Vinpocetine
Information about Vinpocetine
Vinpocetine uses
Vinpocetine is used in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, stroke, dementia in Parkinson's disease, age related memory loss and head injury.
How vinpocetine works
Vinpocetine is semisynthetic alkaloid. It has a nootropic (protects nerves and the brain) effect. It inhibits the voltage-dependent neuronal sodium channels, which in turn enhances a chemical messenger (intracellular cGMP levels) in the brain. Thus, increases blood flow within the brain. This is how it prevents the destruction of never cells (neurons) and protects the brain. Thus, helps enhancement of the nervous system. It also has an antioxidant property. This works by oxidizing the free radicals (toxins) in the body.
Common side effects of vinpocetine
Dizziness, Dryness in mouth, Flushing (sense of warmth in the face, ears, neck and trunk), Headache, Insomnia (difficulty in sleeping), Nausea, Stomach pain, Nervousness
Available Medicine for Vinpocetine
Expert advice for Vinpocetine
- Take it with food or as suggested by your doctor.
- It may make you feel dizzy. Do not drive or do anything requiring mental focus until you know how it affects you.
- Avoid alcohol while taking Vinpocetine as it may cause increased dizziness.
- Inform your doctor if you suffer from any bleeding or heart disorder, hypertension or are taking anticoagulant medications such as warfarin and heparin.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions for Vinpocetine
Vinpocetine
Q. Can Vinpocetine affect blood pressure?
Yes, Vinpocetine may affect blood pressure by causing an increase or decrease in the levels. This change in blood pressure level is only for short duration. Further, if you have any concerns regarding changes in blood pressure consult your doctor.
Q. Is Vinpocetine a blood thinner?
Yes, Vinpocetine is a blood thinner. This group of medicine prevent the formation of blood clots and the existing blood clots from getting larger. Hence, this property of Vinpocetine proves to be helpful in strokes.
Q. What are the side effects of Vinpocetine?
The side effects of Vinpocetine include nausea, dizziness, difficulty falling asleep, dry mouth, headaches, facial flushing, and heartburn. Some may experience a decrease in blood pressure or increase in heartbeat, though these are for a brief time. Prolonged use of Vinpocetine may also be associated with slight reductions in blood glucose levels.