NTP evaluates the fetal transfer of vinpocetine
The dietary supplement vinpocetine and its metabolite apovincaminic acid (AVA) were detected in pregnant rats and their fetuses in a toxicokinetic study following repeated oral exposure, according to National Toxicology Program (NTP) scientists. Vinpocetine is widely used for its ability to purportedly enhance cognitive function, including use by women of child-bearing potential. This study is the first to demonstrate the transfer of vinpocetine and AVA to the rat fetus, and suggests potential human fetal exposure to these compounds.
The NTP performs constant assessments in rats and rabbits to address some of the knowledge gaps in vinpocetine toxicity, including the potential for fetal toxicity due to exposure to vinpocetine during pregnancy. This evaluation will help to put any toxicity findings into a larger context by correlating internal exposure to vinpocetine with the toxicity observed. Overall, the comparison of rat toxicokinetic data from the current investigation with that observed in humans suggests that findings from the NTP toxicity studies may be relevant to humans. (AD)
Citation: Waidyanatha S, Toy H, South N, Gibbs S, Mutlu E, Burback, B, McIntyre BS, Catlin N. 2017. Systemic exposure of vinpocetine in pregnant Sprague Dawley rats following repeated oral exposure: an investigation of fetal transfer. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 338:83¬–92.