Objective: To optimize extraction process of Shihu Qingyan lozenges by Box-Behnken design-response surface methodology. Method: HPLC was employed to determine the content of dendrophnol with detection wavelength at 278 nm and mobile phase of acetonitrile(A)-0.5% formic acid(B) for gradient elution(0-20 min

27% A;20-30 min

27% -40% A;30-45 min

40% -65% A;45-50 min

65% -27% A).On the basis of single factor tests

a three-factor and three-level Box-Behnken experimental design was employed to investigate effects of extraction time

solid-liquid ratio and soaking time on composite score of extracting amount of dendrophnol and dry extract rate. Result: Optimum process conditions were as follows:soaked 35 min with 11 times the amount of water

extracted thrice for 1 h each time;extracting amount of dendrophnol was 0.189 6 mg·g-1 and dry extract rate was 41.27%. Conclusion: This optimized extraction technology is practical and rational by Box-Behnken design-response surface methodology and overall desirability

it provides a reference for application of Shihu Qingyan lozenges.