WhatPeptide

Cerebrolysin

Cerebrolysin is a standardized mixture of neuropeptides and amino acids derived from porcine brain tissue that is used clinically in some European and Asian countries for cognitive impairment, stroke rehabilitation, and neurodegenerative disorders. It contains low-molecular-weight peptides that can cross the blood-brain barrier.

Moderate evidence Unregulated Nootropic

Written by WhatPeptide Editorial Team · Last updated 2026-03-17

Half-life

Peptide components vary; overall biological effect lasts hours

Dosage range

5-30 mL intramuscularly in clinical courses (10-30 day cycles; literature context)

Administration

Intramuscular injection

Research level

Moderate

How Cerebrolysin works

Cerebrolysin exerts neurotrophic effects that mimic endogenous nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), promoting neuronal survival, synaptic plasticity, and cholinergic function. It reduces amyloid precursor protein processing and tau hyperphosphorylation in Alzheimer's disease models. Multiple randomized controlled trials support modest cognitive benefits in vascular dementia and stroke recovery, though effect sizes vary.

Also known as: FPF-1070, Brain hydrolysate

Research relevance

Cognition & Focus
Strong research relevance 85

Side effects & safety

Insomnia at high doses Agitation Dizziness Headache

Contraindications

Epilepsy at high doses
Renal failure
Known porcine protein allergy

Consult a healthcare provider before use if any of these apply to you.

Key studies

FAQ

What is Cerebrolysin? +
Cerebrolysin is a standardized mixture of neuropeptides and amino acids derived from porcine brain tissue that is used clinically in some European and Asian countries for cognitive impairment, stroke rehabilitation, and neurodegenerative disorders. It contains low-molecular-weight peptides that can cross the blood-brain barrier. Its mechanism of action is supported by moderate clinical and preclinical evidence.
What is Cerebrolysin researched for? +
Cerebrolysin has the strongest research relevance for Cognition & Focus. Evidence is supported by moderate clinical and preclinical evidence.
What are the side effects of Cerebrolysin? +
Reported side effects include Insomnia at high doses, Agitation, Dizziness, Headache. Key contraindications: Epilepsy at high doses; Renal failure; Known porcine protein allergy.
Is Cerebrolysin FDA approved? +
Cerebrolysin is not FDA-approved. It is available as a research compound or through compounding pharmacies in some jurisdictions.
How is Cerebrolysin administered? +
Cerebrolysin is typically administered via intramuscular route. Researched dosage range: 5-30 mL intramuscularly in clinical courses (10-30 day cycles; literature context). Half-life: Peptide components vary; overall biological effect lasts hours.

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