Cryptic crossword clue
Respiratory problem a normal one — all going back to drink 12

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 12 letter word SARSAPARILLA

I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
S
A
R
S
A
P
A
R
I
L
L
A

Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "drink" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case drink = sarsaparilla.
The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.
This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.

What does SARSAPARILLA mean?

SARSAPARILLA noun
  1. Any of various tropical (Central and South) American vines of the genus Smilax, such as Smilax regelii, which have fragrant roots.
  2. The dried roots of these plants, or a flavoring material extracted from these roots.
  3. A beverage (soft drink) flavored with this root, such as root beer.
  4. Any of several North American plants, of the genus Aralia, having umbels and small white flowers.

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