Interactions on record — worth a quick check against your medications. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Clear Thinking Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Nature's Way

Capsule Category: Other Combinations
Most serious interaction: Moderate
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Clear Thinking is a dietary supplement by Nature's Way with 3 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for memory and cognitive support, anxiety and stress, adhd symptoms.Based on those ingredients, 1,495 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Ashwagandha extract, Bacopa extract. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Clear Thinking by Nature's Way

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.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

What’s inside

Full disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Full

Every active ingredient lists its own amount on the label.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 3 of its 3 active ingredients.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

Clear Thinking contains three active ingredients. Bacopa extract is a traditional plant used to support cognition and memory.

Ashwagandha extract is an adaptogenic herb traditionally used for stress and sleep support. Citicoline (Cognizin brand) is a naturally occurring compound involved in brain cell membrane function.

The capsule also contains inactive ingredients including cellulose, plant-derived capsule material, magnesium stearate, and silica.

Does it work?

Moderate evidence
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed
Moderate

Some clinical evidence supports this product's ingredients for its stated purpose, but it isn't conclusive.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: Brain health and cognitive function.
  • We looked for evidence on: Age-related cognitive decline, Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Cognitive function, Cognitive impairment, Stress, Anxiety — and 4 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Ashwagandha is rated "Possibly Effective" for Anxiety (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Ashwagandha is rated "Possibly Effective" for Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), Stress.
  • Also on file: Citicoline is rated "Possibly Effective" for Age-related cognitive decline.

The evidence for this product's purposes is limited. Bacopa's effectiveness for Alzheimer disease, cognitive function, cognitive impairment, ADHD, sexual dysfunction, and back pain is not established in the data we hold.

Ashwagandha is possibly effective for insomnia, anxiety, stress, and generalized anxiety disorder, though evidence quality varies. Citicoline is possibly effective for age-related cognitive decline and glaucoma, but evidence for Alzheimer disease and traumatic brain injury is insufficient, and it appears ineffective for stroke.

Overall, robust clinical support for the product as a whole is lacking.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Bacopa Ashwagandha Citicoline

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

Adverse-effect, pregnancy, and general safety data are on file for most of these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 3 of the 3 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 3 of 3.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 3 of 3.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Bacopa is generally well tolerated in studies, though long-term safety data are limited. Common side effects include abdominal cramps, diarrhea, nausea, headache, and dry mouth; gastrointestinal effects occur in 12% to 30% of users.

Drowsiness, insomnia, and vivid dreams have also been reported. Ashwagandha is generally well tolerated short-term at typical doses, but serious liver problems (hepatitis, liver failure, death) have been rarely reported.

Drowsiness and gastrointestinal upset are common; one case of brain vessel constriction with bleeding has been documented. Citicoline is generally well tolerated; common side effects include abdominal pain, back pain, headache, insomnia, nausea, and blurred vision.

Safety data during pregnancy and breastfeeding are insufficient for all three ingredients — the facts advise against use in both situations.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Bacopa Ashwagandha Citicoline

Meds to double-check

Moderate interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Moderate identified

The most serious documented interaction for these ingredients is Moderate. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 2 of the 3 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Bacopa, Ashwagandha.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: immunosuppressants / transplant drugs; diabetes medications.
  • For scale: 1,496 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Check with your pharmacist or doctor before taking this if you use: liver enzyme substrates (drugs metabolized by CYP1A2, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, or CYP3A4 pathways), blood pressure medications, blood sugar medications, sedatives or benzodiazepines, thyroid hormone, drugs that suppress your immune system, drugs toxic to the liver, anticholinergic drugs, cholinergic drugs, or cevimeline (Evoxac). The interactions documented span liver enzyme activity, blood pressure and blood sugar control, and nervous system sedation.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with some supporting evidence for its stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

This product may help with stress, sleep, or cognitive function depending on which ingredient's claims you value, but evidence is limited and incomplete. If you take medications metabolized by liver enzymes, manage blood pressure or blood sugar, take benzodiazepines or other sedatives, take thyroid medication, or take any drug that suppresses your immune system or affects your liver, you need to check this product against your medications first.

Talk to your pharmacist or doctor before starting — the interaction risks are real.

Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI

Assessment coverage: 3 of 3 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Apr 22, 2021.

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

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Clear Thinking, straight from the product label.

Brand Nature's Way
Barcode (UPC) 033674136904
Net contents 40 Capsule(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Apr 22, 2021
DSLD ID 246236
Product type Other Combinations
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years), Women (not pregnant or lactating), Gluten Free, Dairy Free
From the label
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 Clear Thinking by Nature's Way, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
1 Capsule(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
1 Capsule(s)
UPC/BARCODE
033674136904
IngredientAmount% DV
Bacopa extract150 mg--
Ashwagandha extract125 mg--
Citicoline Cognizin brand125 mg--

Other ingredients: Cellulose, plant-derived Capsule, Magnesium Stearate, Silica

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
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.
Formulation

Brain health formula Take your mental performance to the next level with Clear Thinking. This unique stack of nootropic ingredients is designed to keep you sharp by improving cognitive function so you can conquer your day.

Cognitive performance Reduces stress & improves cognitive performance

Gluten free. No yeast-derived ingredients, wheat, corn, soy, dairy, or artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

Formula

We combined clinically studied Sensoril Ashwagandha and Cognizin Citicoline with Bacopa for a blend you can trust without a laundry list of ingredients.

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Recommendation: Adults take 1 capsule twice daily, preferably with food.

Precautions

Warning: Do not take if you are pregnant or nursing. If you have diabetes or if you are taking any medications, consult a healthcare professional before use.

Keep out of reach of children.

Safety sealed with inner seal. Do not use if seal is broken or missing.

Storage

Keep bottle tightly closed. Store at room temperature. Avoid excessive heat and direct sunlight.

Brand IP Statement(s)

Sensoril is a registered trademark of Natreon, Inc. and is protected under U.S. Patent No. 7,318,938. Cognizin is a registered trademark of Kyowa Hakko Bio Co., Ltd. 2021 Nature's Way Brands, LLC

General Statements

Bottles made from 97% post-consumer recycled plastic

Seals/Symbols

Quality Global Sourcing Bottled & Tested In the USA

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.

See for yourself

Clear Thinking by Nature's Way label

The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Clear Thinking by Nature's Way

These are the 3 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Amounts shown are per serving.

Most supplement products combine several ingredients, and a medication can interact with the product through any one of them. Each ingredient below shows whether it has known drug interactions.

Bacopa extract

Interacts with
930 drugs
150 mg per serving Form: Bacosides

Bacopa is an Ayurvedic herb most often used for memory and thinking. Some small studies suggest it may modestly help memory when taken regularly for s...

Bacopa extract monograph & interactions

Ashwagandha extract

Interacts with
1,372 drugs
125 mg per serving

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 extract monograph & interactions

Citicoline Cognizin brand

No known
interactions
125 mg per serving

Citicoline is a naturally occurring compound involved in making brain cell membranes and the messenger chemical acetylcholine. It is popularly taken f...

Citicoline Cognizin brand monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Cellulose, Plant-derived Capsule, Magnesium Stearate, Silica. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Clear Thinking by Nature's Way Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Clear Thinking?

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 checker
1,495Drugs
1,449 Moderate 46 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Clear Thinking with known interactions, here are the types of medications they can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

Ashwagandha extract10 drug types · 1,372 drugs

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.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
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.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
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.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
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.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
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.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
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.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
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.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
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.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
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.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
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/]

Likelihood Possible Evidence C

Bacopa extract8 drug types · 930 drugs

Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use might decrease the effectiveness of both agents.
Bacopa seems to inhibit acetylcholinesterase and might increase acetylcholine levels, which could counteract the effects of anticholinergic drugs. Similarly, anticholinergic drugs might counteract the cholinergic effects of bacopa.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cevimeline (Evoxac)

Theoretically, bacopa might increase the effects and adverse effects of cevimeline.
In one case, a 58-year-old female taking cevimeline long-term for Sjogren syndrome experienced hyperhidrosis, malaise, nausea, and tachycardia shortly after taking a single dose of bacopa. Symptoms resolved after two days. Cevimeline is metabolized by cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2D6 and CYP3A4, and researchers theorize that bacopa may have inhibited these isoenzymes. However, it is unclear if bacopa causes clinically significant inhibition of either CYP2D6 or CYP3A4.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of bacopa with other cholinergic drugs might have additive effects.
Bacopa seems to inhibit acetylcholinesterase and might increase acetylcholine levels. Theoretically, this could result in additive cholinergic effects when used with cholinergic drugs.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates

Theoretically, bacopa might increase the levels and adverse effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
Research on the effects of bacopa extracts on CYP1A2 enzymes is conflicting. Some in vitro evidence shows that bacopa extract can moderately and non-competitively inhibit CYP1A2, while other in vitro evidence suggests that any effect is unlikely to be clinically significant.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2C19 (Cyp2C19) Substrates

Theoretically, bacopa might increase the levels and adverse effects of CYP2C19 substrates.
In vitro evidence suggests that bacopa extract can moderately and non-competitively inhibit CYP2C19 enzymes. It is not known whether this is clinically significant.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2C9 (Cyp2C9) Substrates

Theoretically, bacopa might increase the levels and adverse effects of CYP2C9 substrates.
Research on the effect of bacopa extracts on CYP2C9 enzymes is conflicting. Some in vitro evidence suggests that bacopa extract can moderately and non-competitively inhibit CYP2C9, while other in vitro evidence suggests that any effect is unlikely to be clinically significant.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates

Theoretically, bacopa might increase the levels and adverse effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Research on the effects of bacopa extracts on CYP3A4 enzymes is conflicting. Some in vitro evidence suggests that bacopa extract can moderately and competitively inhibit CYP3A4, while other in vitro evidence suggests that any effect is unlikely to be clinically significant.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Thyroid Hormone

Theoretically, bacopa might have additive effects when used with thyroid hormone.
Animal research suggests that bacopa increases thyroxine (T4) levels in mice by about 40%.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Clear Thinking, from the product label.

Nature's Way

See all Nature's Way products
Name
Nature's Way Brands, LLC
City
Green Bay
State
WI
ZipCode
54311
Phone Number
1-800-962-8873
Web Address
naturesway.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Clear Thinking by Nature's Way: Common Questions

Does Clear Thinking by Nature's Way interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Clear Thinking has a known interaction with 1,495 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Clear Thinking contains 3 active ingredients, and an interaction can come from any of them. We check every ingredient, combine the results into one list per medication, and show which ingredient and mechanism is responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Does this work for memory and brain fog?
The evidence isn't established in our data for any of the three ingredients to clearly support memory, brain fog, or general cognitive function. Ashwagandha is possibly effective for anxiety and stress, which may indirectly affect thinking, but robust evidence for cognition itself is lacking.
Is it safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
No. The safety data advise against all three ingredients during pregnancy and breastfeeding. There isn't enough information to know they're safe, so talk with your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice.
What are the most common side effects?
Bacopa and ashwagandha can cause gastrointestinal upset (nausea, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort), headache, and drowsiness. Citicoline may cause abdominal pain, back pain, headache, insomnia, and nausea. These are generally mild, but gastrointestinal effects with bacopa occur in roughly one in five to one in three users.
Can I take this if I'm on thyroid medication?
Both bacopa and ashwagandha have documented interactions with thyroid hormone — theoretically they may amplify its effects and cause adverse effects. Do not take this without checking with your pharmacist or doctor first.
What is ashwagandha for in this product?
Ashwagandha is included for its traditional use to support stress and sleep. It's possibly effective for insomnia, anxiety, stress, and generalized anxiety disorder based on preliminary evidence.
What is citicoline and why is it in here?
Citicoline (Cognizin brand) is a natural compound that helps brain cell membranes function. It's possibly effective for age-related cognitive decline and glaucoma, though evidence for broader "brain health" is not established in our data.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

Not sure if Clear Thinking is safe with your meds?

Our pharmacists answer your medication & supplement questions — free.

Ask a pharmacist

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.

Clear Thinking label
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Clear Thinking'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.

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 55 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.

Bacopa 12 references
  1. Stough C, Lloyd J, Clarke J, et al. The chronic effects of an extract of Bacopa monniera (Brahmi) on cognitive function in healthy human subjects. Psychopharmacology 2001;156:481-4..
  2. Yadav SK, Jain AK, Tripathi SN, Gupta JP. Irritable bowel syndrome: therapeutic evaluation of indigenous drugs. Indian J Med Res 1989;90:496-503..
  3. Morgan A, Stevens J. Does Bacopa monnieri improve memory performance in older persons? Results of a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial. J Altern Complement Med 2010;16:753-9.
  4. Kar, A., Panda, S., and Bharti, S. Relative efficacy of three medicinal plant extracts in the alteration of thyroid hormone concentrations in male mice. J Ethnopharmacol. 2002;81(2):281-285. PubMed
  5. Mukherjee, G. D. and Dey, C. D. Clinical trial on Brahmi. I. J.Exp.Med.Sci. 1966;10(1):5-11.
  6. Kar A, Pandit S, Mukherjee K, Bahadur S, Mukherjee PK. Safety assessment of selected medicinal food plants used in Ayurveda through CYP450 enzyme inhibition study. J Sci Food Agric 2017;97(1):333-40. doi: 10.1002/jsfa.7739. PubMed
  7. Kongkeaw C, Dilokthornsakul P, Thanarangsarit P, et al. Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials on cognitive effects of Bacopa monnieri extract. J Ethnopharmacol 2014;151(1):528-35. PubMed
  8. Ramasamy S, Kiew LV, Chung LY. Inhibition of human cytochrome P450 enzymes by Bacopa monnieri standardized extract and constituents. Molecules 2014;19(2):2588-601. PubMed
  9. Prabhakar S, Vishnu VY, Modi M, et al. Efficacy of Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi) and donepezil in Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment: a randomized double-blind parallel phase 2b study. Ann Indian Acad Neurol 2020;23(6):767-73. PubMed
  10. Acquarulo B, Tandon P, Macica CM. Suspected cholinergic toxicity due to cevimeline hydrochloride and Bacopa monnieri interaction: a case report. J Med Case Rep 2022;16(1):253. PubMed
  11. Keegan AP, Stough C, Paris D, et al. Bacopa monnieri supplementation has no effect on serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels but beneficially modulates nuclear factor kappa B and cyclic AMP response element-binding protein levels in healthy elderl
  12. Yaworski AM, Blyumin M, Chang T, Mammen AL, Greene M. Necrotizing myopathy with elevated anti-HMGCR antibodies following exposure to the supplement Bacopa. Muscle Nerve 2023;67(2):E1-E3.

See these in context on the Bacopa monograph →

Ashwagandha 32 references
  1. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
  2. Upton R, ed. Ashwagandha Root (Withania somnifera): Analytical, quality control, and therapuetic monograph. Santa Cruz, CA: American Herbal Pharmacopoeia 2000:1-25.
  3. Davis L, Kuttan G. Effect of Withania somnifera on cyclophosphamide-induced urotoxicity. Cancer Lett 2000;148:9-17. PubMed
  4. Davis L, Kuttan G. Suppressive effect of cyclophosphamide-induced toxicity by Withania somnifera extract in mice. J Ethnopharmacol 1998;62:209-14. PubMed
  5. 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
  6. Andallu B, Radhika B. Hypoglycemic, diuretic and hypocholesterolemic effect of winter cherry (Withania somnifera, Dunal) root. Indian J Exp Biol 2000;38:607-9.
  7. 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
  8. 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.
  9. 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
  10. 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
  11. 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.
  12. 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
  13. 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.
  14. 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
  15. 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.
  16. 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
  17. 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
  18. 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
  19. 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
  20. 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
  21. Pusec CM, Wolsky R, Llerena C, Sura P. A Case of Supplement-Induced Hepatitis. Cureus 2022;14(10):e30433. PubMed
  22. 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
  23. 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
  24. 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
  25. Tóth M, Benedek AE, Longerich T, Seitz HK. Ashwagandha-induced acute liver injury: A case report. Clin Case Rep 2023;11(3):e7078.
  26. 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
  27. Patel PA, Sanborn E, Then R, Williams DM. Recurrent Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome: A Report of Two Cases. Cureus 2023;15(8):e42992. PubMed
  28. 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
  29. 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
  30. Hayashi M, Hamada H, Azuma SI, Hayashi K. Painless Thyroiditis by Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha). Cureus 2024;16(3):e55352. PubMed
  31. 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
  32. 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

See these in context on the Ashwagandha monograph →

Citicoline 11 references
  1. Spiers PA, Myers D, Hochanadel GS, et al. Citicoline improves verbal memory in aging. Arch Neurol 1996;53:441-8. PubMed
  2. Fioravanti M, Yanagi M. Cytidinediphosphocholine (CDP-choline) for cognitive and behavioural disturbances associated with chronic cerebral disorders in the elderly. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2005;(2):CD000269. PubMed
  3. Conant R, Schauss AG. Therapeutic applications of citicoline for stroke and cognitive function in the elderly: A review of the literature. Altern Med Rev 2004;9:17-31.
  4. Warach, S., Pettigrew, L. C., Dashe, J. F., Pullicino, P., Lefkowitz, D. M., Sabounjian, L., Harnett, K., Schwiderski, U., and Gammans, R. Effect of citicoline on ischemic lesions as measured by diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging. Citicoline 0 DOI
  5. Lukas, S. E., Kouri, E. M., Rhee, C., Madrid, A., and Renshaw, P. F. Effects of short-term citicoline treatment on acute cocaine intoxication and cardiovascular effects. Psychopharmacology.(Berl.) 2001;157(2):163-167. PubMed
  6. Dinsdale, J. R., Griffiths, G. K., Castello, J., Maddock, J., Ortiz, J. A., and Aylward, M. CDP-choline: repeated oral dose tolerance studies in adult healthy volunteers. Arzneimittelforschung. 1983;33(7A):1061-1065.
  7. Clark BC, Georgekutty J, Berul CI. Myocardial ischemia secondary to synthetic cannabinoid (K2) use in pediatric patients. J Pediatr 2015;167(3):757-61.e1. PubMed
  8. Ghajar A, Gholamian F, Tabatabei-Motlagh M, et al. Citicoline (CDP-choline) add-on therapy to risperidone for treatment of negative symptoms in patients with stable schizophrenia: a double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled trial. Hum Psychopharmacol. 2
  9. Castagna A, Manzo C, Fabbo A, Lacava R, Ruberto C, Ruotolo G. The CITIMERIVA Study: CITIcoline plus MEmantina plus RIVAstigmine in Older Patients Affected with Alzheimer's Disease. Clin Drug Investig. 2021 Feb;41(2):177-182. PubMed
  10. Jeong H, Yoon S, Sung YH, et al. Effects of cytidine-5'-diphosphate choline on gray matter volumes in methamphetamine-dependent patients: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. J Psychiatr Res 2021;143:215-221. PubMed
  11. Nakazaki E, Mah E, Sanoshy K, Citrolo D, Watanabe F. Citicoline and Memory Function in Healthy Older Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. J Nutr 2021;151(8):2153-2160. PubMed

See these in context on the Citicoline monograph →

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

Keep exploring