Ashwagandha Ingredients & Drug Interactions
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking Ashwagandha against your medications. The heart of this page is the interaction checker and the full interaction report — how this product’s ingredients may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medicines you may be taking.
Around that, we add a pharmacist’s high-level view of the product as a whole — what’s inside, the evidence for its stated use, how transparent the label is, and what safety data exists — so you can see the full picture in one place. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases and the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist — not medical advice — and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy
Ashwagandha is a dietary supplement by InnovaPharm Essentials with 1 active ingredient. Its ingredients are commonly taken for stress and anxiety, sleep problems, fatigue and low energy.Based on those ingredients, 1,372 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are KSM-66. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against Ashwagandha by InnovaPharm Essentials
Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Ashwagandha by InnovaPharm Essentials — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.
AI summaries are generated from our interaction database for education only — always confirm with your pharmacist. How we use AI
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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Ashwagandha by InnovaPharm Essentials
Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.
What’s inside
Full disclosure
InnovaPharm Essentials Ashwagandha is a single-ingredient supplement containing KSM-66, a standardized extract of ashwagandha (also called withania somnifera). This adaptogenic herb has been used traditionally to support relaxation and resilience to stress.
The product comes in capsule form with inactive ingredients including the capsule itself and magnesium stearate as a flow agent.
Does it work?
Moderate evidence
Ashwagandha is rated possibly effective for insomnia, anxiety, stress, and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) based on the evidence we have on file. For bipolar disorder, the evidence isn't established enough to rate.
If you're considering this for one of those conditions, talk with your doctor or pharmacist about whether it fits your situation and how it compares to other options.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
Ashwagandha is generally well tolerated for short-term use in healthy adults, though long-term safety data are limited. The most common mild side effects—diarrhea, upset stomach, nausea, and vomiting—don't typically occur at standard doses.
Drowsiness has been reported. Rare but serious concerns include liver damage and, in one case report, reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome with intracranial bleeding; causation wasn't established.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The safety data advise against ashwagandha during pregnancy due to traditional concerns about miscarriage risk, and there isn't enough safety information to recommend it while breastfeeding. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist if you're pregnant, planning pregnancy, or nursing.
Meds to double-check
Moderate interaction found
Before taking this ashwagandha product, double-check medications that affect the liver (hepatotoxic drugs), blood pressure medications (antihypertensive drugs), sedatives and anti-anxiety drugs including benzodiazepines, diabetes medications, thyroid hormone replacement, immunosuppressants, and any drugs metabolized by the liver enzyme CYP1A2. Use the medication checker below to verify your prescriptions.
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with some supporting evidence behind its ingredients' uses. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
Ashwagandha may help with insomnia, anxiety, or stress if you're otherwise healthy and not on medications that interact with it—especially blood pressure drugs, sedatives, diabetes medications, or thyroid hormone. Before starting, check your exact medications with the tool on this page and talk with your pharmacist or doctor, particularly if you have liver concerns or take multiple medications.
Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI
Assessment coverage: 1 of 1 active ingredient matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Nov 22, 2023.
This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed
General information
Key facts about Ashwagandha, straight from the product label.
| Brand | InnovaPharm Essentials |
|---|---|
| Barcode (UPC) | 636946251611 |
| Net contents | 90 Capsule(s) |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Nov 22, 2023 |
| DSLD ID | 299143 |
| Product type | Botanical |
| Supplement form | Capsule |
| Dietary claims / uses | All Other, Structure/Function |
| Intended target group(s) | Vegan, Vegetarian, Adult (18 - 50 Years), Gluten Free, Dairy Free |
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.
Supplement Facts
The label details for Ashwagandha by InnovaPharm Essentials, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
General Statements
Your Health Is Essential
Instagram Facebook Follow us: @InnovaPharm
Formulation
Vegan + Non-GMO + Gluten Free
Vegan + Non-GMO + Gluten Free
Allergen Information: Not manufactured with wheat, gluten, soy, fish, shellfish, egg, milk or tree nut ingredients.
Patented extract Stress & mood support Promotes resistance to fatigue
Precautions
Warning: This product is only to be consumed by healthy adults, 18 years of age or older. Keep out of reach of children.
If you are pregnant, breast feeding, have known medical conditions (including but not limited to: kidney, liver or heart disease) or are taking prescription or OTC medication(s), consult with your health care practitioner before using this product.
Discontinue use two weeks prior to surgery.
Allergen Information: Not manufactured with wheat, gluten, soy, fish, shellfish, egg, milk or tree nut ingredients. Produced in a GMP facility that processes other ingredients containing these allergens.
FDA Disclaimer Statement
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Brand IP Statement(s)
KSM-66 is a registered trademark of Ixoreal Biomed Inc.
Seals/Symbols
Manufactured In a U.S. GMP Facility
Formula
Ashwagandha Full spectrum root extract KSM-66 Ashwagandha
FDA Statement of Identity
Dietary Supplement
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
1 Capsule With meals Suggested Use: Take 1 capsule at mealtime. Use up to 3 capsules daily.
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
Ashwagandha by InnovaPharm Essentials label
The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.
Label images are published by the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database for the version of this product on file. Always read your actual product label.
View the full label (PDF)The Ingredients in Ashwagandha by InnovaPharm Essentials
This is the 1 active ingredient this product is made of. Select it to open its full monograph.
Serving size1 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container90 Amounts shown are per serving.
KSM-66
Interacts with1,372 drugs
Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb most often taken to help with stress, anxiety, and sleep, and some small studies suggest it may help, though the evid...
KSM-66 monograph & interactionsOther (inactive) ingredients: Capsule, Magnesium Stearate. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
Ashwagandha by InnovaPharm Essentials Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
InnovaPharm Essentials Ashwagandha contains one active ingredient—KSM-66 ashwagandha—that does interact with multiple medication types.
The most serious concern is with drugs that damage the liver (hepatotoxic drugs). Ashwagandha has been linked to cases of acute hepatitis, liver failure, and in rare instances liver transplantation or death, so combining it with other medications that stress the liver requires caution.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
Moderate interactions are documented with several common drug classes. CNS depressants—including benzodiazepines like diazepam and clonazepam—may have their sedative effects increased, raising the risk of excessive drowsiness.
Blood pressure medications (antihypertensive drugs) could work too well together, potentially dropping your blood pressure too low. Diabetes medications may be potentiated, raising the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
Thyroid hormone replacement could have its effects and side effects amplified. Immunosuppressant medications might lose some effectiveness.
A minor interaction also exists with certain medications metabolized by the liver enzyme CYP1A2.
Altogether, these interactions span 1,351 individual medications. Use the medication checker on this page to verify your specific prescriptions before starting.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against Ashwagandha?
Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.
Go to the checkerIngredients driving the most interactions
Individual Drug Interactions
The ingredients in Ashwagandha interact with 1,372 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
1 of the 1 ingredient in Ashwagandha interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. KSM-66
6-mercaptopurinePurinethol
How 6-mercaptopurine interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Hepatotoxic Drugs, Immunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Read the full Ksm-66 + 6-mercaptopurine interactionAbacavir Sulfate, Dolutegravir, LamivudineTriumeq
How Abacavir Sulfate, Dolutegravir, Lamivudine interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Hepatotoxic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Abacavir Sulfate, Dolutegravir, Lamivudine interactionAbacavir, LamivudineEpzicom
How Abacavir, Lamivudine interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Hepatotoxic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Abacavir, Lamivudine interactionAbiraterone
How Abiraterone interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Hepatotoxic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Abiraterone interactionAbiraterone AcetateYonsa, Zytiga
How Abiraterone Acetate interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Hepatotoxic Drugs, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Abiraterone Acetate interactionAbrocitinibCibinqo
How Abrocitinib interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Immunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha might decrease the effects of immunosuppressants.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Abrocitinib interactionAcarboseGlucobay, Prandase, Precose
How Acarbose interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Hepatotoxic Drugs, Antidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Acarbose interactionAcebutololRhotral, Sectral
How Acebutolol interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Antihypertensive Drugs, Hepatotoxic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Acebutolol interactionAcepromazineAtravet
How Acepromazine interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Cns Depressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha might increase the sedative effects of CNS depressants.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Acepromazine interactionAcetaminophenChildren's Tylenol, Children's Tylenol Meltaways, Tylenol, Tylenol Ex Strength
How Acetaminophen interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Hepatotoxic Drugs, Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Acetaminophen interactionAcetaminophen, AspirinGemnisyn
How Acetaminophen, Aspirin interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates, Hepatotoxic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Acetaminophen, Aspirin interactionAcetaminophen, Aspirin, CaffeineExcedrin, Excedrin Extra Strength, Excedrin Migraine
How Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Hepatotoxic Drugs, Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interactionAcetaminophen, Brompheniramine, PhenylpropanolamineDimetapp Cold and Flu
How Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates, Hepatotoxic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interactionAcetaminophen, ButalbitalAxocet, Bancap, Bucet, Butex Forte, Esgic CF, Orbivan CF +5 more
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Hepatotoxic Drugs, Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Acetaminophen, Butalbital interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, CaffeineEsgic, Esgic Plus, Fiogesic, Fioricet, Repan, Tecnal +1 more
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, CodeineEsgic with Codeine, Fioricet w/ Codeine
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates, Hepatotoxic Drugs +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, CodeineBancap w/ Codeine
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Hepatotoxic Drugs, Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine PhosphatePhrenilin #3
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine Phosphate interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Cns Depressants, Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha might increase the sedative effects of CNS depressants.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine Phosphate interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, PhenylephrineHycomine Compound
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, Phenylephrine interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Hepatotoxic Drugs, Cns Depressants +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, Phenylephrine interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, CodeineGesic C15, Gesic C30, Gesic C8, Lenoltec 1, Lenoltec 2, Lenoltec 3 +1 more
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates, Cns Depressants +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, SalicylamideCodalan No.1, Codalan No.2, Codalan No.3
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, Salicylamide interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Cns Depressants +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, Salicylamide interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, DihydrocodeineDHC Plus, Panlor DC, Panlor SS
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates, Hepatotoxic Drugs +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, IsomethepteneMigralam
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Isometheptene interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Hepatotoxic Drugs +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Isometheptene interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, PyrilamineMidol Max Strength Menstrual
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Pyrilamine interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates, Hepatotoxic Drugs +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Pyrilamine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan HbrVicks Formula 44M Cough, Cold & Flu Relief
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan Hbr interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates, Serotonergic Drugs +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan Hbr interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, PhenylephrineColrex
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Hepatotoxic Drugs, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +3 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, DextromethorphanCoricidin II Extra Strength Cold and Flu
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Serotonergic Drugs, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Some animal studies have reported that ashwagandha can enhance serotonergic transmission by altering certain serotonin (5-HT) receptors.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan HydrobromideCoricidin HBP Maximum Strength Flu
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Hepatotoxic Drugs, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PhenylpropanolamineMulti Symptom Cold Relief
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Phenylpropanolamine interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Hepatotoxic Drugs, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Phenylpropanolamine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PseudoephedrineChildren's Tylenol Cold Plus Cough, Tylenol Cold Ex Strength
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Pseudoephedrine interacts with Ashwagandha — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ksm-66Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates, Hepatotoxic Drugs +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
Read the full Ksm-66 + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Pseudoephedrine interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in Ashwagandha with known interactions, here are the types of medications it can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.
KSM-66
Antidiabetes Drugs
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
There is preliminary clinical evidence suggesting that ashwagandha might lower blood glucose levels. Theoretically, ashwagandha might have additive effects when used with antidiabetes drugs and increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Antihypertensive Drugs
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Animal research suggests that ashwagandha might lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Theoretically, ashwagandha might have additive effects when used with antihypertensive drugs and increase the risk of hypotension.
Benzodiazepines
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha might increase the sedative effects of benzodiazepines.
There is preliminary evidence that ashwagandha might have an additive effect with diazepam (Valium) and clonazepam (Klonopin). This may also occur with other benzodiazepines.
Cns Depressants
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha might increase the sedative effects of CNS depressants.
Ashwagandha seems to have sedative effects. Theoretically, this may potentiate the effects of barbiturates, other sedatives, and anxiolytics.
Hepatotoxic Drugs
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Ashwagandha has been linked to cases of acute hepatitis, liver failure, hepatic encephalopathy, autoimmune hepatitis, the need for liver transplantation, and death due to liver failure.
Immunosuppressants
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha might decrease the effects of immunosuppressants.
Ashwagandha has demonstrated immunostimulant effects in humans. Animal research has shown that ashwagandha can attenuate the immunosuppression caused by cyclophosphamide.
Thyroid Hormone
Ashwagandha might increase the effects and adverse effects of thyroid hormone.
Concomitant use of ashwagandha with thyroid hormones may cause additive therapeutic and adverse effects. Preliminary clinical research and animal studies suggest that ashwagandha boosts thyroid hormone synthesis and secretion. In one clinical study, ashwagandha increased triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) levels by 41.5% and 19.6%, respectively, and reduced serum TSH levels by 17.4% from baseline in adults with subclinical hypothyroidism.
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates
Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
In vitro research shows that ashwagandha extract induces CYP1A2 enzymes.
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates
Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
In vitro research shows that ashwagandha extract induces CYP3A4 enzymes.
Serotonergic Drugs
Some animal studies have reported that ashwagandha can enhance serotonergic transmission by altering certain serotonin (5-HT) receptors. However, there is no evidence to suggest that ashwagandha increases the risk of serotonin-related effects, and there have been no published case reports of serotonin syndrome when combined with other serotonergic drugs. Nevertheless, due to the lack of extensive studies on the matter and the fact that ashwagandha appears to affect serotonergic pathways, it would be prudent to exercise caution when combining it with drugs that affect serotonin. [References: - Effects of Withania somnifera (Ashwaga ndha) on Stress and the Stress-Related Neuropsychiatric Disorders Anxiety, Depression, and Insomnia. Curr Neuropharmacol. 2021 Sep 14; 19: 1468–1495. - A Prospective, Randomized Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of Safety and Efficacy of a High-Concentration Full-Spectrum Extract of Ashwagandha Root in Reducing Stress and Anxiety in Adults. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3573577/]
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for Ashwagandha, from the product label.
InnovaPharm Essentials
See all InnovaPharm Essentials products- Name
- InnovaPharm
- Street Address
- 53 E Merrick Rd. #215
- City
- Freeport
- State
- NY
- ZipCode
- 11520
- Web Address
- InnovaPharm.com
Ashwagandha by InnovaPharm Essentials: Common Questions
Does Ashwagandha by InnovaPharm Essentials interact with any medications?
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Where does this information come from?
Can I take this if I'm on blood pressure medication?
Is ashwagandha safe to take long-term?
Can I take this while pregnant or breastfeeding?
What are the common side effects?
Does ashwagandha actually work for anxiety?
Can I take this if I'm on diabetes medication?
Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
Not sure if Ashwagandha is safe with your meds?
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Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.
The Full Monographs Behind Ashwagandha’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
Sources & How We Checked
Ashwagandha's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.
- NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD) — The official product label on file for this supplement.
- Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) — Evidence-graded clinical reference behind the ingredient interaction data.
Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.
The 32 references behind this product’s interaction data
Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.
Ashwagandha 32 references
- McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
- Upton R, ed. Ashwagandha Root (Withania somnifera): Analytical, quality control, and therapuetic monograph. Santa Cruz, CA: American Herbal Pharmacopoeia 2000:1-25.
- Davis L, Kuttan G. Effect of Withania somnifera on cyclophosphamide-induced urotoxicity. Cancer Lett 2000;148:9-17. PubMed
- Davis L, Kuttan G. Suppressive effect of cyclophosphamide-induced toxicity by Withania somnifera extract in mice. J Ethnopharmacol 1998;62:209-14. PubMed
- Mishra LC, Singh BB, Dagenais S. Scientific basis for the therapeutic use of Withania somnifera (ashwagandha): a review. Altern Med Rev 2000;5:334-46. DOI
- Andallu B, Radhika B. Hypoglycemic, diuretic and hypocholesterolemic effect of winter cherry (Withania somnifera, Dunal) root. Indian J Exp Biol 2000;38:607-9.
- Kulkarni RR, Patki PS, Jog VP, et al. Treatment of osteoarthritis with a herbomineral formulation: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study. J Ethnopharmacol 1991;33:91-5. PubMed
- Ahumada F, Aspee F, Wikman G, Hancke J. Withania somnifera exract. Its effects on arterial blood pressure in anaesthetized dogs. Phytother Res 1991;5:111-14.
- Panda S, Kar A. Withania somnifera and Bauhinia purpurea in the regulation of circulating thyroid hormone concentrations in female mice. J Ethnopharmacol 1999;67:233-39. PubMed
- Panda S, Kar A. Changes in thyroid hormone concentrations after administration of ashwagandha root extract to adult male mice. J Pharm Pharmacol 1998;50:1065-68. PubMed
- Sehgal, V. N., Verma, P., and Bhattacharya, S. N. Fixed-drug eruption caused by ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): a widely used Ayurvedic drug. Skinmed. 2012;10(1):48-49.
- Agnihotri AP, Sontakke SD, Thawani VR, Saoji A, Goswami VS. Effects of Withania somnifera in patients of schizophrenia: a randomized, double blind, placebo controlled pilot trial study. Indian J Pharmacol. 2013;45(4):417-8. PubMed
- Biswal BM, Sulaiman SA, Ismail HC, Zakaria H, Musa KI. Effect of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) on the development of chemotherapy-induced fatigue and quality of life in breast cancer patients. Integr Cancer Ther. 2013;12(4):312-22.
- Sharma AK, Basu I, Singh S. Efficacy and safety of Ashwagandha root extract in subclinical hypothyroid patients: a double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled trial. J Altern Complement Med. 2018 Mar;24(3):243-248. PubMed
- Durg S, Bavage S, Shivaram SB. Withania somnifera (Indian ginseng) in diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis of scientific evidence from experimental research to clinical application. Phytother Res. 2020;34(5):1041-1059.
- Björnsson HK, Björnsson ES, Avula B, et al. Ashwagandha-induced liver injury: A case series from Iceland and the US Drug-Induced Liver Injury Network. Liver Int. 2020;40(4):825-829. PubMed
- Tharakan A, Shukla H, Benny IR, Tharakan M, George L, Koshy S. Immunomodulatory Effect of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) Extract-A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo Controlled Trial with an Open Label Extension on Healthy Participants. J Clin Med 2021;1 PubMed
- Ireland PJ, Hardy T, Burt AD, Donnelly MC. Drug-induced hepatocellular injury due to herbal supplement ashwagandha. J R Coll Physicians Edinb. 2021;51(4):363-365. PubMed
- Kamal HI, Patel K, Brdak A, Heffernan J, Ahmad N. Ashwagandha as a unique cause of thyrotoxicosis presenting with supraventricular tachycardia. Cureus. 2022 Mar 25;14(3):e23494. PubMed
- Suryawanshi G, Abdallah M, Thomson M, Desai N, Chauhan A, Lim N. Ashwagandha-Associated Acute Liver Failure Requiring Liver Transplantation. Am J Ther 2023;30(1):e80-e83. PubMed
- Pusec CM, Wolsky R, Llerena C, Sura P. A Case of Supplement-Induced Hepatitis. Cureus 2022;14(10):e30433. PubMed
- Ajgaonkar A, Jain M, Debnath K. Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract for Improvement of Sexual Health in Healthy Women: A Prospective, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study. Cureus 2022;14(10):e30787. PubMed
- Haron MH, Dale O, Martin K, et al. Evaluation of the Herb-Drug Interaction Potential of Commonly Used Botanicals on the US Market with Regard to PXR- and AhR-Mediated Influences on CYP3A4 and CYP1A2. J Diet Suppl 2022. PubMed
- Lubarska M, Halasinski P, Hryhorowicz S, et al. Liver Dangers of Herbal Products: A Case Report of Ashwagandha-Induced Liver Injury. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023;20(5):3921. PubMed
- Tóth M, Benedek AE, Longerich T, Seitz HK. Ashwagandha-induced acute liver injury: A case report. Clin Case Rep 2023;11(3):e7078.
- Bokan G, Glamocanin T, Mavija Z, et al. Herb-Induced Liver Injury by Ayurvedic Ashwagandha as Assessed for Causality by the Updated RUCAM: An Emerging Cause. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023;16(8):1129. PubMed
- Patel PA, Sanborn E, Then R, Williams DM. Recurrent Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome: A Report of Two Cases. Cureus 2023;15(8):e42992. PubMed
- Majeed M, Nagabhushanam K, Murali A, Vishwanathan DT, Mamidala RV, Mundkur L. A Standardized Withania somniferra (Linn.) Root Extract with Piperine Alleviates the Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression by Increasing Serotonin Levels: A Double-Blind, Randomize
- Philips CA, Valsan A, Theruvath AH, et al. Ashwagandha-induced liver injury-A case series from India and literature review. Hepatol Commun 2023;7(10):e0270. PubMed
- Hayashi M, Hamada H, Azuma SI, Hayashi K. Painless Thyroiditis by Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha). Cureus 2024;16(3):e55352. PubMed
- Vazirani S, Kothari A, Fujimoto J, Gomez M. Supplements Are Not a Synonym for Safe: Suspected Liver Injury From Ashwagandha. Fed Pract 2023;40(9):315-319. PubMed
- Patel M, Newell R, Hillier M, Ramalingam R. Herbal remedies as a potential cause of hypoadrenalism. Br J Hosp Med (Lond) 2024;85(6):1-4. PubMed
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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.
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