Vinpocetine is an alkaloid derived from an extract of a plant known as the lesser periwinkle, a type of shrub native to Europe. Although it has been sold throughout Europe for years, vinpocetine has only recently been made available in the United States. In Europe, vinpocetine is available as a prescription drug. In the U.S., however, vinpocetine can be purchased as an over-the-counter supplement.
Most studies of vinpocetine have examined its role in improving blood circulation in the brain, which can help treat conditions such as memory problems, decreased cognitive abilities and confusion. Vinpocetine also appears to improve the brain's ability to use oxygen by increasing the amount of ATP, which can be of use to patients diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and similar conditions. As a result, vinpocetine is sometimes marketed as a "nootropic" or "cognitive enhancer." Evidence also suggests that vinpocetine may benefit people who have suffered strokes, and may improve vision and hearing in some individuals.
Most studies of vinpocetine for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease have used a dosage of 10 milligrams twice per day. For conditions such as memory loss or tinnitus, some practitioners recommend slightly higher doses (10 milligrams three times per day, usually with meals).
Vinpocetine is available only in supplement form, usually in doses ranging from five milligrams to 20 milligrams. Vinpocetine is sold as a standalone product, and is sometimes offered as part of a larger supplement. It can also be administered intravenously by a qualified health care provider.
Although most trials of vinpocetine have not documented any serious side-effects, adverse reactions may occur in sensitive individuals, such as dry mouth, changes in blood pressure, and an accelerated heart rate. Should these or other side-effects occur, discontinue use immediately and consult a licensed health care provider for more information. Vincopetine should not be taken by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Because vincopetine may affect blood pressure and heart rate, it should be used with extreme caution by patients taking blood pressure and/or heart medications. As always, make sure to consult with a licensed health care practitioner before taking vinpocetine or any other herbal remedy or dietary supplement.
References
Chronic pain afflicts over 20% of the adult population. Sadly, most MDs have essentially no education in treating pain, beyond offering a few toxic medications. Then they tend to steer people with pain away from those health practitioners who are trained. This puts the acupuncture community on the front lines for addressing this epidemic.
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