Vinpocetine is a derivative of an organic compound found in the periwinkle plant. It has been used as a drug in Eastern Europe.
Vinpocetine is used in health supplements today for enhancing memory and cognitive function.
A literary review of vinpocetine research suggests it has been shown to be beneficial in relaxing smooth muscle, blocking the aggregation of platelets, increasing production of ATP, dilating blood vessels, improving glucose metabolism, improving oxygen delivery, and improving blood flow (1,2).
REFERENCES
- Vlase L, Bodiu B, and Leucuta SE. Pharmacokinetics and comparative bioavailability of two vinpocetine tablet formulations in healthy volunteers by using the metabolite apovincaminic acid as pharmacokinetic parameter. Arzneimittelforschung. 2005;55(11):664-668.
- Vas A and Gulyas B. Eburnamine derivatives and the brain. Med Res Rev. 2005;25(6):737-757.
