Peptide Profile
Cerebrolysin
Porcine brain-derived neuropeptide preparation containing bioactive peptide fragments of neurotrophic factors, used clinically in over 40 countries for stroke recovery, traumatic brain injury, and cognitive impairment
Dose Range
5-50ml
Frequency
Once daily
Route
Intravenous (IV) injection or infusion
Cycle Length
8-12 weeks
Onset
Moderate (1-2 weeks)
Evidence
Moderate
Compound Profile
Scientific & Efficacy Data
Complex mixture — no single molecular formula (contains multiple peptide fragments and free amino acids derived from porcine brain proteins)
Molecular Formula
Bioactive peptide components are all below 10 kDa (10,000 Da); the preparation contains a spectrum of peptide sizes
Molecular Weight
Approximately 15-30 minutes (IV administration)
Half-Life
~85-100% (intramuscular injection)
Bioavailability
Not assigned (biological mixture)
CAS #
Not available (complex biological preparation)
PubChem Status
Developed By · Research ongoing
Academic research consortium
Multiple research institutions
Primary Benefits
Amino Acid Sequence
Complex mixture of peptide fragments derived from BDNF, GDNF, NGF, CNTF, IGF-1, IGF-2, and other neurotrophic factors — no single amino acid sequenceDosing
How much
do I take?
Timing
Best time to take
Morning administration is generally preferred to minimize potential for agitation or sleep disruption.
With food?
Administration is by injection and is independent of food intake. No fasting required.
If stacking
If combining Cerebrolysin with other peptides or supplements, space administrations by at least 15-30 minutes when possible. Consult with a healthcare provider before combining with prescription medications.
Adjusting Your Dose
Increase if
- +You've tolerated the current dose for the recommended period without significant side effects
- +Therapeutic goals haven't been met at the current dose level
- +Your healthcare provider recommends dose escalation based on your response
- +Lab work or clinical assessments support a higher dose
Decrease if
- -Side effects are bothersome or impacting daily life despite management strategies
- -You experience any signs of an adverse reaction
- -Lab results indicate the need for dose reduction
- -Your healthcare provider recommends a lower dose based on your response
Signs of right dose
- ✓Therapeutic goals being met with minimal side effects
- ✓Stable and consistent response to treatment
- ✓Lab values or clinical markers trending in the right direction
- ✓Good tolerance with manageable or absent side effects
Dosing Calculator
Calculate Your Exact Dose
Step 1: Peptide Weight
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Suitability
Is this
right for me?
Best For
Post-stroke neurorecovery and rehabilitation support
Cerebrolysin is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on post-stroke neurorecovery and rehabilitation support. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Cognitive support in Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia
Cerebrolysin is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on cognitive support in alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Traumatic brain injury recovery and neuroprotection
Cerebrolysin is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on traumatic brain injury recovery and neuroprotection. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Age-related cognitive decline and mild cognitive impairment
Cerebrolysin is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on age-related cognitive decline and mild cognitive impairment. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Consider Alternatives If
Who Should Avoid
Do not use if
- ×Known hypersensitivity to Cerebrolysin or porcine-derived products
- ×Severe renal impairment or renal failure
- ×Status epilepticus or uncontrolled epilepsy
- ×Pregnancy and breastfeeding — insufficient safety data
Use with caution if
- !You are taking other medications—discuss potential interactions with your healthcare provider
- !You have a history of liver or kidney disease
- !You are elderly or have multiple medical conditions
- !You are planning surgery in the near future—inform your surgeon about Cerebrolysin use
- !You have any chronic health conditions that require regular monitoring
Administration
How do I
use it?
Reconstitution
What you need
- •Cerebrolysin vial (lyophilized powder or solution)
- •Bacteriostatic water or sterile sodium chloride for reconstitution
- •Alcohol swabs for cleaning vial tops and injection sites
- •Appropriately sized syringes with fine-gauge needles (27-30 gauge)
- •Sharps disposal container
Injection
Route
Subcutaneous injection (into the fatty tissue just under the skin)—allows for consistent absorption and can be self-administered at home after proper training
Best sites
- •Abdomen (stomach area)—at least 2 inches from the belly button, most popular choice for self-injection
- •Front of thighs—middle to upper portion of the outer leg
- •Back of upper arm—outer area (may need assistance from another person)
Technique
- 1.Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling supplies
- 2.Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and let it air dry completely
- 3.Pinch a fold of skin at the chosen injection site
- 4.Insert the needle at a 45-90 degree angle (depending on needle length and body composition)
- 5.Inject the medication slowly and steadily over 5-10 seconds
- 6.Release the skin fold and remove the needle, applying gentle pressure with a clean swab
- 7.Rotate injection sites to prevent tissue irritation or lipodystrophy
- 8.Dispose of the needle safely in a sharps container—never recap or reuse needles
Storage
Signs of degradation
Sample Daily Schedule
Safety
Is it
safe?
Safety Profile
Cerebrolysin is an FDA-unregulated neuroprotective agent consisting of porcine brain-derived peptides and amino acids that has been used primarily in Eastern Europe and Asia. Safety data is limited to observational clinical use and small open-label trials rather than rigorous randomized controlled trials with formal safety monitoring. As a complex mixture of undefined peptide fragments from animal sources, batch consistency and sterility cannot be guaranteed without pharmaceutical manufacturing standards. Potential allergic reactions to porcine proteins and transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE) risks from animal-derived components have not been adequately ruled out.
Evidence consists of observational clinical use spanning several decades in European and Asian markets, supplemented by small clinical trials (n<200) that are generally open-label or poorly controlled. No Phase 1 dose-escalation studies, formal toxicology assessments, or Phase 3 randomized trials have been conducted by Western regulatory standards. Published safety data is limited and primarily in non-English journals with methodological limitations.
Common Side Effects
Experienced by some users
Injection site reactions
Cerebrolysin is administered as an IM or IV injection of a porcine brain-derived peptide solution. Local reactions (pain, redness, swelling) occur in 5-15% of patients, particularly with IM administration. Reactions are typically mild to moderate, localized to the injection area, and resolve within 24-48 hours. More common with higher volumes (>10 ml) or faster infusion rates. Incidence increases with repeated injections at the same site.
Management: Rotate injection sites for IM administration to different locations (deltoid, gluteal). For IV administration, use large-bore IV catheter in forearm or antecubital fossa to minimize local irritation. Apply warm compress (not ice) to injection site if soreness develops. Topical analgesic cream may help. Reactions typically resolve without intervention within 24-48 hours.
Headache
Headache is reported in 10-15% of patients treated with Cerebrolysin, typically mild to moderate intensity. Usually occurs during or within 1-2 hours of IV infusion. Most commonly occurs with standard (10-30 ml) or higher doses. Mechanism unclear but may relate to hemodynamic changes or rapid blood-brain barrier penetration of neurotrophic peptides. Characteristically responds to standard analgesics and resolves within 2-4 hours.
Management: Usually transient and self-resolving within 2-4 hours. Acetaminophen (500-1000 mg) or ibuprofen (400 mg) may be administered. Reducing the IV infusion rate (give over 30-60 minutes rather than faster) significantly reduces incidence. Ensure adequate hydration before and during infusion. Headache on subsequent injections often decreases or disappears.
Dizziness and vertigo
Dizziness or mild vertigo is reported in 3-8% of Cerebrolysin patients, typically occurring within 30 minutes of IV administration. Episodes are usually brief (15-60 minutes) and self-limited. Related to transient hemodynamic effects or rapid CNS peptide influx across blood-brain barrier. More common with rapid infusion rates or doses >20 ml. Vertigo (sensation of room spinning) is less common than simple dizziness.
Management: Rest in supine or semi-recumbent position until symptoms resolve. Avoid driving or operating machinery for 2-4 hours after infusion. Slow the IV infusion rate—administering over 30-60 minutes rather than rapid injection markedly reduces dizziness incidence. Ensure adequate hydration and avoid rapid position changes. Symptoms typically subside without specific treatment within 15-60 minutes.
Nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort
Nausea occurs in approximately 3-5% of Cerebrolysin patients, usually mild and transient. May be accompanied by mild stomach discomfort or mild appetite suppression. More common with IM administration than IV. Usually occurs within 30 minutes of injection and resolves within 1-2 hours. Mechanism likely relates to the peptide mixture stimulating GI sensory neurons or mild hemodynamic effects.
Management: Administer with the patient in a comfortable supine or semi-recumbent position. Ensure adequate hydration before and after injection. Slow IV infusion rate reduces incidence significantly. Small frequent meals rather than large meals during treatment course. Ginger tea or peppermint may help symptomatically. Symptoms are usually brief and self-limiting without specific treatment; rarely requires antiemetic medications.
Agitation or restlessness
Agitation or restlessness occurs in approximately 2-4% of patients, more commonly at doses >20 ml or with IV administration. Characterized by nervousness, inability to sit still, or mild irritability lasting 30 minutes to 2 hours after injection. May relate to cholinergic stimulation by neuropeptide fragments or enhanced neuronal activation. More common when Cerebrolysin is given late in the day.
Management: More common at higher doses—consider dose reduction if significant. Administer earlier in the morning (before 2 PM) to avoid sleep disruption at night. Patients can engage in calm, low-stimulation activities during treatment period. If agitation is bothersome, healthcare provider may recommend dose reduction or slower infusion. Symptoms typically resolve without specific intervention within 1-4 hours.
Fever
Fever occurs in approximately 1-3% of Cerebrolysin patients, typically low-grade (38-38.5°C / 100.4-101.3°F) and transient. Usually occurs 2-4 hours after injection and resolves spontaneously within 4-8 hours. Mechanism likely represents immune response to foreign porcine proteins or pyrogenic contaminants. Higher incidence with IM administration and higher doses. Fever on repeated injections often decreases in frequency and severity.
Management: Monitor body temperature during treatment course. Low-grade fever (<38.5°C) typically requires no specific treatment and resolves without intervention. Acetaminophen (500-1000 mg) or ibuprofen (400 mg) may reduce discomfort if desired. Ensure adequate hydration. If fever is persistent (>8 hours), high-grade (>39°C), or accompanied by other systemic symptoms, evaluate for alternative causes (infection, etc.). Fever on repeat injections usually decreases or disappears.
Less Common
- •Allergic reaction
These typically resolve with continued use or dose adjustment.
Stop and Seek Help If
- ×Severe or worsening side effects that don't improve with dose adjustment or supportive care
- ×Signs of an allergic reaction—rash, hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing
- ×Your healthcare provider recommends discontinuation based on your clinical response
- ×Development of any new medical condition that may be contraindicated with Cerebrolysin
- ×Pregnancy or planning to become pregnant (unless specifically approved for use during pregnancy)
- ×Abnormal lab results or clinical markers that suggest adverse effects
Cerebrolysin should only be started, adjusted, or discontinued under medical supervision. This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Never stop a prescribed treatment without consulting your healthcare provider first, as abrupt discontinuation may have consequences.
Interactions
With other peptides
- ✓No known direct interaction with Cerebrolysin. BPC-157 is sometimes used for its gut-protective properties, which could theoretically help manage GI side effects.
With medications
- ✓Blood thinners (warfarin, heparin) - Monitor closely if combining with Cerebrolysin as interactions may affect bleeding risk or drug metabolism.
With supplements
- ✓Multivitamins - Generally safe to take alongside Cerebrolysin. Space doses apart if taking oral formulations to ensure optimal absorption.
- ✓Electrolyte supplements - Helpful if experiencing any GI side effects that could lead to dehydration. Safe to combine.
Effectiveness
Does it
work?
Evidence Level
Moderate human trials
What to Expect
Days 1-5
What you might notice
- •Acute neuroprotective effects begin as bioactive peptides cross the blood-brain barrier and activate neurotrophic signaling pathways
- •In acute stroke or TBI settings, early neuroprotection against ongoing ischemic damage occurs
- •Some patients report improved alertness or reduced confusion
What's normal
- •Initial response to Cerebrolysin is beginning at the cellular level
- •Different individuals experience Cerebrolysin's onset at different rates
- •Transient systemic effects from initial Cerebrolysin exposure are common
What's next
- →Maintain consistent Cerebrolysin administration as prescribed
- →Document subjective effects and physical markers daily
- →Schedule a check-in with your provider about initial observations
Days 5-21
What you might notice
- •Neurorestorative processes are actively stimulated including neurogenesis, synaptogenesis, and angiogenesis in damaged brain regions
- •Measurable improvements in cognitive function, motor recovery, or speech may become apparent
- •This phase corresponds to the standard treatment course duration
What's normal
- •Cerebrolysin is achieving sufficient receptor engagement
- •Initial mechanism of Cerebrolysin is taking effect
- •Early transient effects from Cerebrolysin administration are resolving
What's next
- →Maintain consistent Cerebrolysin administration as prescribed
- →Document subjective effects and physical markers daily
- →Schedule a check-in with your provider about initial observations
Weeks 3-8
What you might notice
- •Therapeutic effects continue to develop and consolidate after the treatment course ends
- •The neurotrophic and neuroplastic changes initiated during treatment produce ongoing functional improvements
- •Clinical studies demonstrate that benefits persist and may continue to increase for weeks after the last injection
What's normal
- •Cerebrolysin is now achieving steady-state pharmacokinetics
- •Measurable changes aligned with Cerebrolysin's mechanism may appear
- •Initial adjustment effects typically resolve by this point
What's next
- →Maintain Cerebrolysin dosing exactly as established
- →Track progress toward intended outcomes in detail
- →Review lab work or biomarker changes with your healthcare team
Months 2-6+
What you might notice
- •Sustained improvements in cognitive function and neurological status can persist for months
- •For chronic conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, repeat treatment courses at 2-3 month intervals may be recommended to maintain and build upon therapeutic gains
- •Long-term studies show that repeated courses can produce cumulative benefits
What's normal
- •Full therapeutic effects of Cerebrolysin are well-characterized at this point
- •Maintenance of Cerebrolysin's therapeutic effects is typical
- •Tolerance patterns with Cerebrolysin are generally stable over months
What's next
- →Comprehensive assessment of Cerebrolysin efficacy should be conducted
- →Discuss long-term continuation, cycling, or protocol modifications
- →Continue regular monitoring of relevant biomarkers or symptoms
Signs It's Working
Treatment Response
- ✓Improvement in the primary symptoms or condition being treated
- ✓Positive changes in relevant lab values or clinical markers
- ✓Consistent, stable response to Cerebrolysin over time
- ✓Reduction in symptom frequency or severity
General Well-being
- ✓Improved energy levels and daily functioning
- ✓Better quality of life related to the treated condition
- ✓Manageable or absent side effects indicating good tolerance
- ✓Positive feedback from healthcare provider during check-ups
Not Seeing Results?
Common reasons
- •Not at therapeutic dose yet—initial doses are for building tolerance, not maximum effect
- •Insufficient time at target dose—most compounds need several weeks to show full benefits
- •Inconsistent dosing schedule—regular, consistent use is crucial for optimal results
- •Individual variation in response—genetics, metabolism, and other factors affect outcomes
- •Underlying conditions or medications interfering with absorption or effectiveness
- •Improper storage leading to degraded product—always verify proper storage conditions
Key Research
"Cerebrolysin in the therapy of mild cognitive impairment and dementia due to Alzheimer's disease: 30 years of clinical use"
Gavrilova SI, Alvarez A, 2021
Finding: After 30 years of clinical use, Cerebrolysin has proven to be both safe and effective for Alzheimer's patients, especially when combined with standard brain-boosting drugs like cholinesterase inhibitors. The peptide works through multiple pathways—like a multi-tool rather than a single fix—making it one of the most promising brain protective treatments available.
View Study"Role and Impact of Cerebrolysin for Ischemic Stroke Care"
Mureșanu DF, Livinț Popa L, Chira D et al., 2022
Finding: Cerebrolysin's ability to repair damaged brain tissue works in both the immediate aftermath of a stroke and weeks or months later during recovery. The peptide's multi-target action on brain repair pathways makes it uniquely effective at restoring lost function while maintaining a strong safety record.
View Study"Cerebrolysin in Patients with Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis"
Kojder K, Jarosz K, Bosiacki M et al., 2023
Finding: When researchers looked at all available studies of Cerebrolysin in patients with catastrophic brain bleeding, the evidence suggested the drug could save lives by reducing mortality. However, the field still needs larger, carefully controlled studies to confirm this life-saving potential.
View Study"Neuroprotective strategies of cerebrolysin for the treatment of infants with neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy"
Fiani B, Chacon D, Jarrah R et al., 2021
Finding: Newborns with oxygen-starved brains can be treated with Cerebrolysin for up to 6 months after birth, and injections twice weekly helped babies recover better motor control and speech ability. This rare 6-month window offers hope for protecting developing brains from permanent damage.
View Study"The possible role of cerebrolysin in the management of vascular dementia: Leveraging concepts"
Al-Kuraishy HM, Al-Gareeb AI, Zekry SH et al., 2025
Finding: Cerebrolysin's brain-protecting peptides work against three major causes of vascular dementia: inflammation in the brain, damage to the blood-brain barrier, and chronic blood flow shortages. This triple action makes it a promising strategy for both preventing and treating this common form of dementia.
View StudyFrequently Asked Questions