Ginkgo biloba extract
EGb 761
“The Gink”
What it isEGb 761 — the standardized Ginkgo biloba leaf extract (~24% flavone glycosides, ~6% terpene lactones) behind most ginkgo trials; a supplement in the US, a prescription phytomedicine in parts of Europe. Studied in dementia/cognitive impairment and tinnitus/vertigo.
Why this oneThe pill is a cocktail: its pharmacology lives in the constituents — bilobalide (GABA-A negative modulator), ginkgolide B (PAF antagonist), and the seed toxin ginkgotoxin (vitamin B6 antagonist).
What limits itBleeding is the caution — additive with antiplatelets and anticoagulants; stop before surgery. Seed (not leaf-extract) ingestion causes B6-antagonist seizures.
Available strengths
- tab 40, 60, 120, 240 mg (EGb 761)
NO BOXED WARNINGS
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
Defining liabilityBleeding interactions and preparation-dependent seizure concerns