Description
What is Vinpocetine used for?
Vinpocetine is a dietary supplement derived from the periwinkle plant. Vinpocetine appears to be a nootropic and an anti-inflammatory agent. Vinpocetine may enhance the blood flow to the brain and may possibly be effective for Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.
Vinpocetine has been shown to have neuro-protective effects. This product may improve memory and cognition, and may prevent the disability after an ischemic stroke. Vinpocetine also appears to be a vasodilator, which may help support the brain function.
Vinpocetine may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.
What is the recommended dosage of Vinpocetine?
The dosage of Vinpocetine prescribed to each patient will vary. Always follow your physician’s instructions and/or the directions on the prescription drug label.
Take Vinpocetine by mouth, along with food.
What if you miss a dose of Vinpocetine?
If your physician has instructed or directed you to take Vinpocetine medication in a regular schedule and you have missed a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the doses to catch up for the missed dose.
What if you overdose on Vinpocetine?
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of Vinpocetine, seek medical attention immediately.
What other drugs could interact with Vinpocetine?
- Aspirin
- Clopidogrel
- Pentoxifylline
- Warfarin
It may be noted that drugs other than those listed above may also interact with Vinpocetine.
Vinpocetine can interact with the following types of medicines: antiplatelet medications.
Usually drug interactions occur when it is taken with another drug or with food. Before you take a medication for a particular ailment, you should inform the health expert about intake of any other medications including non-prescription medications (over-the-counter products) and dietary supplements like vitamins, minerals and herbal, which may increase the effect of Vinpocetine, so that the doctor can warn you of any possible drug interactions.
Do let your doctor know if you smoke, consume alcohol or caffeinated drinks, or use illegal drugs as these may interfere with the action of your medication. Make sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions you may have, or any family history of medical problems. Do not start or stop using any medicine without consulting your doctor.
What are the side effects of Vinpocetine?
Like other medicines, Vinpocetine can cause some side effects. If they do occur, the side effects of Vinpocetine are most likely to be minor and temporary. However, some may be serious and may require the individual to inform the doctor or visit the nearest hospital immediately.
It is pertinent to note that side effects of Vinpocetine cannot be anticipated. If any side effects of Vinpocetine develop or change in intensity, the doctor should be informed as soon as possible.
Vinpocetine may cause side effects such as nausea, indigestion, dizziness, dry mouth, insomnia, headache, fast heart rate and transient low blood pressure. This is not a complete list of all side effects. Do concur with your doctor and follow his directions completely when you are taking Vinpocetine.
What are the questions to ask your doctor before taking Vinpocetine?
Is it possible for me to take Vinpocetine with other drugs?
Should certain beverages, foods and other products be avoided when I take Vinpocetine?
What are the possible drug interactions of Vinpocetine?
How will Vinpocetine work in my body?
How should Vinpocetine be taken?
How to reduce the risk of Vinpocetine drug interactions and side effects?
Note
- Before using Vinpocetine, tell your doctor if you have low blood pressure, heart disorders, bleeding disorders or seizure disorders.
- Avoid the use of Vinpocetine during pregnancy and lactation.
The health and medical information provided here is intended to supplement and not substitute for the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacists or other health care professional. It should not be understood to indicate that the use of Vinpocetine is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Always consult your health care professional before using this or any other drug.
