Cerebrolysin
Also known as: Cerebrolysin
A peptide preparation derived from porcine brain tissue with neurotrophic and neuroprotective properties, used clinically in several countries for stroke, dementia, and traumatic brain injury.
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Mechanism of Action
Cerebrolysin is a mixture of low-molecular-weight peptides and amino acids derived from purified pig brain proteins that mimics endogenous neurotrophic factors. It is thought to promote neuronal survival, synaptic plasticity, and neurogenesis, partly by acting like neurotrophins such as BDNF and GDNF. It also reduces excitotoxicity and oxidative stress, supporting its clinical use in neurodegenerative and ischemic conditions.
- Half-life
- Variable; mixture of peptides with differing kinetics
- Administration Routes
- intravenous, intramuscular
- Research Status
- Research Chemical
Reported Benefits
- Neurotrophic and neuroprotective effects
- Used clinically for stroke, dementia, and TBI in some countries
- May support cognition and recovery after brain injury
- Promotes synaptic plasticity and neurogenesis
- Reduces excitotoxicity and oxidative stress
Potential Side Effects
- Injection-site reactions
- Dizziness, headache, or agitation
- Rare allergic reactions (animal-derived)
- Must be administered carefully; often given IV in clinical settings
Common Dosing
Clinical regimens reference ~5-30 mL daily IV/IM courses over several weeks, depending on indication. Stated as clinical reference, not personal advice.
The dosing information above is aggregated from research literature and anecdotal community reports for educational purposes only. It is not a recommendation, prescription, or medical advice. Peptides are sold as research chemicals only and are not intended for human use.
Contraindications
- Severe renal impairment
- Status epilepticus or active seizures
- Known hypersensitivity to the preparation
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
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Cerebrolysin for vascular dementia
2019
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[Cerebrolysin for acute ischemic stroke]
2013
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Cerebrolysin for acute ischaemic stroke
2023
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Cerebrolysin in mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials
2015
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Cerebrolysin in Patients with TBI: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
2023