Cerebrolysin vs Cortagen
A side-by-side research comparison of Cerebrolysin and Cortagen across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Cerebrolysin | Cortagen |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Cerebrolysin (Brain-Derived Peptide Preparation) | Cortagen (Brain Cortex Peptide) |
| Category | Cognitive & Nootropic | Cognitive & Nootropic |
| Status | Investigational | Research compound |
| Mechanism | Contains fragments mimicking NGF, BDNF, GDNF, CNTF. Enhances synaptic plasticity, promotes neuronal sprouting, reduces amyloid-beta, and stabilizes calcium homeostasis. | Regulates gene expression in cerebral cortex neurons, modulating neurotransmitter receptor density, synaptic plasticity, and neuronal energy metabolism. |
| Molecular weight | <10,000 Da (peptide fraction) | ~420 Da |
| Half-life | 4-6 hours | ~2-4 hours |
| Bioavailability | High (IM/IV) | ~70% oral (as capsule); ~85% subcutaneous |
| Typical dose | 5-30 mL | 10 mg |
| Frequency | Daily for 10-20 days | Daily for 10-15 days |
| Route | Intramuscular or IV | Oral capsule or subcutaneous injection |
Cerebrolysin reported benefits
- Neurotrophic support
- Stroke recovery
- Memory improvement
- Neuroprotection
- Synaptic plasticity
- Approved in 40+ countries
Cortagen reported benefits
- Cerebral cortex optimization
- Cognitive function improvement
- Memory enhancement
- Neuroprotection
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Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.