Ashwagandha - Wellbutrin XL (Bupropion) Interaction
Herbal: Ashwagandha
Also Known As: Withania somnifera, Ajagandha, Amangura, Asan, Asana, Asgand, Asgandh, Asgandha, Ashagandha, Ashvagandha, Ashwaganda, Ashwanga, Asoda, Asundha, Aswagandha, Avarada, Ayurvedic Ginseng, Cerise d'Hiver, Clustered Wintercherry, Ghoda Asoda
Drug: Bupropion
Brand names:
Wellbutrin, Wellbutrin SR, Zyban, Wellbutrin XL, Aplenzin, Forfivo XL
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Apr 13, 2025
Interaction Details
There were no interactions found between Bupropion and Ashwagandha. This does not mean the potential for an interaction does not exist, however. There is often a lack of studies and data surrounding traditional medicine, especially concerning drug interactions, so it is important to always consult your provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
Pharmacist Analysis
The use of ashwagandha may result in potential interactions with certain classes of medication due to its known effects. However, these interactions are generally considered to be of minimal clinical significance.
Nevertheless, it is recommended to exercise caution when using ashwagandha in conjunction with the following classes of drugs:
- Antidiabetes
- Antihypertensives
- Benzodiazepines
- CNS Depressants
- Immunosuppressant
- Thyroid Hormones
Although ashwagandha can typically be used safely in combination with these drug classes, it is crucial to inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking to ensure proper monitoring. Based on available information, ashwagandha does not appear to cause any adverse interactions with the specific drug mentioned in this inquiry.
This lack of interaction between ashwagandha and Wellbutrin (bupropion) is supported by knowledge of the known mechanisms of action for ashwagandha and bupropion, as well as published clinical data.
There is no evidence to suggest an interaction and some preliminary studies, although small, even note that ashwagandha may have some antidepressant properties, and thus may be an effective adjunctive therapy in some individuals, but more studies are needed to better understand the potential benefits and safety of combined therapy.
Ashwagandha Overview
Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is a herb commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine. It is native to India, and is used to treat a variety of conditions, including stress, anxiety, and insomnia. Some studies have also suggested that ashwagandha may have potential health benefits for conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. However, more research is needed. Ashwagandha is often referred to as an adaptogenic herb, which is theorized to help the body to adapt to stress.
Bupropion Overview
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Bupropion (Aplenzin, Wellbutrin, Wellbutrin SR, Wellbutrin XL) is used to treat depression. Bupropion (Aplenzin, Wellbutrin XL) is also used to treat seasonal affective disorder (SAD; episodes of depression that occur at the same time each year [usually in the fall and winter but rarely may occur in the spring or summer months]). Bupropion (Zyban) is used to help people stop smoking. Bupropion is in a class of medications called antidepressants. It works by increasing certain types of activity in the brain.
Ashwagandha - More Interactions
Ashwagandha interacts with 1326 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
Ask A Pharmacist About Your Herbal Questions!
Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
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