Ashwagandha Extract Ingredients & Drug Interactions
by GNC Herbal Plus Standardized
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking Ashwagandha Extract 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 Extract is a dietary supplement by GNC Herbal Plus Standardized 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 Ashwagandha Root Extract. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against Ashwagandha Extract by GNC Herbal Plus Standardized
Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Ashwagandha Extract by GNC Herbal Plus Standardized — 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 Extract by GNC Herbal Plus Standardized
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
This product contains one active ingredient: ashwagandha root extract. Ashwagandha is an herb traditionally used to help with stress, anxiety, and sleep.
The capsule itself is made of vegetable cellulose, with cellulose, maltodextrin, and dicalcium phosphate added as inactive ingredients to hold everything together.
Does it work?
Moderate evidence
The evidence supports ashwagandha as possibly effective for insomnia, anxiety, stress, and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The data we hold does not establish reliable evidence for bipolar disorder.
If you're considering this for one of those first four uses, the research is promising but not conclusive — talk with your pharmacist about whether it makes sense for your situation.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
Ashwagandha is generally well tolerated in the short term in healthy adults, though long-term safety data are limited. The most common side effects are mild — diarrhea, stomach upset, nausea, and vomiting — but these don't happen often at typical doses.
Rare serious concerns include liver damage and a reversible brain blood vessel issue (reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome) reported in isolated cases. Drowsiness is also possible.
Based on traditional use, ashwagandha is considered likely unsafe in pregnancy due to a theoretical risk of miscarriage — the safety data advise against it. There isn't enough information to know if it's safe while breastfeeding, so avoid it then too.
Talk with your doctor or pharmacist if you're pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Meds to double-check
Moderate interaction found
Check with your pharmacist if you take immunosuppressants, CNS depressants (sedatives, sleeping pills), benzodiazepines (like Valium or Klonopin), blood pressure medications, diabetes medications, thyroid hormones, drugs that strain the liver, or any drug metabolized by the CYP1A2 enzyme.
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, stress, and generalized anxiety disorder. Before you take it, check your medications — especially if you take sedatives, blood pressure drugs, diabetes medications, thyroid hormones, immunosuppressants, or anything hard on the liver.
Avoid it in pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Your pharmacist can help you figure out if it's right for you.
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 Feb 25, 2013.
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 Extract, straight from the product label.
| Brand | GNC Herbal Plus Standardized |
|---|---|
| Barcode (UPC) | 048107108540 |
| Net contents | 100 Vegetarian Capsule(s) |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Feb 25, 2013 |
| DSLD ID | 18343 |
| Product type | Botanical |
| Supplement form | Capsule |
| Dietary claims / uses | All Other, Structure/Function |
| Intended target group(s) | Adult (18 - 50 Years), Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Sugar 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 Extract by GNC Herbal Plus Standardized, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Ashwagandha Root Extract | 470 mg | -- |
Other ingredients: Vegetable Cellulose Capsule, Cellulose, Maltodextrin, Dicalcium Phosphate
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.
Brand IP Statement(s)
GNC HERBAL PLUS(R) STANDARDIZED
FDA Statement of Identity
HERBAL SUPPLEMENT
General Statements
NEW
CODE 187611 IMG
Conforms to USP <2091> for weight. Meets USP <2040> disintegration.
ACTUAL SIZE
Promotes General Well-Being* Standardized Extract
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Directions: As a dietary supplement, take one capsule daily.
Precautions
WARNING: Consult your physician prior to using this product if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition.
KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.
Discontinue use two weeks prior to surgery.
Formula
No Sugar, No Artificial Colors, No Artificial Flavors, Sodium Free, No Wheat, No Gluten, No Soy, No Dairy, Yeast Free.
470 mg
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place.
FDA Disclaimer Statement
*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
Ashwagandha Extract by GNC Herbal Plus Standardized 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 Extract by GNC Herbal Plus Standardized
This is the 1 active ingredient this product is made of. Select it to open its full monograph.
Serving size1 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Amounts shown are per serving.
Ashwagandha Root Extract
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...
Ashwagandha Root Extract monograph & interactionsOther (inactive) ingredients: Vegetable Cellulose Capsule, Cellulose, Maltodextrin, Dicalcium Phosphate. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
Ashwagandha Extract by GNC Herbal Plus Standardized Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
GNC Herbal Plus Standardized Ashwagandha Extract has documented interactions with a significant number of medications.
The most serious concern is with drugs that suppress the immune system (immunosuppressants): ashwagandha appears to boost immune function, which could reduce how well these drugs work — a Moderate severity issue.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
You'll also want to check before combining this with sedating medications (CNS depressants, benzodiazepines like Valium or Klonopin), blood pressure medications (antihypertensive drugs), diabetes medications, or thyroid hormone replacements. Ashwagandha may add to the sedative effect of calming drugs, lower your blood pressure further, increase the risk of low blood sugar, and amplify thyroid hormone effects — all rated Moderate.
There's also a Moderate concern with drugs that are hard on the liver (hepatotoxic drugs): ashwagandha has been linked in rare cases to serious liver damage. Finally, ashwagandha may decrease levels of a smaller group of drugs processed through the enzyme CYP1A2 — a Minor interaction.
Altogether, these interactions span 1,351 individual medications. Run your exact medications through the checker on this page before you start.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against Ashwagandha Extract?
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 Extract interact with 1,372 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
1 of the 1 ingredient in Ashwagandha Extract interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Ashwagandha Root Extract
6-mercaptopurinePurinethol
How 6-mercaptopurine interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractHepatotoxic Drugs, Immunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Read the full Ashwagandha Root Extract + 6-mercaptopurine interactionAbacavir Sulfate, Dolutegravir, LamivudineTriumeq
How Abacavir Sulfate, Dolutegravir, Lamivudine interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractHepatotoxic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Read the full Ashwagandha Root Extract + Abacavir Sulfate, Dolutegravir, Lamivudine interactionAbacavir, LamivudineEpzicom
How Abacavir, Lamivudine interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractHepatotoxic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Read the full Ashwagandha Root Extract + Abacavir, Lamivudine interactionAbiraterone
How Abiraterone interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Hepatotoxic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Ashwagandha Root Extract + Abiraterone interactionAbiraterone AcetateYonsa, Zytiga
How Abiraterone Acetate interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractHepatotoxic 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 Ashwagandha Root Extract + Abiraterone Acetate interactionAbrocitinibCibinqo
How Abrocitinib interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha might decrease the effects of immunosuppressants.
Read the full Ashwagandha Root Extract + Abrocitinib interactionAcarboseGlucobay, Prandase, Precose
How Acarbose interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractHepatotoxic Drugs, Antidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Read the full Ashwagandha Root Extract + Acarbose interactionAcebutololRhotral, Sectral
How Acebutolol interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs, Hepatotoxic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Ashwagandha Root Extract + Acebutolol interactionAcepromazineAtravet
How Acepromazine interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractCns Depressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha might increase the sedative effects of CNS depressants.
Read the full Ashwagandha Root Extract + Acepromazine interactionAcetaminophenChildren's Tylenol, Children's Tylenol Meltaways, Tylenol, Tylenol Ex Strength
How Acetaminophen interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractHepatotoxic 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 Ashwagandha Root Extract + Acetaminophen interactionAcetaminophen, AspirinGemnisyn
How Acetaminophen, Aspirin interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates, Hepatotoxic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
Read the full Ashwagandha Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Aspirin interactionAcetaminophen, Aspirin, CaffeineExcedrin, Excedrin Extra Strength, Excedrin Migraine
How Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractHepatotoxic 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 Ashwagandha Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interactionAcetaminophen, Brompheniramine, PhenylpropanolamineDimetapp Cold and Flu
How Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates, Hepatotoxic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
Read the full Ashwagandha Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interactionAcetaminophen, ButalbitalAxocet, Bancap, Bucet, Butex Forte, Esgic CF, Orbivan CF +5 more
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractHepatotoxic 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 Ashwagandha Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Butalbital interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, CaffeineEsgic, Esgic Plus, Fiogesic, Fioricet, Repan, Tecnal +1 more
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractCytochrome 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 Ashwagandha Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, CodeineEsgic with Codeine, Fioricet w/ Codeine
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractCytochrome 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 Ashwagandha Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, CodeineBancap w/ Codeine
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractHepatotoxic 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 Ashwagandha Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine PhosphatePhrenilin #3
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine Phosphate interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractCns Depressants, Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha might increase the sedative effects of CNS depressants.
Read the full Ashwagandha Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine Phosphate interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, PhenylephrineHycomine Compound
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, Phenylephrine interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractHepatotoxic Drugs, Cns Depressants +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Read the full Ashwagandha Root Extract + 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 Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractCytochrome 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 Ashwagandha Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, SalicylamideCodalan No.1, Codalan No.2, Codalan No.3
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, Salicylamide interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractCytochrome 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 Ashwagandha Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, Salicylamide interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, DihydrocodeineDHC Plus, Panlor DC, Panlor SS
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractCytochrome 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 Ashwagandha Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, IsomethepteneMigralam
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Isometheptene interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractCytochrome 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 Ashwagandha Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Isometheptene interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, PyrilamineMidol Max Strength Menstrual
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Pyrilamine interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractCytochrome 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 Ashwagandha Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Pyrilamine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan HbrVicks Formula 44M Cough, Cold & Flu Relief
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan Hbr interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractCytochrome 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 Ashwagandha Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan Hbr interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, PhenylephrineColrex
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractHepatotoxic 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 Ashwagandha Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, DextromethorphanCoricidin II Extra Strength Cold and Flu
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractSerotonergic 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 Ashwagandha Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan HydrobromideCoricidin HBP Maximum Strength Flu
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractHepatotoxic 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 Ashwagandha Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PhenylpropanolamineMulti Symptom Cold Relief
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Phenylpropanolamine interacts with Ashwagandha Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractHepatotoxic 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 Ashwagandha Root Extract + 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 Extract — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Root ExtractCytochrome 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 Ashwagandha Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Pseudoephedrine interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in Ashwagandha Extract 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.
Ashwagandha Root Extract
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 Extract, from the product label.
GNC Herbal Plus Standardized
See all GNC Herbal Plus Standardized products- Phone Number
- 1-888-462-2548
Ashwagandha Extract by GNC Herbal Plus Standardized: Common Questions
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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 Extract’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
Sources & How We Checked
Ashwagandha Extract'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
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