Vinpocetine is a chemical substance synthesized from vincamine, a natural constituent found
in the leaves of Vinca minor (lesser periwinkle).
Where is it found?
Vinpocetine is synthesized from vincamine, a constituent of the leaves of Vinca
minor (lesser periwinkle)
Vinpocetine has been used
in connection with the following condition (refer to the individual
health concern for complete information):
Who is likely to be deficient?
Vinpocetine is not an essential nutrient, so no deficiencies are possible.
How much is usually taken?
Research has typically used 30 to 60 mg per day of vinpocetine. Taking vinpocetine with
food appears to dramatically improve its absorption. 1
Are there any side effects or interactions?
Studies on vinpocetine report no serious side effects with amounts up to 60 mg per day.
2 Vinpocetine has blood-thinning effects, 3 which suggests that people
with bleeding disorders or who are taking anticoagulant or other blood-thinning medications
should consult a doctor before taking vinpocetine. However, one study found no such
interaction between vinpocetine and the anticoagulant drug warfarin. 4
Are there any drug
interactions?
Certain medicines may interact with vinpocetine. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.
References:1. Lohmann A, Dingler E, Sommer W, et al. Bioavailability of vinpocetine
and interference of the time of application with food intake. Arzneimittelforschung
1992;42:914–7.
2. Hindmarch I, Fuchs HH, Erzigkeit H. Efficacy and tolerance of
vinpocetine in ambulant patients suffering from mild to moderate organic psychosyndromes.
Int Clin Psychopharmacol 1991;6:31–43.
3. Osawa M, Maruyama S. Effects of TCV-3B (vinpocetine) on blood
viscosity in ischemic cerebrovascular diseases. Ther Hung 1985;33:7–12.
4. Hitzenberger G, Sommer W, Grandt R. Influence of vinpocetine on
warfarin-induced inhibition of coagulation. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther Toxicol
1990;28:323–8.