Rheoencephalographic and psychological studies with ethyl apovincaminate in cerebral vascular insufficiency

The effect of ethyl apovincaminate (RGH-4405, Cavinton) on the rheoencephalogram and memory functions was studied in 50 patients with ischaemic disturbances of cerebral circulation. The drug was administered in a single i.v. dose of 10 mg and orally three times daily 5 mg for a month. Improvement of cerebral circulation was observed after i.v. and oral medication. Blood flow was most markedly increased in the gray matter. The effect on arterial pressure was negligible. Improvement of memorizing capacity evaluated by psychological tests was recorded after one month of Cavinton treatment, associated with alleviation or complete disappearance of symptoms. No side-effects attributable to the drug were observed. It is pointed out that Cavinton is indicated in the treatment of ischaemic disorders of the cerebral circulation, particularly in chronic insufficiency.