Supplement analysis backed by scientific evidence · PT

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Limited evidenceBrain & cognition

Vinpocetine

A semi-synthetic periwinkle alkaloid that is a prescription drug in much of the world and should not be treated as a food ingredient. The evidence for cognitive benefit has been inconclusive for over twenty years, and it carries a documented developmental toxicity risk in pregnancy.

What the science says

  • Cognitive impairment and dementia Limited evidence

    The Cochrane review of vinpocetine for cognitive impairment and dementia pooled three trials at 30-60 mg/day and concluded the evidence was inconclusive, with no reliable demonstration of clinical benefit. No adequately powered trial has been published since to change that conclusion.

  • Post-stroke cognitive function and cerebral blood flow Limited evidence

    Vinpocetine measurably increases cerebral blood flow and glucose uptake in imaging studies, which is the mechanistic basis for its use after stroke. Clinical trials in post-stroke cognitive dysfunction are small, mostly open-label and largely from single regions, and umbrella reviews of post-stroke therapies rate the supporting evidence as low certainty.

  • Product quality and dose accuracy Moderate evidence

    An analysis of US dietary supplements labelled as containing vinpocetine found the measured amount varied widely from the declared dose, with some products containing none at all and others delivering pharmaceutical-range quantities. Consumers cannot reliably know what dose they are taking.

Dosage & safety

Studied doseClinical studies used 5-10 mg three times daily (15-60 mg/day) with food. Supplements typically supply 10-20 mg/day. Given the drug status and quality problems, there is no dose we would call routinely advisable outside medical supervision.
SafetyContraindicated in pregnancy and in women who could become pregnant: the US FDA issued a 2019 warning citing animal data showing decreased fetal weight and increased risk of miscarriage, and concluded vinpocetine does not meet the statutory definition of a dietary ingredient. It is a prescription medicine (e.g. Cavinton) in Hungary, Russia, Japan and elsewhere, and is not permitted as a supplement ingredient in Canada. Side effects include flushing, hypotension, dizziness, headache, nausea and sleep disturbance; it may increase bleeding risk with warfarin, DOACs or antiplatelets, and should be avoided with hypotensive medication and before surgery.

Scientific references

Where to buy

Life Extension, Vinpocetine, 100 Vegetarian Tablets

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