Vinpocetine by Pure Nootropics

Vinpocetine is an alkaloid that is synthetically derived from the compound found in periwinkle plants, vincamine

• May improve memory (ref)*
• Supports cognition during age-related cognitive decline (ref)(ref)*
• Mood support (ref)*

Vinpocetine Mode of Action

Vinpocetine’s cognitive and memory benefits may be related to its ability to increase blood circulation in the brain, decrease the rate of neuronal death, improve intracerebral glucose, and produce long-term potentiation in the hippocampus (2). Memory improvement is also believed to be from inhibition of sodium and calcium channels and modulating noradrenergic activity in the brain (1).

Vinpocetine is believed to inhibit platelet aggregation and is therefore not recommended for those with bleeding disorders, or blood-clotting disorders because it may increase the risk of bleeding. Other functions involving blood flow are improved red blood cell formation and improving microcirculation in the brain, leading to increased cerebral blood flow. It may also protect neurons by preventing a loss of oxygen, due to the increased amount of red blood cells carrying oxygen that is available to the brain (2).

The nootropic benefits of Vinpocetine may be caused by cholinergic activity, modulation of norepinephrine effects on cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP, a messenger in the signal transduction pathways), and increased brain catecholamines (2, 3).

Vinpocetine’s bioavailability is significantly increased by taking it with a meal and raises the absorption rate up to 60-100% (2).

Vinpocetine Dosage

Pure Nootropics’ Vinpocetine provides 20 mg of Vinpocetine (extract from the whole periwinkle plant) per 1 capsule. Suggested use for adults is 1 to 2 capsules by mouth daily, or as directed by your healthcare practitioner.

Vinpocetine Side Effects and Toxicity

Vinpocetine is usually well tolerated. Side effects may include stomach discomfort, anxiety, vertigo, nausea, sleep disturbances, facial flushing, and headache (2).

If you are taking any medications, please consult your healthcare practitioner before beginning supplementation with Vinpocetine (2).

If you are taking anticoagulant/antiplatelet medications such as aspirin, heparin, Coumadin (warfarin), NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), Plavix (clopidogrel), Voltaren/Cataflam (diclofenac), Advil/Motrin (ibuprofen), Anaprox/Naprosyn (naproxen), and others, the risk of bleeding may increase and you should consult your healthcare practitioner before beginning supplementation with Vinpocetine (2).

Therefore, Vinpocetine should not be used by individuals with bleeding disorders, blood-clotting disorders, immunodeficiency/immunocompromised individuals, or those who have had surgery or will have surgery due to the risk of bleeding (2).

If you are taking any herbs or supplements, please consult your healthcare practitioner before beginning supplementation with Vinpocetine. Herbs such as angelica, danshen, clove, feverfew, fenugreek, ginger, garlic, feverfew, ginkgo, poplar, Panax ginseng, turmeric, red clover, and others, the risk of bleeding may increase (2).