Ginkgo Drug for Cerebral Insufficiency: Use, Side Effects, Interactions

Ginkgo

Use:

Ginkgo is reputed to help poor memory, confusion, and dizziness. It is suppose to alleviate cerebral insufficiency by increasing the blood flow to the brain. It may also have an antioxidant effect.

How It Works:

Ginkgo appears to produce vaso constriction and to have some sort of antioxidant effect.

Side Effects:

Ginkgo can cause stomach upset, headache, and allergy. The fruit pulp and seeds are toxic if ingested. Bilateral subdural hematomas have been reported with chronic use.

Cautions for People:

People must realize that ginkgo may not "work".

Drug Interactions:

There are no known drug interactions.

Further Reading:

JAPhA 1996;NS36(1):29
Br J Clin Pharmacol 1992;34:352
Neurology 1996;46(6):1775

Added to Virtual Drugstore November 1996.

The relevant product monographs must be regarded as the appropriate sources of prescribing information.