vinpocetine

Vinpocetine is a synthetic derivative of the vinca alkaloid vincamine, originally developed in Europe and marketed under brand names such as Cavinton for the treatment of neurological symptoms associated with cerebrovascular disease, including stroke and dementia[1][7]. It is also sold as a dietary supplement in some countries, often promoted for cognitive enhancement and neuroprotection[2][5]. Vinpocetine’s mechanisms of action include selective inhibition of Ca(2+)-calmodulin dependent cGMP-phosphodiesterase (PDE1), leading to increased levels of cGMP and cAMP, which improves cerebral blood flow by relaxing vascular smooth muscle[6][5]. It also blocks voltage-dependent neuronal sodium channels, reduces cellular calcium influx, exhibits antioxidant activity, inhibits IKK (thereby reducing NFκB-mediated inflammation), modulates dopamine release in striatal nerve endings, and has antiplatelet effects[6][7][8]. Despite its use for memory enhancement and neuroprotection in several countries over decades, robust clinical evidence supporting efficacy for dementia or stroke remains limited. In the United States it is available as a dietary supplement but not approved as a pharmaceutical drug; its regulatory status remains controversial due to safety concerns during pregnancy[2][4].

Brand names

CavintonKavintonCERACTIN

Other names

ethyl apovincaminateethyl apovincamin-22-oatevinpocetina