Drug Utilization and Real-World Therapeutic Outcomes of Ginkgo biloba L. Leaf Extract in Prevention and Treatment of Cognitive Impairment

Background Although therapeutic efficacy and tolerability of Ginkgo biloba L. leaf extract (GBE) in cognitive impairment have been demonstrated in clinical trials, its use remains limited in everyday medical practice. Nevertheless, rather than being part of standard treatment strategies, GBE is often used in self-medication. As the therapeutic benefit of any medication depends on its appropriate use, real-world evidence on drug utilization is essential to ensure effective and safe therapy. However, real-world data on usage patterns, perceived effectiveness, and tolerability of GBE are still lacking. Methods This study evaluated data from 191 users of GBE collected via the PhytoVIS study. Information included demographics, reason for application (prevention, acute or chronic symptoms), usage patterns (dosage, frequency and duration of intake) as well as therapeutic outcomes like perceived therapeutic benefits and tolerability. Descriptive statistics and inferential tests (Chi-square test, Mann-Whitney-U test, Spearman correlation) were applied to analyze statistical relationships between variables. Results Most participants (over 60%) used GBE for chronic symptoms of cognitive impairment; about 40% for prevention. Nearly all (97.9%) reported daily intake, with over 85% using GBE for longer than 30 days. Older adults tended to take GBE longer. Over half of GBE-users took less than the recommended 240 mg daily dose, especially women and participants over 75. More than 90% perceived a therapeutic benefit, and effectiveness was positively correlated with longer use. Tolerability was rated favorably with mild adverse events reported by only around 10% - serious events were rare and not clearly linked to GBE. Conclusion The study demonstrates high adherence and perceived effectiveness and tolerability of GBE. Variations in daily doses among certain groups warrant further investigation, especially regarding potential polypharmacy interactions. Despite this, the generally positive findings support broader consideration of GBE in managing and preventing cognitive impairment.