According to Lim En Ni, unregulated consumption of this cough mixture can be harmful especially to pregnant women and young children.

This is because Pei Pa Koa contains licorice (甘草) that can bring about the following health issues.

Fluid Retention and Hypertension

Licorice contains glycyrrhizin, a substance that resembles the structure of the hormone aldosterone and, when it is in the body, mimics the function of aldosterone. As a result, high levels of glycyrrhizin can lead to fluid retention, hypertension, and an imbalance of electrolytes in the body.

Blood Pressure Issues

Glycyrrhizin can cause an increase in blood pressure by reducing potassium levels and increasing sodium levels in the body. In pregnant women, high blood pressure can lead to complications such as preeclampsia.

Preterm Labour Risk

Lim En Ni points out that some studies suggest that consuming large amounts of licorice during pregnancy may increase the risk of preterm labour by increasing production of prostaglandin, a hormone-like compound that is involved in triggering labour.

Baby Developmental Issues

There is evidence suggesting that excessive licorice consumption during pregnancy might affect the cognitive development of the child. It has been associated with lower intelligence and behavioral problems in children.