Vinpocetine
Vinpocetine is a synthetic derivative of the vinca alkaloid vincamine, an extract from the periwinkle plant. This supplement has been marketed in Europe and Japan for several decades as a cerebral vasodilator and an agent that increases cerebral metabolism. It’s known for its neuroprotective effects and potential benefits for cognitive enhancement and mitigation of neurological diseases.
Benefits:
- Neuroprotection: Vinpocetine has been noted to have neuroprotective effects, especially in conditions like ischemia and neurodegeneration.
- Cognition Enhancement: Some evidence suggests that Vinpocetine may improve cognitive performance, particularly in conditions of cognitive decline.
- Anti-inflammatory: Studies have shown that Vinpocetine has anti-inflammatory effects, which can be beneficial for overall health.
- Hearing and Vision Improvement: Preliminary research shows potential for Vinpocetine in improving hearing and vision issues, including age-related macular degeneration and tinnitus.
Most clinical studies have used between 5 and 30 mg vinpocetine given up to 3 times daily due to a short half-life (2 to 4 hours). One case study found that a daily dose of 40 mg of vinpocetine improved cognitive function in people with mild cognitive impairment. Another study found that a dose of 20 mg of vinpocetine improved blood flow to the brain in healthy men. However, the scientific evidence for its effectiveness is limited and inconsistent.
Vinpocetine can cause some side effects, including stomach discomfort, sleep problems, headache, dizziness, and flushing of the face. It may also increase the risk of bleeding and weaken the immune system in some people. Breastfeeding women should avoid using vinpocetine. People with bleeding disorders and weakened immune systems should use it cautiously and consult their healthcare provider before use.
Sources:
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-175/vinpocetine
- https://www.drugs.com/npp/vinpocetine.html
- https://examine.com/supplements/vinpocetine/
- https://reviews.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientreview-175-vinpocetine
- https://www.rxlist.com/vinpocetine/supplements.htm
- https://supplements.selfdecode.com/blog/13-ways-vinpocetine-can-improve-health-brain-power/
