INTELECTOL TABLETS (Each tablet contains Vinpocetine 5mg)
Vinpocetine
What it does
Vinpocetine is a supplement often used to improve brain function and increase blood flow to the brain.
Commonly used for: memory problems, cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's disease, stroke recovery
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Source: Food and Drugs Authority · fetched 2026-04-18 08:48:57 · updated 2026-10-20 04:00:12
About this medicine
Vinpocetine is a supplement often used to improve brain function and increase blood flow to the brain.
What it treats
- memory problems
- cognitive impairment
- Alzheimer's disease
- stroke recovery
How it works
Vinpocetine helps increase blood flow to the brain, which may enhance brain function and memory.
Who it's for
This supplement is for adults looking to support their brain health.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: vinpocetine
BNF-referencedVinpocetine is a synthetic derivative of the vinca alkaloid vincamine, primarily used as a nootropic agent to enhance cognitive function and improve blood flow in the brain. It is often utilized in the management of cognitive disorders, including age-related cognitive decline and dementia, due to its neuroprotective properties. Vinpocetine is known for its ability to increase cerebral blood flow and oxygen metabolism, thereby potentially improving neuronal function and cognitive capabilities.
Indications
- Cognitive impairment
- Vascular dementia
- Age-related cognitive decline
- Cerebral ischemia
Dosage
Adults: The typical oral dosage for adults is 5 to 10 mg taken three times daily, with a maximum dose of 30 mg per day.
Mechanism of action
Vinpocetine acts by inhibiting phosphodiesterase type 1 (PDE1), leading to increased levels of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). This results in vasodilation and improved blood flow, particularly in the cerebral vasculature. Additionally, vinpocetine has neuroprotective effects by modulating glutamate receptors, reducing excitotoxicity, and enhancing glucose utilization in neurons.
Pharmacodynamics
Vinpocetine demonstrates a range of pharmacodynamic effects, including vasodilation, increased cerebral blood flow, and enhanced oxygen consumption in the brain. The drug also provides neuroprotective effects, which may contribute to its cognitive-enhancing properties. Clinical studies suggest that vinpocetine may improve cognitive function and memory in patients with various forms of cognitive impairment.
Pharmacokinetics
After oral administration, vinpocetine is rapidly absorbed and reaches peak plasma concentrations within 1 to 2 hours. It is approximately 66% protein-bound and undergoes extensive hepatic metabolism, primarily via cytochrome P450 enzymes. The elimination half-life of vinpocetine is around 1 to 2 hours. The drug is primarily excreted via the urine as metabolites.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to vinpocetine or any of its components
- Pregnancy
Adverse effects
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Gastrointestinal disturbances
- Flushing
- Insomnia
- Tachycardia
Interactions
- May enhance the effects of anticoagulants
- Caution with antiplatelet agents
- May interact with other vasodilators
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with bleeding disorders
- Monitor blood pressure in patients with cardiovascular conditions
- Not recommended for use in patients with severe hepatic impairment
Pregnancy
Vinpocetine is contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus.
Breast-feeding
There is insufficient data on the excretion of vinpocetine in human milk; caution is advised.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Tablets
- Capsules
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Molecular reference: vinpocetine
PubChem CID 443955Molecular formula: C22H26N2O2
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.