Ashwagandha may add to sedative, anticonvulsant, diabetes, blood pressure, thyroid, and immunosuppressive medicines. Product variation and limited clinical interaction data make medication review important before using a concentrated extract.

Use with caution. Healthcare professional review recommended before use.

Contraindications

Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Autoimmune or thyroid disorders without medical guidance
Upcoming surgery
Hormone-sensitive prostate cancer

Cautions

Short-term use up to about three months has been studied more than long-term use.
Drowsiness, stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting can occur.
Rare cases of liver injury have been linked to ashwagandha supplements.

Drug Interactions

Drug Class / Substrate	Mechanism	Severity	Source
Sedatives, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and anticonvulsants	Sedative and GABA-related effects may be additive. Clinical relevance is not fully established.	Moderate	NCCIH Ashwagandha
Diabetes and blood pressure medicines	Ashwagandha may add to glucose-lowering or blood-pressure-lowering effects.	Moderate	NCCIH Ashwagandha
Immunosuppressants	Immune effects may oppose medicines intended to reduce immune activity.	Moderate	NCCIH Ashwagandha
Thyroid hormone medicines	Ashwagandha may affect thyroid hormone levels and complicate dosing.	Moderate	NCCIH Ashwagandha
CYP2B6 and CYP3A4 substrate medicines	Laboratory studies found enzyme inhibition or induction, but clinical relevance is not known.	Uncertain	Memorial Sloan Kettering About Herbs

Pregnancy

Not recommended during pregnancy. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before any use.

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal medicines, especially if you take prescription medications.