Researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis involving 2,375 patients with vascular cognitive impairment. The study took place in China and examined an injectable medicine called Shuxuening injection. This medicine is a standardized extract of Ginkgo biloba leaves compared against conventional treatment.
The analysis showed that patients receiving the Ginkgo injection had higher scores on cognitive tests. They also showed better physical function and lower stroke severity scores. The overall response rate was higher for those who received the injection. Safety data from seven studies indicated no significant difference in adverse events between the two groups.
Despite these positive results, there are important reasons to be careful. The review noted methodological weaknesses in the included studies. There is also uncertainty about whether the Ginkgo preparations were the same across different manufacturers. Because of these issues, the certainty of the evidence is limited.
High-quality studies are needed to confirm these findings before they change medical practice. Readers should understand this shows a link, not proof that the treatment causes improvement. Further confirmation is necessary.