Vinpocetine Side Effects, Interactions and Warnings

Vinpocetine side effects are generally mild when supplementing with this herbal extract at appropriate dosages. Vinpocetine is a compound that is derived from the Periwinkle plant.

It is a popular nootropic supplement, used to support cognitive function, memory and blood flow to the brain. This supplement is also used in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, Dementia, stroke, cerebrovascular disease and for protecting against age-related cognitive decline.

Vinpocetine is believed to have a positive effect on brain health and may offer anti-aging benefits. In research trials, it exhibits effects on cognitive processing speed, dopaminergic and glutaminergic neurotransmission, GABAergic neurotransmission, atherosclerosis, cardiovascular health, hearing and ear health, and for liver health.

Most studies have reported no adverse Vinpocetine effects from short-term, oral administration. However, it is contraindicated for people with bleeding disorders, immunodeficiency and with individuals taking anticoagulant drugs or supplements and Warfarin (Coumadin).

Vinpocetine

Herbal Supplement

Mental Energy

Memory

Brain Health

How It Works:

• Increases blood flow & brain metabolism
• Supports energy, focus & memory
• Combats free radicals & oxidative damage

Dosage:

Between 10 - 60 mg per day

Safety:

Rated Possibly Safe

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Vinpocetine Side Effects: Safety Potentials

When used appropriately and orally, vinpocetine is classified as Possibly Safe by the Natural Medicines Database.

In studies involving patients with Alzheimer’s disease, no serious adverse effects were noted when taking 60 mg daily for 12 consecutive months.

Mild side effects reported including stomach upset, low blood pressure, rash or hives, rapid heart rate or dry moth.

Vinpocetine side effects are also unlikely when administration is injected, as long as usage is short-term and appropriate.

Not enough is known about the safety of Vinpocetine for women who are pregnant or lactating. Out of an abundance of caution, usage is not recommended for pregnant or nursing women.

In rare cases, adverse dermatologic, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, neurologic and hematologic side effects have been reported. These include:

• Tachycardia, mild hypotension, heart palpitations and/or multifocal extrasystoles;
• Ventricular arrhythmias and/or atrial fibrillations;
• Flushing of skin and/or urticaria (rash, welts);
• Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pains, diarrhea, stomach pressure, flatulence and/or generalized gastrointestinal distress;
• Dry mouth, swallowing difficulties, slowed digestion;
• A hematological disorder called agranulocytosis which greatly reduces leukocyte counts (one case only);
• Headaches, drowsiness and/or dizziness;
• Excitation, difficulties sleeping and/or nervousness;
• Vertigo and/or epileptiform convulsions;

Other adverse vinpocetine side effects have occurred when dosing was administered intravenously. Extreme drops in blood pressure and very low pulse rates have resulted in death. These effects have never been noted in cases of oral administration at appropriate doses. Further research is required in order to determine the safety profile of vinpocetine.

Safe Dosages of Vinpocetine

Vinpoceine tablets are typically taken at a dosage of between 10 – 60 mg per day. This dosage is usually split into one to three administrations a day. It does not need to be taken with food. Some users recommend taking your dosage early in the day to avoid disturbances to sleep patterns.

To increase effectiveness, this supplement is typically combined with Ginkgo Biloba, Bacopa Monnieri, Choline, and Huperzine A. Speak to your doctor before stacking Vinpocetine with other nootropic supplements. The risk of side effects may be increased when using multiple supplements together.

Overview of Vinpocetine Use

Vinpocetine is synthesized from a molecule called vincamine found in the Periwinkle plant.

Vincamine has been used historically in Europe for preventing and treating various health maladies; specifically for epilepsy, declining cognitive capacities and recovery from stroke.

However, vincamine was observed to have a greater risk of side effects on the liver. Vinpocetine, which is a purer form of this alkaloid, does not pose the same liver risks, making it safer for long-term use.

Today, many supplement with vinpocetine to improve memory, and to support cognitive capacities in general. In Eastern Europe, Vinpocetine is sold as a prescription drug under the name Cavinton Forte. It is used for the treatment of cerebrovascular disorder and cognitive decline associated with aging.

Positive Effects of Vinpocetine

Vinpocetine exhibits neuroprotective effects, especially concerning cognitive decline resulting from neurotoxicity. Vinpocetine has demonstrated an ability to protect against the onset of amnesia and cognitive decline induced by certain drugs.

This herbal extract may also reduce neuroinflammation. It has been observed to increase blood circulation to the brain due to its effects as a cerebrovasodilator. This means that it causes blood vessels in the brain to dilate, resulting in increased oxygen and nutrient delivery.

Increased blood flow to the brain may improve various cognitive performance markers, like reaction times, processing speed, memory and more. This supplement also exhibits anti-oxidant effects and may slow down signs of aging in brain cells.

Conclusions about Vinpocetine Side Effects

Vinpocetine is an effective cognitive enhancer that is used to support circulation to the brain and cognitive health. It may have benefits for memory, attention, and mental processing speed.

It is generally well tolerated, presenting few adverse effects when used orally at appropriate dosages. For those concerned about possible vinpocetine side effects, please consult with your doctor to discuss the specifics as they may pertain to your unique health conditions.

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