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Cognitive

Vinpocetine

Evidence Level
Moderate
2 Clinical Trials
5 Documented Benefits
3/5 Evidence Score

Vinpocetine is a SEMI-SYNTHETIC DERIVATIVE of vincamine — an alkaloid from periwinkle (Vinca minor). Developed in Hungary in the 1970s as PRESCRIPTION drug for cerebrovascular disorders (Cavinton®). Used in Eastern Europe and parts of Asia for stroke recovery, age-related cognitive decline, and tinnitus. AVAILABILITY ISSUES: FDA notified manufacturers in 2019 that vinpocetine doesn't meet dietary supplement criteria (not a vitamin, mineral, herb in dietary form, etc.); enforcement variable. PREGNANCY ABSOLUTELY CONTRAINDICATED.

Studied Dose 5-10 mg three times daily (15-30 mg/day total); some research uses up to 60 mg/day
Active Compound Vinpocetine (apovincaminic acid ethyl ester)

Benefits

Cerebrovascular Insufficiency / Stroke Recovery (Eastern European Use)

Established prescription use in Hungary, Russia, parts of Eastern Europe and Asia for cerebrovascular disorders. Multiple trials show modest improvements in cognitive function, neurological recovery after stroke. Western/US clinical adoption limited.

Supported by Trial 1

Age-Related Cognitive Decline

Some trials in dementia and age-related cognitive decline show modest improvements in memory, attention, and cognitive function. Effect smaller than prescription Alzheimer's drugs.

Supported by Trial 1, Trial 2

Tinnitus

Some evidence for modest tinnitus improvement — particularly recent-onset tinnitus. Konopka 1997 and others suggest benefit; rigorous modern evidence limited.

Supported by Trial 2

Cerebral Blood Flow Enhancement

Direct effect — selective cerebral vasodilation. Increases blood flow to ischemic brain regions without affecting systemic blood pressure. Mechanism: PDE1 inhibition, sodium channel modulation, voltage-dependent calcium channel modulation.

Supported by Trial 2

Theoretical Neuroprotection

Animal studies show neuroprotective effects via multiple mechanisms — anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, sodium channel modulation. Clinical translation modest.

Supported by Trial 1, Trial 2

Mechanism of action

1

PDE1 Inhibition (Cerebral Selective)

Inhibits phosphodiesterase 1 (PDE1) — particularly in cerebral vasculature; increases cAMP and cGMP in cerebral vessels; selective cerebral vasodilation without significant systemic BP effects. Distinguishes vinpocetine from non-selective vasodilators.

2

Voltage-Dependent Sodium Channel Modulation

Inhibits voltage-dependent sodium channels — neuroprotective during ischemia (reduces excitotoxicity). Mechanism shared with some anticonvulsants.

3

Calcium Channel Modulation

Modulates voltage-dependent calcium channels — additional neuroprotective mechanism.

4

Anti-Platelet Effects

Modest antiplatelet activity — may contribute to cerebrovascular benefits but creates bleeding risk concerns.

Clinical trials

1
Vinpocetine for Cerebrovascular Disorders — Hungarian / Russian Trials
PubMed

Multiple trials of vinpocetine (Cavinton®) in patients with cerebrovascular insufficiency, post-stroke recovery, and vascular cognitive impairment.

Cerebrovascular disease patients.

Modest improvements in cognitive function and neurological recovery. Established prescription status in Eastern European medicine; less recognized in Western medicine.

2
Vinpocetine for Tinnitus — Konopka 1997
PubMed

Trials of vinpocetine for tinnitus, particularly recent-onset.

Tinnitus patients.

Modest improvements in tinnitus severity and audiometric measures. Limited rigorous modern evidence; mechanism via cerebral blood flow plausible.

Side effects and drug interactions

Common Potential side effects

Generally well-tolerated.
Mild GI distress.
Headache.
Sleep disturbance.
Dizziness.
Hypotension (occasional).
BLEEDING RISK — antiplatelet effects; concerning for surgery, bleeding disorders.
Theoretical effects on heart rhythm in those with arrhythmia history.

Important Drug interactions

ANTICOAGULANTS (warfarin, DOACs, heparin) — additive bleeding risk; AVOID without medical supervision.
ANTIPLATELET DRUGS (aspirin, clopidogrel, ticagrelor) — additive bleeding risk; consult.
Antihypertensives — additive BP effects (modest); monitor.
Anticonvulsants — sodium channel effects theoretically interactive.
PRE-SURGERY — discontinue 1-2 weeks before due to bleeding risk.
PREGNANCY — vinpocetine has been associated with FETAL HARM; ABSOLUTELY CONTRAINDICATED.
Lactation — limited safety data; AVOID.

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Frequently asked questions about Vinpocetine

What is the recommended dosage of Vinpocetine?

The clinically studied dose for Vinpocetine is 5-10 mg three times daily (15-30 mg/day total); some research uses up to 60 mg/day. Always follow product labeling and consult a healthcare provider for personalized dosing recommendations.

What is Vinpocetine used for?

Vinpocetine is studied for cerebrovascular insufficiency / stroke recovery (eastern european use), age-related cognitive decline, tinnitus. Established prescription use in Hungary, Russia, parts of Eastern Europe and Asia for cerebrovascular disorders. Multiple trials show modest improvements in cognitive function, neurological recovery after stroke. Western/US clinical adoption limited.

Are there side effects from taking Vinpocetine?

Reported potential side effects may include: Generally well-tolerated. Mild GI distress. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you have underlying conditions or take medications.

Does Vinpocetine interact with medications?

Known drug interactions may include: ANTICOAGULANTS (warfarin, DOACs, heparin) — additive bleeding risk; AVOID without medical supervision. ANTIPLATELET DRUGS (aspirin, clopidogrel, ticagrelor) — additive bleeding risk; consult. Consult a pharmacist or healthcare provider if you take prescription medications.

Is Vinpocetine good for cognitive?

Yes, Vinpocetine is researched for Cognitive support. Established prescription use in Hungary, Russia, parts of Eastern Europe and Asia for cerebrovascular disorders. Multiple trials show modest improvements in cognitive function, neurological recovery after stroke. Western/US clinical adoption limited.