Cordyceps Ingredients & Drug Interactions
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking Cordyceps 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
Cordyceps is a dietary supplement by Ancient Nutrition with 2 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for fatigue and low energy, athletic performance and stamina, respiratory and lung support.Based on those ingredients, 1,430 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Ashwagandha Leaf, Root Extract, Cordyceps Mushroom extract. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against Cordyceps by Ancient Nutrition
Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Cordyceps by Ancient Nutrition — 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
Ask the Pharmacist
A licensed pharmacist will answer your question by email — free, usually within 24 hours.
Got it — thank you!
A licensed pharmacist will answer within 24 hours. Keep an eye on your email (worth checking spam, just in case).
HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Cordyceps by Ancient Nutrition
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
Low disclosure
This product contains 2 active ingredients. Cordyceps Mushroom extract is a fungal extract traditionally used for energy and athletic performance.
Ashwagandha Leaf and Root Extract is an adaptogenic herb — a plant thought to help your body manage stress and promote relaxation. The tablet also contains several inactive ingredients including maltodextrin, gum acacia, agave inulin, guar gum, sunflower lecithin, glycerin, and rice hull concentrate, which serve as binders, thickeners, and flow agents.
Does it work?
Not established
Ashwagandha has the stronger evidence base here. It's rated Possibly Effective for insomnia, anxiety, stress, and generalized anxiety disorder — meaning there's some evidence it may help, though more research is needed.
Cordyceps, by contrast, is rated Possibly Ineffective for athletic performance, which is one of its most common uses. For cordyceps' other claimed uses — sexual dysfunction, irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), asthma, lung cancer, and COPD — there's insufficient reliable evidence to say whether it works.
The evidence on ashwagandha for bipolar disorder is also insufficient.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
Both ingredients are generally well tolerated in the short term, but long-term safety data are limited and product quality varies. The most common side effects from cordyceps are gastrointestinal — abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, or constipation, usually mild and sometimes reduced if you take it with food.
Ashwagandha can cause diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal upset, though these don't commonly happen at typical doses. Rare but serious concerns include acute hepatitis and liver damage reported with ashwagandha, and one case of hepatitis possibly tied to cordyceps (though a contaminant couldn't be ruled out).
Ashwagandha has also been reported to cause drowsiness, and there is a case report linking it to intracranial hemorrhage, though the causality is unclear. During pregnancy, cordyceps has not enough safety data and should be avoided; ashwagandha is rated Likely Unsafe and traditionally thought to risk miscarriage, so avoid it.
While breastfeeding, neither ingredient has enough safety information — avoid both and talk with your healthcare provider.
Meds to double-check
Moderate interaction found
Before taking this, double-check with your pharmacist if you're on any of these: blood pressure medications (ashwagandha may lower it further); blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs like warfarin or aspirin (cordyceps may increase bleeding risk); immunosuppressants like cyclosporine (both ingredients may interfere); sleeping pills, sedatives, benzodiazepines like Valium or Xanax, or other CNS depressants (ashwagandha may strengthen their effects); diabetes medications (ashwagandha may increase hypoglycemia risk); thyroid hormone like levothyroxine (ashwagandha may increase effects); medications processed by the liver, or any other hepatotoxic drugs (ashwagandha carries liver risk); or testosterone therapy (cordyceps may have additive effects).
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glanceFormula with limited ingredient disclosure with no established evidence rating for its marketed use. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
If you're looking for help with stress, anxiety, or sleep, ashwagandha has some evidence behind it — cordyceps' athletic performance claims are weaker. The real step before starting is checking your medications, especially blood pressure drugs, blood thinners, immunosuppressants, diabetes medications, thyroid hormones, and sedatives or sleeping pills.
Talk to your pharmacist before you take this product.
Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI
Assessment coverage: 2 of 2 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jun 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 Cordyceps, straight from the product label.
| Brand | Ancient Nutrition |
|---|---|
| Barcode (UPC) | 816401025494 |
| Net contents | 30 Tablet(s) |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Jun 22, 2023 |
| DSLD ID | 293313 |
| Product type | Botanical |
| Supplement form | Tablet Or Pill |
| Dietary claims / uses | All Other, Structure/Function |
| Intended target group(s) | Adult (18 - 50 Years), Organic |
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 Cordyceps by Ancient Nutrition, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Cordyceps Mushroom extract | 0 NP | -- |
| Ashwagandha Leaf, Root Extract | 0 NP | -- |
| Organic Mushroom and Botanical Blend | 1 Gram(s) | -- |
Other ingredients: Maltodextrin, Gum Acacia, Copernicia cerifera, Agave Inulin, Guar Gum, Sunflower Lecithin, Glycerin, Rice hull concentrate
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.
Formulation
Optimized for absorption Energy and Endurance
USDA Organic
Color and odor may vary from lot to lot.
Certified Organic by CCOF
Seals/Symbols
USDA Organic
FDA Statement of Identity
Whole Food Dietary Supplement
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Suggested Use: Adults take 1 tablet, once per day.
Precautions
WARNING: As with any dietary supplement consult your healthcare practitioner before using this product, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or under any medical supervision. If you are currently undergoing HIV treatment, chemotherapy, or allograft therapy, do not use before consulting your physician.
Do not use if safety seal is broken or missing.
Keep out of reach of children.
NOTICE: Use this product as a food supplement only. Do not use for weight reduction.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place.
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.
General Statements
Dr. Axe Formula
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
Cordyceps by Ancient Nutrition 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 Cordyceps by Ancient Nutrition
These are the 2 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.
Serving size1 Tablet(s) Dosage formTablet Or Pill Servings per container30 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.
Organic Mushroom and Botanical Blend
Other (inactive) ingredients: Maltodextrin, Gum Acacia, Copernicia cerifera, Agave Inulin, Guar Gum, Sunflower Lecithin, Glycerin, Rice hull concentrate. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
Cordyceps by Ancient Nutrition Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
Cordyceps by Ancient Nutrition contains two active ingredients with documented interactions, and together they affect a significant number of medications.
The most serious concern is ashwagandha's potential to damage the liver — especially if you're already taking other drugs that stress your liver. Ashwagandha has been linked to cases of acute hepatitis and liver failure in rare instances.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
Both ingredients can interact with blood pressure medications (antihypertensive drugs); ashwagandha may lower your blood pressure further, raising the risk of hypotension (dangerously low blood pressure). Cordyceps theoretically increases bleeding risk with blood thinners (anticoagulants) and antiplatelet drugs like warfarin or aspirin, though this hasn't been documented in humans.
Both ingredients may interfere with immunosuppressants — cordyceps may reduce how well they work, while ashwagandha stimulates immunity in ways that could counteract their effects. Ashwagandha also has Moderate interactions with benzodiazepines (which may have stronger sedative effects), blood sugar medications (raising hypoglycemia risk), thyroid hormone (which may increase), and CNS depressants like sleeping pills or sedatives.
Cordyceps may have additive effects with testosterone therapy. Ashwagandha may decrease levels of certain medications metabolized by the CYP1A2 enzyme.
Additionally, cordyceps has no known interactions beyond those named above. Altogether, these interactions span 1,431 individual medications.
Run your exact prescriptions through the medication checker on this page before you start.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against Cordyceps?
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 Cordyceps interact with 1,430 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
2 of the 2 ingredients in Cordyceps interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Ashwagandha Leaf, Root Extract Cordyceps Mushroom extract
6-mercaptopurinePurinethol
How 6-mercaptopurine interacts with Cordyceps — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, Root ExtractHepatotoxic Drugs, Immunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Read the full Ashwagandha Leaf, Root Extract + 6-mercaptopurine interactionCordyceps Mushroom ExtractImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concurrent use of cordyceps might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.
Read the full Cordyceps Mushroom Extract + 6-mercaptopurine interactionAbacavir Sulfate, Dolutegravir, LamivudineTriumeq
How Abacavir Sulfate, Dolutegravir, Lamivudine interacts with Cordyceps — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, Root ExtractHepatotoxic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Read the full Ashwagandha Leaf, Root Extract + Abacavir Sulfate, Dolutegravir, Lamivudine interactionAbacavir, LamivudineEpzicom
How Abacavir, Lamivudine interacts with Cordyceps — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, Root ExtractHepatotoxic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Read the full Ashwagandha Leaf, Root Extract + Abacavir, Lamivudine interactionAbciximabReoPro
How Abciximab interacts with Cordyceps — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Cordyceps Mushroom ExtractAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cordyceps may increase the risk of bleeding when used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
Read the full Cordyceps Mushroom Extract + Abciximab interactionAbiraterone
How Abiraterone interacts with Cordyceps — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, 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 Leaf, Root Extract + Abiraterone interactionAbiraterone AcetateYonsa, Zytiga
How Abiraterone Acetate interacts with Cordyceps — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, 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 Leaf, Root Extract + Abiraterone Acetate interactionAbrocitinibCibinqo
How Abrocitinib interacts with Cordyceps — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Cordyceps Mushroom ExtractAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs, Immunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cordyceps may increase the risk of bleeding when used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
Read the full Cordyceps Mushroom Extract + Abrocitinib interactionAshwagandha Leaf, Root ExtractImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha might decrease the effects of immunosuppressants.
Read the full Ashwagandha Leaf, Root Extract + Abrocitinib interactionAcarboseGlucobay, Prandase, Precose
How Acarbose interacts with Cordyceps — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, Root ExtractAntidiabetes Drugs, Hepatotoxic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full Ashwagandha Leaf, Root Extract + Acarbose interactionAcebutololRhotral, Sectral
How Acebutolol interacts with Cordyceps — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, Root ExtractHepatotoxic Drugs, Antihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Read the full Ashwagandha Leaf, Root Extract + Acebutolol interactionAcenocoumarolSintrom
How Acenocoumarol interacts with Cordyceps — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Cordyceps Mushroom ExtractAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cordyceps may increase the risk of bleeding when used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
Read the full Cordyceps Mushroom Extract + Acenocoumarol interactionAcepromazineAtravet
How Acepromazine interacts with Cordyceps — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, Root ExtractCns Depressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha might increase the sedative effects of CNS depressants.
Read the full Ashwagandha Leaf, Root Extract + Acepromazine interactionAcetaminophenChildren's Tylenol, Children's Tylenol Meltaways, Tylenol, Tylenol Ex Strength
How Acetaminophen interacts with Cordyceps — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, 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 Leaf, Root Extract + Acetaminophen interactionAcetaminophen, AspirinGemnisyn
How Acetaminophen, Aspirin interacts with Cordyceps — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, 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 Leaf, Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Aspirin interactionCordyceps Mushroom ExtractAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cordyceps may increase the risk of bleeding when used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
Read the full Cordyceps Mushroom Extract + Acetaminophen, Aspirin interactionAcetaminophen, Aspirin, CaffeineExcedrin, Excedrin Extra Strength, Excedrin Migraine
How Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interacts with Cordyceps — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, 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 Leaf, Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interactionCordyceps Mushroom ExtractAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cordyceps may increase the risk of bleeding when used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
Read the full Cordyceps Mushroom Extract + Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interactionAcetaminophen, Brompheniramine, PhenylpropanolamineDimetapp Cold and Flu
How Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interacts with Cordyceps — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, 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 Leaf, Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interactionAcetaminophen, ButalbitalAxocet, Bancap, Bucet, Butex Forte, Esgic CF, Orbivan CF +5 more
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital interacts with Cordyceps — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, 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 Leaf, Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Butalbital interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, CaffeineEsgic, Esgic Plus, Fiogesic, Fioricet, Repan, Tecnal +1 more
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine interacts with Cordyceps — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, 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 Leaf, Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, CodeineEsgic with Codeine, Fioricet w/ Codeine
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interacts with Cordyceps — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Ashwagandha Leaf, Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, CodeineBancap w/ Codeine
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine interacts with Cordyceps — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, Root ExtractCns Depressants, Hepatotoxic Drugs +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha might increase the sedative effects of CNS depressants.
Read the full Ashwagandha Leaf, Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine PhosphatePhrenilin #3
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine Phosphate interacts with Cordyceps — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, 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 Leaf, Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine Phosphate interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, PhenylephrineHycomine Compound
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, Phenylephrine interacts with Cordyceps — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, Root ExtractCns Depressants, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha might increase the sedative effects of CNS depressants.
Read the full Ashwagandha Leaf, 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 Cordyceps — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, 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 Leaf, Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, SalicylamideCodalan No.1, Codalan No.2, Codalan No.3
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, Salicylamide interacts with Cordyceps — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, Root ExtractCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
Read the full Ashwagandha Leaf, Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, Salicylamide interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, DihydrocodeineDHC Plus, Panlor DC, Panlor SS
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine interacts with Cordyceps — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, Root ExtractHepatotoxic Drugs, Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Read the full Ashwagandha Leaf, Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, IsomethepteneMigralam
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Isometheptene interacts with Cordyceps — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, 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 Leaf, Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Isometheptene interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, PyrilamineMidol Max Strength Menstrual
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Pyrilamine interacts with Cordyceps — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, 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 Leaf, Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Pyrilamine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan HbrVicks Formula 44M Cough, Cold & Flu Relief
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan Hbr interacts with Cordyceps — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, Root ExtractHepatotoxic Drugs, Serotonergic Drugs +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Read the full Ashwagandha Leaf, Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan Hbr interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, PhenylephrineColrex
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interacts with Cordyceps — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, Root ExtractHepatotoxic Drugs, Cns Depressants +3 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Read the full Ashwagandha Leaf, Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, DextromethorphanCoricidin II Extra Strength Cold and Flu
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan interacts with Cordyceps — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, Root ExtractCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
Read the full Ashwagandha Leaf, Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan HydrobromideCoricidin HBP Maximum Strength Flu
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide interacts with Cordyceps — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ashwagandha Leaf, 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 Leaf, Root Extract + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in Cordyceps 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 Leaf, 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/]
Cordyceps Mushroom extract
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs
Theoretically, cordyceps may increase the risk of bleeding when used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
In vitro and animal research suggests that cordyceps extract inhibits platelet aggregation and function. However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.
Immunosuppressants
Theoretically, concurrent use of cordyceps might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.
Animal and in vitro research suggests that cordyceps stimulates the immune system. However, limited clinical research suggests that taking cordyceps may lower the necessary therapeutic dose of the immunosuppressant cyclosporine, which suggests that cordyceps may have an immunosuppressive effect.
Testosterone
Theoretically, concurrent use of cordyceps and testosterone might have additive effects.
Animal research suggests that cordyceps can increase testosterone levels. The clinical significance of this finding is unclear.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for Cordyceps, from the product label.
Ancient Nutrition
See all Ancient Nutrition products- Name
- Ancient Nutrition, LLC
- Street Address
- 2000 Mallory Lane Suite 130-307
- City
- Franklin
- State
- TN
- ZipCode
- 37067
- Web Address
- www.AncientNutrition.com
Cordyceps by Ancient Nutrition: Common Questions
Does Cordyceps by Ancient Nutrition interact with any medications?
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Where does this information come from?
Can I take this while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Will this help my athletic performance?
What are the most common side effects?
Can I take this long-term?
Is this safe if I have liver disease?
What does ashwagandha do in this product?
Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
Not sure if Cordyceps is safe with your meds?
Our pharmacists answer your medication & supplement questions — free.
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 Cordyceps’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
Cordyceps
Interacts with 249 drugsCordyceps is a fungus used in traditional Chinese medicine for energy, exercise performance, and lung and immune support. Human research is limited and mostly low quality, so its benefits ar...
Read the full Cordyceps monograph → Herb & supplement monographAshwagandha
Interacts with 1,372 drugsAshwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb most often taken to help with stress, anxiety, and sleep, and some small studies suggest it may help, though the evidence is still limited. It is generally w...
Read the full Ashwagandha monograph →Sources & How We Checked
Cordyceps'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 46 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.
Cordyceps 14 references
- Zhu JS, Halpern GM, Jones K. The scientific rediscovery of an ancient Chinese herbal medicine: Cordyceps sinensis: part I. J Altern Complement Med 1998;4:289-303.
- Zhu JS, Halpern GM, Jones K. The scientific rediscovery of a precious ancient Chinese herbal regimen: Cordyceps sinensis: part II. J Altern Complement Med 1998;4:429-57.
- Chen YJ, Shiao MS, Lee SS, Wang SY. Effect of Cordyceps sinensis on the proliferation and differentiation of human leukemic U937 cells. Life Sci 1997;60:2349-59. PubMed
- Zhao Y. [Inhibitory effects of alcoholic extract of Cordyceps sinensis on abdominal aortic thrombus formation in rabbits]. Chung Hua I Hsueh Tsa Chih (Taipei) 1991;71:612-5, 42.
- Chen GZ, Chen GL, Sun T, et al. Effects of Cordyceps sinensis on murine T lymphocyte subsets. Chin Med J (English) 1991;104:4-8.
- Zhu XY, Yu HY. [Immunosuppressive effect of cultured Cordyceps sinensis on cellular immune response]. Chung Hsi I Chieh Ho Tsa Chih 1990;10:485-7, 454.
- Hsu, C. C., Huang, Y. L., Tsai, S. J., Sheu, C. C., and Huang, B. M. In vivo and in vitro stimulatory effects of Cordyceps sinensis on testosterone production in mouse Leydig cells. Life Sci 9-5-2003;73(16):2127-2136. PubMed
- Ikumoto, T., Sasaki, S., Namba, H., Toyama, R., Moritoki, H., and Mouri, T. [Physiologically active compounds in the extracts from tochukaso and cultured mycelia of Cordyceps and Isaria]. Yakugaku Zasshi 1991;111(9):504-509. PubMed
- Wu, T. N., Yang, K. C., Wang, C. M., Lai, J. S., Ko, K. N., Chang, P. Y., and Liou, S. H. Lead poisoning caused by contaminated Cordyceps, a Chinese herbal medicine: two case reports. Sci.Total Environ. 4-5-1996;182(1-3):193-195. PubMed
- Hong T, Zhang M, Fan J. Cordyceps sinensis (a traditional Chinese medicine) for kidney transplant recipients (Review). Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2015;(10):CD009698. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD009698.pub2.
- Zhang HW, Lin ZX, Tung YS, Kwan TH, Mok CK, Leung C, Chan LS. Cordyceps sinensis (a traditional Chinese medicine) for treating chronic kidney disease (Review). Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2014;(12):CD008353. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD008353.pub2. PubMed
- Bee Yean O, Zoriah A. Efficacy of Cordyceps sinensis as an adjunctive treatment in hemodialysis patients: a systematic review and Meta-analysis. J Tradit Chin Med. 2019;39(1):1-14.
- Thurian D, Montani M, Stickel F. Drug-induced, mixed-type hepatitis following ingestion of Cordyceps sinensis. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther 2022;60(2):115-120. PubMed
- Yu X, Mao Y, Shergis JL, et al. Effectiveness and safety of oral Cordyceps sinensis on stable COPD of GOLD stages 2-3: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2019;2019:4903671.
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