Vinpocetine

Vinpocetine is an extract taken from the periwinkle plant (Vinca minor) which is an evergreen undershrub.  It is produced by making some slight change on the Vincamine molecule.  It is technically called ‘ethyl apovincaminate’.  The shrub is found in Europe where it has undergone intensive scrutiny since 1950s especially in its capacity to enhance brain function which is subject to stroke and age-related decline.  Early experiments conducted on the effects of vinpocetine revealed that there is an improvement of cerebral circulation and oxygen utilization without changes in systemic circulation, cerebral protection in conditions of hypoxia/ischaemia, improves cognition and anticonvulsant activity and promotes rheological properties of the blood.

Poor brain circulation is one of the most important causes in the cognitive decline due to aging.  Disorientation and memory lapses are usually experienced.  Vinpocetine can increase blood circulation in the brain especially in people who suffer from mild, age-related cognitive impairment.  Another benefit in using vinpocetine is that it promotes the use of oxygen by increasing ATP (adenosine triphosphate) which is considered as the body’s cellular fuel.  This is particularly beneficial for people who suffer from dementia which are caused by a number of small strokes because vinpocetine promotes oxygen-rich environment. Vinpocetine is also used in Europe to treat signs of acute stroke, motor disorders and dizziness.  Some studies indicate that it could be helpful in improving visual acuity and hearing.  Healthy people have reportedly improved short-term memory with vinpocetine. 

The perceived health benefits derived from vinpocetine use include:

§ Dilate blood vessels
§ Improve brain circulation
§ Improve oxygen utilization
§ Make red blood cells more flexible
§ Impede aggregation of platelets
§ Has antioxidant properties

Levels of vinpocetine peak in the bloodstream usually an hour and a half after ingestion.  It can easily cross the blood-brain barrier.  Most clinical trials indicate that there are no serious side effects caused by the use of vinpocetine.  Adverse reactions do occur. But this rarely happens.  Symptoms of adverse reactions to vinpocetine include: temporary drop in blood pressure, accelerated heart rate, dry mouth and weakness. Quit taking vinpocetine if you noticed these symptoms and consult your doctor. Pregnant women and nursing mothers should avoid taking vinpocetine.  Allergic reactions or hypersensitivity with other vinca alkaloids such as vinblastine and vincristine should refrain from taking theherbal medicine.  Those on warfarin must constantly monitor using INRs when taking this herbal supplement.   Those who have hypotension or orthostatic hypotension should exercise caution in using vinpocetine since it can lead to minimal reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure.  

Interactions with vinpocetine must be watched out for when taking warfarin as the herbal supplement could cause minimal changes in prothrombin time.  There are no other known drugs or nutrients interaction connected with vinpocetine other than the one stated above. In taking vinpocetine, keep in mind that it could be available as individual supplement or combination products.  The standard doses of vinpocetine supplement are 5 to 10 milligrams daily with food.  Some take up to 20 milligrams daily. Higher doses are not advisable.