[Complex effects of cavinton on climacteric symptoms]

Area of Science:

• Gynecology
• Pharmacology
• Cardiology

Background:

• Hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) is not suitable for all women experiencing climacteric symptoms due to contraindications or poor compliance.
• There is an increasing interest in nonhormonal drugs with complex effects on overall body functions for managing menopausal symptoms.
• Vinpocetine, marketed as Cavinton, is being investigated for its potential therapeutic benefits in menopausal women.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of Cavinton (vinpocetine) in alleviating climacteric symptoms.
• To assess the complex beneficial influence of Cavinton on women undergoing menopause.
• To investigate the effects of Cavinton on lipid metabolism and cardiovascular risk factors in menopausal women.

Main Methods:

• A study involving three groups of women in early menopause: a control group (n=30), a treatment group with normolipidaemia (n=32), and a treatment group with hyperlipidaemia (n=29).
• Women in the treatment groups received oral Cavinton (vinpocetine) 5 mg three times daily for 3 months.
• Assessments included the Kupperman menopausal index, Hamilton-Anxiety-Skala (HAMA), lipid profiles (total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides), atherogenic indexes, and blood vessel reactivity (pulsation index).

Main Results:

• The 3rd group (hyperlipidaemia) showed a statistically significant decrease in total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol levels, along with improved atherogenic indexes.
• Both Kupperman index and HAMA scores significantly decreased in women receiving Cavinton by the 45th day and at the 3-month mark.
• No significant changes in pulsation index were observed, though a trend towards decrease was noted in the hyperlipidaemia group.

Conclusions:

• Cavinton (vinpocetine) demonstrates complex beneficial effects in climacteric women.
• The drug significantly ameliorates menopausal symptoms and positively influences lipid metabolism parameters, particularly in women with hyperlipidaemia.
• Cavinton presents a viable nonhormonal therapeutic option for managing menopausal complaints and associated metabolic disturbances.