howtosupplement
Cognition/Heart

Vinpocetine

Synthetic periwinkle alkaloid studied for memory and cerebral blood flow in age-related cognitive decline, with mixed and dated evidence.

Vinpocetine

Vinpocetine

40
score
C
evidence
Caution
risk
Quick Take

Skip unless you have a specific vascular cognitive concern — evidence is old, small, and inconsistent.

Vinpocetine is a semi-synthetic derivative of the vinca alkaloid vincamine, derived from the periwinkle plant (Vinca minor). It acts primarily as a phosphodiesterase type 1 inhibitor, increasing cerebral blood flow and enhancing oxygen and glucose delivery to brain tissue. Small, older clinical trials suggest it may improve memory and attention in adults with vascular cognitive impairment or age-related decline, though systematic reviews judge the evidence insufficient. It may also produce mild hypotensive effects. Those most likely to benefit are older adults with cerebrovascular insufficienc

Proven Benefits

01
May improve memory in age-related d
02
May increase cerebral blood flow
03
May improve attention and concentra
04
May improve reaction time
05
May lower blood pressure

Protocol

Amount
5-10 mg
Frequency
2-3 times daily
When
With meals to reduce gastrointestinal upset.

Onset Time

2-4 weeks for subjective cognitive effects; cerebral blood flow changes may appe

Who Should Consider

Adults 60+ with subjective memory decline
People with cerebrovascular risk factors
Those with poor circulation symptoms like cold extremities

How It Works

Vinpocetine selectively inhibits phosphodiesterase 1 and voltage-gated sodium channels in vascular smooth muscle, producing vasodilation and increased cerebral blood flow. It also appears to improve neuronal glucose and oxygen metabolism and may reduce platelet aggregation, though human mechanistic data remain limited.

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