Taking Ambien With Ashwagandha And L-Theanine
In our latest question and answer, our pharmacist discusses the safety of the combined use of Ambien, ashwagandha and L-theanine.
I have been taking Ambien starting December 17th and gradually reducing the dose from 10 milligrams. On January 30th, I started reducing it even more. Can I use Ashwagandha containing 5 milligrams of L-Theanine for sleep? If so, what is the recommended amount and when should it be taken?
Feb 09, 2023- Ambien combined with ashwagandha and L-theanine may increase sedative effects since all three substances have sedating properties. You should avoid activities requiring alertness, like driving, when taking these together since the sedation could be enhanced. Unlike some drug combinations with Ambien, ashwagandha and L-theanine are not known to affect breathing, so the main concern is excessive drowsiness rather than respiratory depression.
Answer
Thanks for reaching out to us!
There are some listed interactions between Ambien (zolpidem) and the two natural products you listed in your question, ashwagandha, and L-theanine. These are detailed on our 'drug-herbal interaction' pages:
This is less an interaction where multiple substances affect one another, but more of a precaution of experiencing additive effects.
Specifically, ashwagandha and L-theanine, both of which have sedative properties, in conjunction with Ambien, could enhance their sedative effects.
For example, ashwagandha is traditionally used for its purported adaptogenic properties, which may help the body react to stress better. It is also sometimes used for insomnia.
Most studies report it can have mild sedative effects, but the mechanism behind this isn't well understood.
Similarly, L-theanine is also used for its sedative and calming effects, so the interaction between all of these substances is additive sedation, so you want to be cautious doing anything that requires you to be alert while taking these.
Additional Thoughts
It is important to note that oftentimes, the concern with taking too many sedative drugs is the risk of additive CNS (central nervous system) depression.
This is especially true with Ambien if you combine it with drugs like opioids. Not only is there a risk of excess sedation but also of respiratory depression.
Fortunately, there is no evidence to suggest that ashwagandha or L-theanine affects respiration (i.e., breathing). We are really more concerned with the additive sedative effects when combined with Ambien.
Final Words
In regard to dosing, there is no standardized dosing for either L-theanine or ashwagandha, but in regard to ashwagandha, studies have utilized doses ranging from 300mg to 1,000mg daily with few reported side effects. L-theanine also appears relatively safe to use, and dosages in studies have ranged from 5mg to 400mg daily.
Thanks so much for your question and reach back out anytime!
References & sources
- An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study — PubMed
- Effects of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) on Physical Performance: Systematic Review and Bayesian Meta-Analysis — PubMed
- Effects of l-Theanine on Cognitive Function in Middle-Aged and Older Subjects: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Study — PubMed
Glossary — Terms in This Answer
- Ambien
- A prescription medication (zolpidem) used to help people fall asleep.
- Zolpidem
- The generic drug name for Ambien, a sedative medication prescribed for insomnia.
- Ashwagandha
- A natural herbal supplement that is traditionally used to help the body manage stress and may have mild sleep-promoting effects.
- L-theanine
- A natural compound found in tea that is used as a supplement for its calming and relaxing effects.
- Additive effects
- When two or more substances combine to create a stronger combined effect than each would produce alone.
- Adaptogenic
- A substance that may help the body better manage and respond to stress.
- CNS depression
- A slowing down of brain and nervous system activity that can reduce alertness and breathing.
- Respiratory depression
- A dangerous condition where breathing becomes slower and shallower than normal.
Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Doctor of Pharmacy, board certified clinical pharmacist (BCPS), American Herbalist Guild, Medication Therapy Management certified
Brian Staiger, PharmD, BCPS, is a licensed pharmacist with more than 13 years of experience across retail pharmacy, clinical pharmacy, medication safety, pharmacy program development, and healthcare administration. He is the founder of HelloPharmacist.com, where he helps patients...
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