TRADE NAME: Vinpocetine

Chemical Name: ethyl apovincaminate; ethyl apovincaminoate; eburnamenine-14-carboxylic acid ethyl ester; 3 alpha, 16 alpha-apovincaminic acid ethyl ester; ethyl apovincamin-22-oate; cavinton.

Type of Supplement: Weight Loss, Cognitive Function

WHAT IT IS: Vinpocetine is a compound derived from the plant, Vinca minor L. which is part of the periwinkle plant family. It is used in Europe, Japan and Mexico as a pharmaceutical drug, but sold in the U.S. as a dietary supplement. Vinpocetine appears to improve blood flow to the brain, and influence metabolism. It may also work as an anticonvulsant, an antioxidant and neuroprotector which enhances cognition1.

HOW IT WORKS: After being absorbed in the small intestine, the liver processes it and distributes it throughout systemic circulation. From here, it flows to the brain and other parts of the body. This plant-based compound exerts powerful effects in the body at the cellular level. Vinpocetine has been shown to protect neurons against excitotoxicity (neuron cell death caused by excitatory amino acids). Vinpocetine appears to have calcium-channel blocking abilities, which may pose vascular benefits to health. Finally, vinpocetine inhibits cGMP phophodiesterase, which increases cerebral blood flow1.

PRIMARY EFFECTS: Vinpocetine may reduce fatality from ischemic stroke. A recent study found that just a two-week intravenous delivery of Vinpocetine to patients with chronic ischemic stroke patients had improved regional cerebral blood flow2. Due to its ability to enhance blood flow, especially to the brain, it may play a role in Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

EFFECTIVE DOSAGE LEVEL: Research shows benefit to those taking 5-20 mg/day.

SUPPLEMENT CONFLICTS: Those on prescription medication may want to check with an allied health professional before using Vinpocetine.

SIDE EFFECTS: Some may experience gastrointestinal upset, dizziness, blood pressure alterations.