Vinpocetine
Molecule Description
Vinpocetine is a neuroprotective agent (a medicine that protects the brain from
harmful effects) and is used in memory and thinking problems that arise due to impaired blood circulation in the brain. It is classified as a ‘diet supplement.’
Uses of Vinpocetine
Supportive treatment in patients who have seizures, memory, learning or concentration problems due to reduced blood flow and circulation in the brain (in conditions such as stroke, dementia or any other similar situations)....
Contraindications of Vinpocetine
When should one not use Vinpocetine
- Allergy to Vinpocetine or any of its constituents
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Constipation
Side effects of Vinpocetine
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Redness of the face, dry mouth, feeling drowsy or dizzy
- Headache, sleeplessness, anxiety
- Feeling sick (nausea), indigestion
Precautions and Warnings of Vinpocetine
Pregnancy
Q:
Can I take Vinpocetine during pregnancy?
A:
Enough data is not available to support the use of Vinpocetine during pregnancy. Moreover, this medicine can increase menstrual blood flow. It is best advised to avoid this medicine during pregnancy.
Breast Feeding
Q:
Can I take Vinpocetine while breastfeeding?
A:
Sufficient data is not available. But Vinpocetine is known to suppress lactation or production of breast milk. Hence this medicine should not be given in breastfeeding women.
Driving
Q:
Can I drive if I have consumed Vinpocetine?
A:
Vinpocetine is not known to affect your ability to drive. But caution is advised in the presence of symptoms like drowsiness, headache, anxiety or sleeplessness.
Alcohol
Q:
Can I consume alcohol with Vinpocetine?
A:
Vinpocetine should not be used in patients with low blood pressure (hypotension). As alcohol causes hypotension, it is recommended to avoid it.
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
Vinpocetine should not be used in patients with low blood pressure or constipation (in patients with bowel movement problems).
Mode of Action of Vinpocetine
How Does It Work?
Vinpocetine relaxes the blood vessels of the brain and improves blood circulation and oxygen and nutrient supply to the brain. It can also remove harmful substances from the blood (anti-oxidant) and thus improves the functioning and metabolism of the brain....
Interactions of Vinpocetine
Interactions with other medicines
- Data is not available
- Medicines such as Warfarin that are used as blood-thinning agents (to prevent blood clotting) should be used with caution
- Inform your doctor about all the medicines you are using (including prescription, non-prescription or herbal medicines, diet supplements, vitamins, etc.)
Interactions with food items
It is advisable to take Vinpocetine with food.
Dosage of Vinpocetine
Overdose
Vinpocetine is a safe drug, and accidental overdose may not be harmful. But it is advised not to take high doses of this medicine (more than 20 mg a day) for long periods as it may result in unwanted effects. Consult your doctor if you experience symptoms such as headache, sleeplessness, fast heartbeats, dry mouth, feeling dizzy, or tired (due to low blood pressure)....
Missed a Dose
Take the missed dose as early as you remember. If it is time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a higher or a double dose to compensate for the missed dose....
Content Details
WRITTEN BY
Dr. Ravi Kakarla
MBBS, MBA
REVIEWED BY
Dr. Ritu Budania
MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is Vinpocetine, and for what purpose it is used?
- Vinpocetine is made from the leaves of a plant called ‘lesser periwinkle’ or ‘myrtle’ or ‘creeping myrtle’ (Vinca minor). The plant has many medicinal properties and some other substances are also used from different parts of the plant...
- Vinpocetine has anti-oxidant properties, which means it prevents the accumulation of harmful substances and purifies the blood. It is used mainly in brain disorders that arise due to reduced blood flow...
- In various clinical studies, this compound was found to improve metabolism and blood circulation in the brain and thus increases the oxygen supply and glucose (leading food for the brain) levels
- It was found to be particularly useful in memory problems and in conditions like stroke, where there is reduced supply of oxygen to the brain resulting in temporary and permanent damage
- In patients with seizures and those with thinking, learning and memory problems (dementia), Vinpocetine was proven clinically to have improved memory and concentration
- Vinpocetine is a good treatment option to improve memory
Q: Is there anything else I need to know before taking Vinpocetine?
- Vinpocetine should be taken in the exact dose as advised by the physician. This medicine may have to be taken multiple times in a day, as it is absorbed and removed from the blood quickly
- Hence, do not take more than the recommended dose of this medicine
- It is advisable to take medicine with food
- Do not take alcohol when using this medicine; it may cause side effects
- Stop the medication at least two weeks before any surgery
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The information provided herein is supplied to the best of our abilities to make it accurate and reliable as it is published after a review by a team of professionals. This information is solely intended to provide a general overview on the product and must be used for informational purposes only. You should not use the information provided herein to diagnose, prevent, or cure a health problem. Nothing contained on this page is intended to create a doctor-patient relationship, replace or be a substitute for a registered medical practitioner's medical treatment/advice or consultation. The absence of any information or warning to any medicine shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance. We highly recommend that you consult your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. You hereby agree that you shall not make any health or medical-related decision based in whole or in part on anything contained in the Site. Please click here for detailed T&C.
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