Cerebrolysin
- Half-life
- 12 h
- Steady state
- ~3 d
- Class
- Neuroprotective
- Category
- Peptide
Published population averages. Steady state is the usual five half-life rule of thumb, not a measurement. See peptide half-life, explained.
Overview
Cerebrolysin is a porcine brain-derived peptide preparation consisting of low-molecular-weight neuropeptides and free amino acids. It has been used for over 40 years in Europe and Asia for neurological conditions. The mixture contains neurotrophic factors that mimic the activity of BDNF, GDNF, NGF, and CNTF in a form that crosses the blood-brain barrier.
How it works
The peptide mixture activates neurotrophic signaling cascades (PI3K/Akt, MAPK/ERK) that promote neuronal survival, axonal growth, and synaptic plasticity. Reduces neuronal apoptosis, modulates glutamate excitotoxicity, enhances cholinergic neurotransmission, and promotes oligodendrocyte differentiation for remyelination. Multimodal neuroprotection rather than single-target action.
Half-life and peak
IV/IM administration with peak CSF levels at 1–2 hours. Effective biological half-life approximately 12 hours based on neurotrophic marker elevation. Typical protocol: 10–30 ml IV daily for 10–20 day courses. Effects on neuroplasticity markers persist days to weeks beyond treatment.
What it is studied for
Stroke recovery, traumatic brain injury (TBI), Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, pediatric developmental disorders, neurosurgical recovery, cognitive decline in aging.
Research status
Approved in over 40 countries for neurological indications. Cochrane reviews for stroke and Alzheimer's exist but note variable quality of trials. Phase 3 trial for TBI (CAPTAIN study). Not approved or marketed in the US. EMA-registered in several EU countries.
Sources
- Cerebrolysin in Alzheimer's — Cochrane Review · doi.org
- Cerebrolysin stroke recovery — Stroke · pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Neurotrophic properties of Cerebrolysin · doi.org
- Cerebrolysin CNS penetration study · doi.org
Educational reference only. This page describes what is published about a compound; it is not medical advice, not a recommendation to take anything, and not a dosing guide. Several compounds in this catalog are investigational and are not approved medicines. Talk to a doctor.