Rankings / Cognitive — Nootropics
Vinpocetine
Cognitive · Cerebral vasodilator
Tier C+
What this is
FDA 2019 statement that vinpocetine does not meet dietary supplement criteria (it's a synthetic drug). Still widely sold OTC. Cavinton approved in ~50 countries for cerebrovascular indications. Evidence quality mixed. Avoid in pregnancy — uterotonic.
Mechanism
Synthetic derivative of vincamine (from Vinca minor); PDE1 inhibitor; sodium channel blocker; increases cerebral blood flow; anti-inflammatory
Dose & route
15-45 mg/day PO divided
Citations
- https://www.fda.gov/food/cfsan-constituent-updates/fda-issues-statement-warning-against-use-vinpocetine-dietary-supplements
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12687346/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5566641/
Links go to the source. If a link is dead or you want something re-checked, let me know.
This is an independent synthesis of published research by a non-clinician. Scores are opinions supported by citations, not prescriptions. See the full disclaimer and methodology for how this score was produced and what it does and doesn't mean.