The hydroxyl radical scavenging capability of vinpocetine was studied in vitro by aromatic hydroxylation and deoxyribose degradation methods. Hydroxyl radicals were generated by the Fenton reaction. The effect of vinpocetine was compared to other antioxidants, to mannitol, vitamin E and dimethyl sulfoxide. The antioxidant capacity of vinpocetine is near to vitamin E, and higher than that of mannitol.