SK Chemicals Launches Over-the-Counter 'Gineksin Memo Care Capsules' Containing Ginseng

SK Chemicals' memory decline improvement product 'Gineksin Memo Care Capsule,' released as a ginseng complex formulation. Photo by SK Chemicals

On June 10, SK Chemicals announced the launch of 'Gineksin Memo Care,' a memory decline improvement product with ginkgo leaf and ginseng extracts as its main ingredients.

Gineksin Memo Care is a non-prescription soft capsule containing 60mg of dried ginkgo leaf extract and 100mg of 40% ethanol-dried ginseng extract as its primary ingredients. The recommended dosage is one capsule twice daily, and the product is sold as a two-month supply containing 120 capsules (60 capsules × 2 bottles).

Ginkgo leaf extract is a herbal ingredient that helps improve cerebral blood flow, thereby supplying oxygen and nutrients to brain cells and reducing damage caused by reactive oxygen species through its antioxidant properties. It is known to help alleviate symptoms such as memory decline and dizziness. In particular, it is used to manage both cognitive decline and peripheral blood circulation disorders commonly seen in middle-aged and older adults, and it is also utilized as a complementary therapy in the early stages of mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Ginseng extract is a herbal ingredient that promotes energy metabolism, strengthens immunity, aids in fatigue recovery, and helps stabilize mood. Research has also reported that it may have a positive effect on cognitive function improvement.

According to overseas clinical studies, a group taking a combination of 60mg ginkgo and 100mg ginseng showed statistically significant improvements in various cognitive function indicators, such as working memory and long-term memory, compared to the placebo group. In particular, the Quality of Memory Index (QMI) improved by an average of 7.5%. The effect was observed as early as one hour after administration and continued up to two weeks after the end of administration. The QMI is a comprehensive indicator that evaluates a total of six items, including working memory, long-term memory, and recognition accuracy.

The new Memo Care product will be supplied through Cheil Health Science, which has a direct sales network of over 12,000 pharmacies nationwide. Through the launch of Memo Care, SK Chemicals plans to diversify the Gineksin lineup and further solidify the brand value of Gineksin as the leading product in the ginkgo-based pharmaceutical market.

Park Hyunsun, Head of the Pharma Business at SK Chemicals, stated, "The blood flow improvement effect of ginkgo extract works in various areas, such as memory decline and cognitive function deterioration, and shows complementary functions with other ingredients such as red ginseng, leading to a diversified market. Based on more than 34 years of proven efficacy and safety through prescription and use, we will strengthen consumer marketing for the Gineksin brand group and enhance its status as the leading brand for ginkgo extract products."

Han Sangcheol, CEO of Cheil Health Science, said, "It is very meaningful to have the exclusive sales rights for the first combination product of a mega-brand like Gineksin. We will do our utmost to further strengthen the market competitiveness of the product based on Cheil Health Science's sales capabilities and provide more treatment options to consumers."

Meanwhile, since its launch in 1992, SK Chemicals' Gineksin has expanded its brand lineup with various formulations and dosages. Currently, the lineup includes Gineksin-F tablets (40, 80, 120, and 240mg), Gineksin soft capsules, small-pack products for improved medication convenience (120mg, 10 tablets), and now, with the launch of Memo Care, the lineup has expanded to include non-prescription products based on complex herbal ingredients.