Cerebrolysin Review: Nootropic Benefits, Dosage, & Side Effects

Updated on May 18, 2023
 by — reviewed by Jason Williams, PhD (Contributor: George Collins / Editor: Yoko Hill)

In this Cerebrolysin review, we'll take an in-depth look at what this popular nootropic is. We'll also go over how Cerebrolysin works in the brain and provide information about its benefits, side effects, and where to buy it online.

Are you or anyone you know struggling with a neurodegenerative disorder? Over the years, advancements in research have led to the development of various pharmacological treatments.

One such potential breakthrough in the realm of neurological treatments is Cerebrolysin, a unique peptide-based drug.

Today, we'll examine what Cerebrolysin is, its potential therapeutic benefits, and any associated side effects.

So let's get started!

Cerebrolysin Review Summary

Cerebrolysin is a peptide-based drug that may have beneficial therapeutic effects on patients with neurological disorders. It has been studied extensively in clinical trials and is considered well-tolerated with few side effects. Its benefits include improved cognitive performance, enhanced mood, and increased alertness.

Cerebrolysin shines when it's stacked with a foundational nootropic like NooCube. If you want to improve your cognitive performance and protect your brain from age-related degeneration, Cerebrolysin is an excellent choice.

Pros:

  • Beneficial therapeutic effects on patients with neurological disorders
  • Has been studied extensively in clinical trials
  • Considered well-tolerated with few side effects
  • Benefits include improved cognitive performance, enhanced mood, and increased alertness
  • It can be stacked with a foundational nootropic like NooCube

Cons:

  • Has to be injected for optimal results

What Is Cerebrolysin?

Cerebrolysin (FPF-1070) is an enzymatically treated mixture of peptides derived from pigs' brains that contain BDNF, GDNF, NGF, and CNTF. These neuropeptides are essential for nerve growth stimulation and maintenance of healthy neurological functions.

cerebrolysin information

Cerebrolysin is a multi-modal neuropeptide drug that has been studied for its potential to treat neurodegenerative diseases. It has been found to have pharmacodynamic properties similar to those of endogenous neurotrophic factors.

This means it can stimulate the brain's ability for self-repair, which may be beneficial in treating conditions like Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and stroke.(1)

Although Cerebrolysin is not approved by the FDA, it is widely used throughout Europe to treat cognitive decline and other neurological disorders.

Off-label benefits of Cerebrolysin include the potential improvement of cognitive capacities, such as short-term memory and executive functions. This is why it is often referred to as a nootropic—a drug that enhances cognitive functions.

How Does Cerebrolysin Work In The Brain?

Formulated with both peptides of active neurotrophic activity and modulation, as well as free amino acids, Cerebrolysin is a complex compound that promotes multiple benefits to neuronal health.

Not only does it increase the survival rate and maintain the phenotype of high differentiated cells but also offers protection against harm while simultaneously increasing resistance to hypoxic conditions and preventing lactate accumulation (lactic acidosis).(2)

Cerebrolysin has been demonstrated to alter synaptic plasticity to protect neurons effectively.

To illustrate this, animal and in vitro studies showed a decrease of programmed cell death and free radicals production and an adjustment of the inflammatory response alongside decreased toxic effects from neurotransmitters (excitotoxicity).(3)

This mechanism of action ultimately facilitates neuroplasticity by working towards neuroprotection and controlling the number of synapses. Simultaneously, it also aids in reducing neurovascular reconstruction and promoting neurogenesis located in the dentate gyrus.(4)

The remarkable ability of Cerebrolysin to stimulate neurorecovery, in addition to regular stroke treatment, is why this potent medication stands out as an efficient choice for supplementary stroke rehabilitation.

What Is Cerebrolysin Used For?

Clinically, Cerebrolysin has been approved in many European and Asian countries as an injection for treating cerebrovascular disorders, such as acute ischaemic stroke.

cerebrolysin mechanism

Additionally, studies have also shown that Cerebrolysin has pharmacodynamic properties similar to those of endogenous neurotrophins, and can be beneficial in enhancing neural plasticity, neuro-regeneration, and neuroprotection in CNS diseases such as dementia.(5)

In dementia models, Cerebrolysin has been shown to reduce β-amyloid deposition and inhibit phosphorylation of microtubule-associated protein tau by regulating glycogen synthase kinase-3β and cyclin-dependent kinase 5 activity. Furthermore, it can enhance synaptic density while restoring normal neuronal cytoarchitecture.(6)

The protective consequences of these effects safeguard the neurological pathways, enhancing cognitive and behavioral proficiency.

What Are The Benefits Of Cerebrolysin For Cognition?

Cerebrolysin is a bioengineered peptide that has been used to protect brain cells and improve cognitive function.

It has been clinically proven to stimulate neurorecovery, reduce brain inflammation, induce protein production and growth of brain cells, and prevent the death of brain cells due to harmful conditions such as stroke and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).

The benefits of Cerebrolysin for cognition include:

  • Improved cognitive function in older people with memory problems
  • Reduced anxiety and depression
  • Increased alertness and concentration
  • Improved learning and memory abilities
  • Enhanced mental clarity

Where To Buy Cerebrolysin Online?

We recommend purchasing Cerebrolysin from CosmicNootropic. Their products are shipped from the United States and contain pure Cerebrolysin at a low price, starting from $69 USD. The shipping takes 2-5 days domestically and 7-14 days internationally.

Cerebrolysin is currently available from CosmicNootropic in 5 different options:

  • 10 ampoules x 2 ml (currently out of stock)
  • 5 ampoules x 10 ml ($99 USD)
  • 5 ampoules x 20 ml ($150 USD)
  • 5 ampoules x 5 ml ($69 USD)
  • 5 ampoules x 5 ml - 2 packs ($109 USD)

You can find more information about Cerebrolysin on CosmicNootropic right here:

What Do People Say About Cerebrolysin On Reddit?

Let's take a look at what people on Reddit have to say about Cerebrolysin:

According to DoctorNootNoot:

"Cere increases one's metabolism by a great deal. I eat more than I normally do and have still managed to lose approx. 8kg of body weight in the past 9 months, while maybe adding 1kg of muscle."

According to Anonymous:

"I can safely say that Cerebrolysin is by far the best nootropic I have ever used. This is only three weeks in, but my memory, recall ability, sensitivity to music, observance over my emotions, thinking faculties have all improved to a noticeable amount."

According to Jkdll13online:

"I just started taking Cere a few weeks ago and I am already noticing some improvements in my focus, energy levels and cognitive functioning. It's amazing the difference it has made to my life so far."

How Do You Take Cerebrolysin For Cognitive Enhancement?

Cerebrolysin is taken intravenously. The most common way to take it is in ampoules, and it should be administered subcutaneously, intramuscularly (IM), or intravenously (IV).

cerebrolysin benefits

The usual course of treatment is 4 weeks long, with 1 ampoule administered daily. It is usually taken in the morning or early afternoon, although it can be taken at any time of the day without food.

It is recommended to take a break from taking Cerebrolysin for at least two weeks after each 4-week course. This allows your body to reset and gives it a break from the effects of Cerebrolysin, allowing for better cognitive enhancement in the long run.

Cerebrolysin has dosing tailored to the individual's condition. The standard method for cognitive enhancement is intramuscular injections of 5 ml daily, with a course of treatment typically lasting 4 weeks unless your doctor specifies differently.

Here's an overview of how the Cerebrolysin dosing works for each condition:

  • Stroke: 20-50 ml for 21 days
  • Vascular dementia: 10-30 ml 5 days a week for 4 weeks, 2-4 cycles per year
  • Alzheimer’s disease: 10-30 ml 5 days a week for 4 weeks, 2-4 cycles per year
  • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): 20-50 ml for 7-30 days
  • As a Nootropic: 1-5 ml 5 days a week for 4 weeks

What Are The Side Effects Of Cerebrolysin?

The most common side effects of Cerebrolysin include loss of appetite, headache, fever, lower back pain, shortness of breath, chills, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, insomnia, agitation, burning sensation, sweating, weight loss, anxiety, confusion, and fatigue.

In rare cases, gastrointestinal disturbances such as dyspepsia (indigestion), diarrhea, and vomiting have been reported. If injected too quickly or in too high doses, Cerebrolysin can cause flu-like symptoms and hallucinations.

It is important to note that the effects of Cerebrolysin are not the same for everyone, and it is recommended to consult a doctor before taking this medication.

Caution should be exercised when combining Cerebrolysin with antidepressants, particularly MAO inhibitors, as they may interact adversely and lead to severe side effects.

What Nootropics Are Similar To Cerebrolysin?

Some nootropics that are similar to Cerebrolysin are:

  • Semax: It is a synthetic peptide that also has neuroprotective properties. Semax enhances cognitive function, memory, and learning ability. Like Cerebrolysin, Semax promotes neurons' growth and positively impacts brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels.
  • Cortexin: Cortexin is a nootropic peptide with a similar action mechanism to Cerebrolysin. It improves cognitive function, memory, and learning ability and has neuroprotective properties. Cortexin has been used to treat neurological disorders like stroke, traumatic brain injury, and dementia.
  • Noopept: Noopept is a synthetic nootropic that enhances cognitive function and memory, and it also has neuroprotective properties. Although Noopept works differently from Cerebrolysin, it has been shown to increase levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is important for the growth and maintenance of neurons. Unlike Cerebrolysin, Noopept is not a peptide complex but a single compound.

Semax, Cortexin, and Noopept are all similar to Cerebrolysin in their neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing properties. However, they differ in their mechanisms of action and chemical composition.

What Brain Supplements Can Cerebrolysin Be Stacked With?

Cerebrolysin's effects can be even more pronounced when combined with other brain supplements. One supplement that can be an excellent foundation for stacking with Cerebrolysin is NooCube.

NooCube is a nootropic blend containing 13 ingredients that can enhance the effects of other compounds. For example, it contains choline, a precursor to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh).

Acetylcholine is involved in many cognitive functions, including memory and learning. When combined with Cerebrolysin, the choline in NooCube can help to enhance its neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing effects.

Cerebrolysin and NooCube can synergistically affect cognitive function and memory when used together, making NooCube an excellent foundation for stacking with Cerebrolysin.(7)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Let's look at some frequently asked questions about Cerebrolysin.

Is Cerebrolysin Safe?

Yes, when used as directed and in the dosage range of 10-20 ml, Cerebrolysin is safe to use. It is important to consult a doctor before taking this medication as it may interact with other medications, such as antidepressants.

How Long Does It Take For Cerebrolysin To Work?

According to research, the effects of Cerebrolysin can be observed in just 15 minutes and are strongest 2 hours later. These positive results usually last up to 8 hours. Moreover, with continuous use, these beneficial impacts extend for months, although this timeframe is individualized depending on each person's case.

How Does Cerebrolysin Make You Feel?

Cerebrolysin makes you feel more alert and energetic while providing a calm sense. It helps to improve concentration and focus, and it can also boost your mood. It is important to note that these effects may vary from person to person. People taking Cerebrolysin for medical reasons report better memory, concentration, and overall cognitive function.

What's The Half-Life Of Cerebrolysin?

The half-life of Cerebrolysin has been reported to be approximately 5-6 hours. This means that after this time, the concentration of Cerebrolysin in the bloodstream will be reduced by half. However, the exact half-life may vary depending on various factors such as the individual's metabolism, dosage, and route of administration.

Conclusion

So what do we know about Cerebrolysin?

We know that it is a peptide complex nootropic with powerful neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing properties. It has been used to treat neurological disorders like stroke, traumatic brain injury, and dementia.

Cerebrolysin can be used independently or stacked with other supplements to get even more profound effects. When used as directed, it can help improve cognitive function and memory while providing an overall sense of alertness and energy.

It is important to remember that Cerebrolysin should be used only under the supervision of a healthcare provider, as it may interact with certain medications or supplements. It also has a half-life of 5-6 hours, so be sure to take it as directed to get the most benefits.

With that in mind, Cerebrolysin can be an excellent addition to your nootropic regimen. It has numerous benefits and, when used correctly, can help to enhance cognitive function and memory while providing a sense of calm alertness.

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