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Танакан

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Танакан

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Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

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Overview of Танакан

Танакан is a specialized phytopharmaceutical—a medicinal product derived from plant sources—whose identity is defined by its highly purified and standardized content from the Ginkgo Biloba leaf. It is broadly classified within the pharmacological system as both a Psychoanaleptic and a Vasodilator, reflecting its recognized effects on cognitive and circulatory health.


Property Description
Active ingredient Standardized Dry Extract of Ginkgo Biloba Leaves (EGb 761)
Form Coated tablet, Oral solution
Pharmacological class Psychoanaleptic, Vasodilator (ATC: N06DX02)
Origin Natural/Herbal
Key Differentiating Feature Standardized extract, Clinically designated EGb 761

What Type of Medicine is Танакан?

Танакан is a regulated herbal medicinal product intended for oral use, manufactured by the French company Ipsen. Drawing its origin directly from the dried leaves of the Ginkgo biloba L. plant, this formulation is designed for quality and consistency. The preparation is often sold over-the-counter (OTC) in certain regions, indicating its established safety profile for mild conditions. This product’s specific manufacturing consistency provides a clear differentiator from other non-standardized Ginkgo preparations, establishing it as a well-defined medicinal agent.

The Composition: Standardized Ginkgo Biloba Extract

The active ingredient in Танакан is a meticulously quantified standardized extract, recognized by the clinical designation EGb 761. This standardization is critical because it ensures that the extract consistently contains specific proportions of marker compounds: approximately 24% flavonoid glycosides and 6% terpene lactones (including ginkgolides and bilobalide), guaranteeing therapeutic reliability. Танакан is supplied as a solid coated tablet and a liquid oral solution, with both forms containing the identical standardized active component. The extract is characterized by properties for increasing peripheral blood flow.

General Purpose and Action Principle

The general purpose of Танакан is to support the optimal function of the brain and peripheral tissues by acting on blood flow and cellular integrity. Its components exhibit vasoactive properties, which help enhance microcirculation throughout the body, improving the delivery of oxygen and nutrients. Additionally, the extract possesses significant antioxidant action, which is believed to contribute to neuroprotective effects. A typical use scenario involves managing symptoms of age-related cognitive issues or relieving the feeling of coldness in the hands and feet associated with minor circulation problems.

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What side effects are possible with Танакан?

The possible side effects and safety information for Танакан, which contains standardized Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761), are formally documented by regulatory authorities according to the following classifications:

Adverse Reaction Scope

The officially listed undesirable effects are categorized by the physiological system affected and their reported frequency:

Classification Adverse Reactions (Examples) System-Organ Class (SOC)
Common Headache, Dizziness Nervous System Disorders
Uncommon / Rare Nausea, Diarrhea, Abdominal pain, Allergic reactions, Rash, Pruritus Gastrointestinal Disorders, Immune System Disorders, Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders
Not Known Bleeding (Hemorrhage) Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders

Serious Adverse Reactions and Safety Constraints

The primary serious safety concern documented in regulatory texts is the risk of Hemorrhage (bleeding events). Although the frequency of serious bleeding is generally reported as Not Known, this risk necessitates explicit cautions in the product labeling.

Population-Specific and Contextual Restrictions:

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: The medicine is formally contraindicated and should not be used due to insufficient data to exclude risk to the fetus or infant.
  • Children and Adolescents: Use is not recommended in individuals under 18 years of age as regulatory data is considered insufficient for this population.
  • Pre-Surgical Use: Regulatory documents advise that the product be discontinued at least two weeks prior to any scheduled surgery due to the potential to affect blood clotting parameters.
  • Interactions: Caution is required with co-administration alongside anticoagulant or antiplatelet medicinal products, as this combination may elevate the risk of hemorrhage.

The overall safety profile is structured to highlight that while gastrointestinal and nervous system effects are the most commonly reported, the most critical safety management note concerns the potential, though rare, for bleeding complications.

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Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

The official regulatory profile for an overdose of Танакан (standardized Ginkgo Biloba extract, EGb 761) focuses on an acute exaggeration of known effects and the potential for serious complications.


Overdose Scope

Description Regulatory Statement
Documented Presentations Gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea) and Central Nervous System (CNS) effects, including headache, restlessness, and anxiety.
Physiological Systems Affected Primarily the CNS, Hematological system (bleeding risk), and GI tract.
Dose-Related Factors Overdose is associated with excessive ingestion. Note is made in official documents that consumption of the toxic raw or roasted Ginkgo Biloba seeds, which is distinct from the leaf extract, carries a high risk of poisoning, including seizures.
Population-Specific Note The risk associated with the toxic consumption of Ginkgo seeds is noted to be higher in pediatric populations.

Emergency Actions

Classification Official Mandate
Required Action Contact a Poison Control Center or a physician right away upon suspected overexposure.
Urgent Medical Help Required Immediate medical attention is necessary if severe bleeding events (e.g., hemorrhage) or serious neurological manifestations, such as convulsions or loss of consciousness, are observed.

Official Overdose Statements

  • The most severe documented outcomes include severe bleeding events and neurological instability (e.g., seizures).
  • Management for overexposure is limited to providing symptomatic and supportive treatment because no specific antidote is known.
  • Hospital monitoring may be required for continuous observation, particularly when severe symptoms are present.

Connection to the overall overdose profile: The official profile defines the immediate priority: any suspected overdose carries the potential for serious complications that necessitates seeking urgent, professional medical evaluation and care. Management procedures are focused on providing symptomatic support in a medical setting, as described in official labeling.

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Therapeutic Uses of Танакан

The standardized Ginkgo Biloba extract (EGb 761) is categorized for use with symptoms across three key therapeutic domains.

It is considered relevant for easing symptoms related to memory, attention, and executive function associated with age-related cognitive impairment. It is also relevant for neurosensory disturbances like persistent vertigo and continuous tinnitus, and for the discomfort of peripheral circulatory insufficiency, such as painful cramping (claudication) in the legs when walking.


Quick Fact: Relief for Neurosensory & Circulatory Symptoms

It is indicated for contexts where supportive symptom management is appropriate for chronic dizziness or the subjective feeling of coldness in the hands and feet, providing support that helps ease the overall symptom load. It supports the patient during difficult episodes by easing distress and is relevant for managing symptoms that interfere with daily comfort.

“The medication is considered relevant in contexts involving heightened systemic burden related to cognitive decline or chronic circulatory issues.”

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Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Official Regulatory Eligibility for Танакан (EGb 761)

This section outlines the officially documented rules for who can and cannot use the standardized Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761), based strictly on government regulatory documents.

Category Official Regulatory Statement
Populations for whom use is allowed Adults and Older Adults (Elderly) are the established target populations for approved uses.
Populations for whom use is contraindicated Pregnant women. Patients with known hypersensitivity to Ginkgo preparations or any excipient.
Age-related eligibility rules Use in children and adolescents under 18 years is not recommended due to a lack of sufficient data to establish safety and efficacy.
Pregnancy and lactation eligibility Pregnancy: Use is contraindicated. Lactation: Use is not recommended due to insufficient data on excretion into human milk.

Condition-Specific Eligibility Restrictions

The medicine is subject to restrictions and mandatory cautions in certain clinical contexts, as explicitly stated in the regulatory labeling:

  • Bleeding Risk: Use is restricted and requires caution in patients with a pathologically increased bleeding tendency (haemorrhagic diathesis), as the preparation may increase the susceptibility to bleeding.
  • Surgical Procedures: The medicine must be discontinued as a precaution 3 to 4 days prior to surgery.
  • Neurological Conditions: Caution is advised for patients with epilepsy due to the potential for Ginkgo preparations to promote seizures.
  • Metabolic Disorders: The tablet formulation is not recommended for patients with congenital galactosemia, lactase deficiency, or glucose-galactose malabsorption (due to lactose content).

Eligibility Summary: The regulatory profile defines eligibility primarily by patient age and physiological status, with absolute contraindications for pregnancy and hypersensitivity. Remaining restrictions focus heavily on conditions that increase bleeding risk or affect neurological stability, guiding when use requires explicit caution.

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What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Interaction with Coagulation Agents: The official regulatory profile notes that co-administration with anticoagulants (such as Warfarin or Phenprocoumon) and antiplatelet drugs (such as Aspirin or Clopidogrel) may carry a risk of increased susceptibility to bleeding. This risk is linked to an additive pharmacodynamic effect. Due to this potential, some national regulatory documents formally state that combination with certain blood thinners is contraindicated. As a procedural restriction, official labeling mandates discontinuation 3 to 4 days prior to surgery.

Pharmacokinetic Interactions: The product’s active component, EGb 761, has documented effects on drug metabolism and transport. It may influence the CYP3A4 metabolic pathway and inhibit the intestinal P-glycoprotein (P-gp) transporter. Concomitant use with Efavirenz is not recommended due to potential CYP3A4 induction leading to decreased plasma concentrations of Efavirenz. Caution is advised when co-administering with Dabigatran etexilate, as P-gp inhibition may result in increased exposure of Dabigatran. Regulatory sources also document a potential increase in the maximum plasma concentration ( C max) of Nifedipine upon co-administration.

Formulation-Specific Note: The oral solution formulation contains ethanol (alcohol). This content requires consideration when used with CNS depressants or medicines that provoke a disulfiram-alcohol-like reaction.

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Mechanism of Action

Танакан (standardized Ginkgo biloba extract, EGb 761) exerts a multifaceted pharmacodynamic effect targeting cellular and vascular components, particularly within the central nervous system and microvasculature. The flavonoid glycoside components function as antioxidant scavengers of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and modulate the activity of antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase. This action modulates the cellular redox state, which is a key component in the anti-apoptotic cascade involving the Bcl-2/Bax pathway and caspase-3 inhibition. Concurrently, terpene trilactones, specifically ginkgolides, act as antagonists at the platelet-activating factor (PAF) receptor, which leads to an inhibitory effect on platelet aggregation. This antagonism, coupled with the upregulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), modulates smooth muscle tone and vascular resistance, resulting in an increase in local tissue perfusion, particularly at the microcirculatory level. Furthermore, the extract components modulate key neuronal signaling cascades, including the PI3K/Akt and ERK/CaMKII/CREB pathways, which regulate neuronal plasticity and cellular resilience. System-level physiological consequences involve a widespread modulation of neurochemical transmission, including an increase in extracellular levels of monoamines such as dopamine and norepinephrine in specific brain regions.

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Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Танакан

This section describes the administration profile for Танакан (the standardized Ginkgo Biloba extract EGb 761).

Administration and Dosage

Танакан is intended for oral administration and is available in two main dosage forms: a 40 mg coated tablet and an oral solution. The total daily dosage, depending on the indication and regional label, typically ranges from 120 mg to 240 mg of the standardized extract.

Feature Use Description
Route of Administration Oral (by mouth).
Dosing Frequency The total daily dose is typically divided into 2 or 3 separate intakes and spread throughout the day.
Timing of Intake The medicine is taken with meals (at mealtimes).
Minimum Duration of Use Treatment for chronic conditions often involves a minimum course of 3 months before the response is assessed.

Preparation and Procedural Rules

Specific procedures are defined for administration:

  • Tablet: The coated tablet is swallowed whole with half a glass of water.
  • Oral Solution: The amount is measured using the provided dispenser and then mixed into half a glass of water before consumption.

Population-Specific Constraints

The product labeling outlines specific restrictions for certain populations:

  • Pediatric Use: Танакан is not recommended for use in children and adolescents under 18 years of age.
  • Excipient Restriction: The tablet formulation contains excipients (lactose) that make it unsuitable for individuals with congenital galactosemia, lactase deficiency, or glucose-galactose malabsorption.
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Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Танакан (EGb 761)


Evidence for Symptom Management in Age-Related Cognitive Decline

Research examined the standardized Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761) in older adults experiencing age-related changes in thinking and memory, including symptoms associated with mild-to-moderate dementia. Evidence involves Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses, where groups are assigned to receive the extract or a comparator, such as a placebo. Research explored outcomes reflecting daily functioning or activity level, as well as changes in standardized cognitive function scores that measure memory, concentration, and attention.

Studies described measurements of cognitive function scores over defined time intervals. Findings indicate that the observed patterns of change were varied across assessment tools and patient cohorts. Research does not determine whether an individual will respond similarly; findings describe group patterns, not personal outcomes. The research provides insight into short-term changes but the evidence contributes to the broader evidence landscape with specific limitations.

The follow-up durations were limited in many key trials, typically ranging from a few months up to about six months. This means that long-term effects are not fully established, and there is limited information for long-term outcomes regarding the sustained effects or the evolution of underlying conditions.


Evidence for Neurosensory Disturbances: Vertigo and Tinnitus

The extract was evaluated in studies focused on persistent sensory issues, specifically chronic dizziness (vertigo) and ringing in the ears (tinnitus). Research examined outcomes related to physical discomfort and systemic or functional imbalance, monitoring how symptoms changed using patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort.

For tinnitus, the findings were mixed, and data show patterns related to high variability across studies. Some trials reported no measurable difference in outcomes between those receiving the extract and those receiving placebo. Certainty remains low for this specific domain. The research highlights what is known — and what is still uncertain.


Evidence Gaps and Areas of Uncertainty

The scientific literature highlights several key areas where research is still needed. The evidence quality varies across studies and indications, making it challenging to draw uniform conclusions. A consistent limitation across all studied conditions is the need for more long-term follow-up data. Findings describe group patterns, and there are often limited data for certain groups, such as those with specific comorbidities. The results apply only to the populations studied.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Танакан (FAQ)

Q: What specific disorders or conditions is Танакан officially indicated for?

According to official European regulatory documents, the extract is indicated for the symptomatic treatment of adults with age-related cognitive impairment and mild-to-moderate dementia. It also has approvals for the relief of minor circulation problems, such as the sensation of coldness in the hands and feet. These indications are based on data supporting both well-established medical use and traditional use.

Q: How quickly can a person generally expect to notice any effects from Танакан?

Official product information indicates that treatment for cognitive symptoms should be assessed after a minimum course of three months to determine a response. For minor circulation problems, official documents state that if symptoms persist longer than two weeks, a healthcare professional should be consulted. This suggests that effects are generally not immediate, and the required treatment duration depends on the condition being addressed.

Q: Are there any common foods or drinks that should be avoided while using Танакан?

The oral solution formulation of the product contains a small amount of ethanol (alcohol). Official labeling notes that this content requires consideration, especially for individuals avoiding alcohol or those taking medicines that can react with alcohol. This warning is specific to the liquid formulation and does not apply to the coated tablet.

Q: Can people with high blood pressure use Танакан?

Official health monographs state that a health care practitioner should be consulted prior to use for individuals who are taking medications for high blood pressure. This is a procedural restriction that ensures the combination of treatments is reviewed by a professional to monitor safety.

Q: What warnings are included in the official labeling for Танакан?

Official labeling highlights several mandatory warnings and precautions. These include an increased risk of bleeding, especially if the product is combined with blood-thinning medicines. Caution is also advised for patients with a history of epilepsy or seizures. Additionally, the tablet formulation is restricted for use in patients with certain lactose-related metabolic disorders.

Q: Are there any common signs that Танакан might not be suitable for someone?

The medicine is strictly contraindicated (should not be used) if a person has a known hypersensitivity or allergy to the extract or any of its ingredients. Allergic reactions, such as rash or itching, are listed as rare adverse effects in regulatory documents. In the event of an allergy or any other concerning side effect, official guidance states that a healthcare professional should be contacted.

Q: Is it safe to drive or operate machinery while using Танакан?

Regulatory documents list headache and dizziness as common side effects of the product. If these effects occur, they may interfere with driving or operating heavy machinery. Official information does not provide specific instructions, but patients should be aware of these potential effects.

Q: If I am taking medication for depression, can I also take Танакан?

Information from clinical research protocols indicates that patients taking antidepressant drugs have historically been excluded from studies on the product. Due to the potential for interactions that have not been fully studied in this context, official guidance states that a health care practitioner should be consulted for personalized guidance.

Q: What happens if a child accidentally takes Танакан?

Official storage instructions state that the product should be kept out of the sight and reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. In the event of accidental ingestion, regulatory guidance advises that a poison control center should be contacted immediately, or medical assistance should be sought.

Q: Can people who have diabetes use Танакан?

Official product monographs state that a health care practitioner should be consulted prior to use of the medicine for patients who are taking medications for diabetes. This procedural caution ensures that the combination of treatments is reviewed by a professional due to the product’s potential relevance to blood sugar management.

Q: Is Танакан considered a prescription medicine or an over-the-counter product in my region?

The official classification of the product, whether it is available by prescription or over-the-counter (OTC), can vary by country. In some regions, it is approved as a regulated herbal medicinal product which is available OTC. Information on the local regulatory status is necessary to confirm its classification.

Q: What are the quality control standards for Танакан's manufacturing process?

As a formally regulated herbal medicinal product, its manufacturing is required to adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) as set by health authorities. Furthermore, the active ingredient is a meticulously standardized extract (EGb 761), ensuring a consistent and specific composition of key active components to meet therapeutic reliability standards.

Q: What is the standard regulatory approval process followed for Танакан?

The standardized extract (EGb 761) has gained approval based on different regulatory pathways. For cognitive impairment, approval relies on a principle of well-established use, meaning sufficient clinical and bibliographic data proves its efficacy and safety over a long period. For minor circulation issues, approval is often based on a traditional use pathway.

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How should Танакан be stored and disposed of?

Official Storage and Disposal Instructions

The storage of Tanakan must adhere to specific conditions defined by regulatory documents to maintain the stability of the medicine.

Detail Regulatory Requirement
Maximum Temperature Store at a temperature not exceeding 25 C.
Protection Keep in a cool and dry place, protected from direct light.
Child Safety Must be kept out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal Requirements

Tanakan must not be discarded in the sewer or with ordinary household waste. To ensure environmentally safe disposal, unused or expired medicine must be returned to a pharmacist for guidance on proper local disposal procedures. The product must also not be used after the expiry date stated on the packaging.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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