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

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

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 oth...

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

Can I take Vinpocetine during pregnancy?

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

Can I take Vinpocetine while breastfeeding?

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

Can I drive if I have consumed Vinpocetine?

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

Can I consume alcohol with Vinpocetine?

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 t...

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 ...

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 ...

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 use...
Read more
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 flo...
Read more
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

References

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Last Updated on: 05 Oct 2020 | 10:47 PM (IST)

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