A nootropic and neuroprotective combination therapy. Piracetam is a synthetic racetam derivative that modulates neurotransmission and neuronal membrane fluidity. Ginkgo Biloba is a standardized herbal extract (EGb 761) with vasoactive, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties. This combination is primarily used for cognitive enhancement, cerebrovascular insufficiency, and age-related cognitive decline in the Indian context.
Adult: One tablet (Piracetam 400mg + Ginkgo Biloba 60mg) two to three times daily. Typical total daily dose: Piracetam 800-1200mg, Ginkgo Biloba 120-180mg.
Note: Administer orally with or without food. Take with a full glass of water. For best results, take consistently at the same times each day. Do not crush or chew unless advised.
Piracetam: Positively modulates neuronal and vascular function. It enhances mitochondrial function, facilitates interhemispheric communication via the corpus callosum, and improves neuroplasticity. It increases blood flow and oxygen utilization in the brain under hypoxic conditions. Ginkgo Biloba: Exerts multiple actions: 1) Vasodilation via inhibition of Platelet-Activating Factor (PAF) by ginkgolides, improving cerebral microcirculation. 2) Antioxidant activity via flavonoids, scavenging free radicals. 3) Neuroprotection by modulating neurotransmitter systems (e.g., cholinergic) and reducing neuronal apoptosis.
Pregnancy: Category C (US FDA). Animal studies show adverse effects. Human data insufficient. Ginkgo Biloba may have uterine stimulant effects. NOT RECOMMENDED during pregnancy. Use only if potential benefit justifies potential fetal risk.
Driving: May cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. Patients should not drive or operate machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
| Warfarin, Acenocoumarol | Increased risk of bleeding due to Ginkgo's antiplatelet effect | Major |
| Aspirin, Clopidogrel, NSAIDs | Additive antiplatelet effect, increased bleeding risk | Major |
| Antiepileptics (e.g., Carbamazepine, Valproate) | Piracetam may lower seizure threshold, potentially reducing efficacy of antiepileptics | Moderate |
| Antihypertensives | Additive hypotensive effect with Ginkgo | Moderate |
| SSRIs (e.g., Fluoxetine, Sertraline) | Theoretical increased risk of serotonin syndrome (rare); monitor | Moderate |
| Insulin, Oral Hypoglycemics | Ginkgo may alter insulin secretion/glucose metabolism; monitor blood sugar | Moderate |
| CYP2C9 Substrates (e.g., Phenytoin) | Ginkgo may induce metabolism, reducing efficacy | Moderate |
| Trazodone | Case reports of coma with Ginkgo interaction | Major |
Same composition (Piracetam (400mg) + Ginkgo Biloba (60mg)), different brands: