Ginkgo Biloba (herbal supplement, vasoactive agent)

Ginkgo biloba is a traditional Chinese medicine. In modern times, ginkgo has gained notoriety as a brain booster that is touted to improve memory, mental acuity, and maintain the health of neurons. Other uses of ginkgo include easing pain and treating vascular diseases.

Uses

What is Ginkgo biloba used for?

While not entirely proven, ginkgo is said to treat or improve:

How should I take Ginkgo biloba?

Read the directions on the packaging for complete information. Check the label and expiration date.

Swallow it whole without chewing, crushing, or dissolving it in liquid. It is best taken with meals.

How do I store Ginkgo biloba?

This product is best stored at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store it in the bathroom or the freezer. 

There may be different brands of this drug that may have different storage needs. So, it is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.

You should not flush this product down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Additionally, it is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Precautions & warnings

What should I know before using Ginkgo biloba?

Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are/have:

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Unfortunately, there isn’t enough information about the safety of using this drug during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Please always consult with your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before taking any medication.

Side effects

What side effects can occur from Ginkgo biloba?

Like all drugs, this product may have side effects. If they occur, side effects are generally mild and resolve once treatment is finished or the dose is lowered. Some reported side effects include:

• Upper abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Headaches
• Hives
• Itching
• Rash
• Allergic reactions

However, not everyone experiences these side effects. In addition, some people may experience other side effects. So, if you have any concerns about a side effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Interactions

What drugs may interact with Ginkgo biloba?

This medication may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. 

To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. 

Drugs with known interactions:

• Antidepressants
• Antidiabetic agents
• Anticonvulsants
• Anxiolytics (anti-anxiety)
• Blood thinners (e.g. anticoagulants, anti-platelets, garlic supplements)
• NSAIDs (e.g. aspirin, ibuprofen, mefenamic acid)

If you experience an adverse drug interaction, inform your doctor immediately to reevaluate your treatment plan. Approaches include dose adjustment, drug substitution, or ending therapy.

Does food or alcohol interact with Ginkgo biloba?

This drug may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this drug. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.

What health conditions may interact with Ginkgo biloba?

This drug may interact with underlying conditions. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. Therefore, it is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have, especially:

• Bleeding disorders
• Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
• Hypertension
• Seizure disorders
• Any condition that requires surgery

Dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. Therefore, you should always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.

What is the dose for an adult?

There are no standardized doses of ginkgo, however, these are the suggested doses to treat certain illnesses:

• Dementia: 120-240 mg daily in 1-2 divided doses.
• Vascular diseases and vertigo: 120-240 mg daily in 1-2 divided doses.

What is the dose for a child?

There is no established pediatric dose. It may be unsafe for your child. It is always important to fully understand the safety of the drug before using. Please consult with your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How is Ginkgo biloba available?

Ginkgo biloba is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:

• Tebokan 40 mg of Ginkgo biloba EGb 761
• Tebonin Forte FC 120 mg of Ginkgo biloba EGb 761

What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.