Product Review

Vinpocetine is an alkaloid synthesized from vincamine, a natural compound extracted from the leaves of periwinkle (Vinca minor L) which was first developed in Europe over 20 years ago. Vinpocetine is absorbed in the small intestine and then processed in the liver. Once in systemic circulation, vinpocetine is absorbed by most tissues in the body and crosses the blood brain barrier. Vinpocetine enhances healthy cerebrovascular blood flow, possibly by supporting cyclic GMP phosphodiesterase activity, allowing for healthy oxygen distribution to cells. Vinpocetine may also support oxygen release from hemoglobin, providing cells easier access to the oxygen they need. Furthermore, studies have reported that vinpocetine may provide neuroprotection via its antioxidant properties. In a double blind placebo-controlled clinical trial, 84 elderly subjects were given vinpocetine or a placebo over a period of 90 days. Results indicated that those supplementing with vinpocetine experienced positive cognitive function. An additional placebo-controlled, randomized, double blind, multicenter trial of 203 individuals suggested that vinpocetine significantly enhanced cognition and other subjective measures. Vinpocetine has the potential to support healthy memory, as indicated by a randomized, double blind, crossover study.*