Mild interactionMild

Ashwagandha (KSM-66) and SSRI antidepressant: interaction, severity and spacing

Ashwagandha (KSM-66) and SSRI antidepressant interact because ashwagandha has GABA-mimetic and mild serotonergic activity that can add to SSRI effects. Take them with care. Mild risk.

Last reviewed: 2026-09-20Reviewed by: StackingRight clinical review

The interaction in detail

Summary of the Ashwagandha (KSM-66) and SSRI antidepressant interaction
PairAshwagandha (KSM-66) and SSRI antidepressant
TypeNutrient–drug interaction
SeverityMild
Required spacingNone specified
OnsetAt the time of dosing

Mechanism

Ashwagandha has GABA-mimetic and mild serotonergic activity that can add to SSRI effects.

What to do

Use with caution and report new drowsiness or agitation.

Citationhttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27271864/

How to fit both into one day

Ashwagandha (KSM-66)
eveningflexible

Ashwagandha lowers cortisol and is mildly sedating, so evening dosing suits it. Avoid with thyroid medication without lab monitoring.

Putting Ashwagandha (KSM-66) in the evening and SSRI antidepressant in the evening satisfies the 0-hour separation without disrupting either one's absorption window.

Ashwagandha (KSM-66) and SSRI antidepressant: common questions