Vinpocetine (vinpocetine-ethyl apovincaminate) is a derivative of a compound found in the leaves of the plant, Lesser Periwinkle (Vinca minor). It is a synthetic ethyl ester of apovincamine, which is a vinca alkaloid of the plant. Vinpocetine was discovered in the late 1960s and was introduced into clinical practice as cavinton (containing vinpocetine as the active ingredient) in Hungary for the treatment of cerebrovascular disorders and related symptoms.

A review of the mechanisms of action of vinpocetine summarized the five main pharmacological and biochemical actions:

• selective enhancement of the brain circulation and oxygen utilization without significant alteration in parameters of systemic circulation
• increased tolerance of the brain toward hypoxia and ischemia
• anticonvulsant activity
• inhibitory effect on phosphodiesterase (PDE) enzyme and improvement of rheological properties of the blood
• inhibition of aggregation of thrombocytes

In addition, neuroprotective effects via inhibition of operation of voltage dependent neuronal Na(+)-channels, indirect inhibition of some molecular cascades initiated by the rise of intracellular Ca(2+)-levels, and inhibition of adenosine reuptake have also been demonstrated. There also appears to be involvement of a prostaglandin-mediated mechanism which may be important in gastric mucosal damage. Furthermore, vinpocetine exerts anti-oxidant effects through hydroxyl radical scavenging.