Cerebrolysin
A mix of small peptides taken from pig brain. Used for stroke and dementia in some countries.
Quick facts
- Status
- Not an approved medicine
- Evidence
- Mixed (several clinical trials with inconsistent results)
- Taken as
- Injection or drip
- Common sizes
- 60 mg
- Category
- Neuropeptide preparation
How it works
It's thought to act like the brain's own growth factors and help nerve cells recover.
What people use it for
- Stroke recovery (approved in some countries)
- Dementia (approved in some countries)
What the research shows
Several trials with mixed results — a Cochrane review found no clear benefit for stroke.
Side effects & risks
- Dizziness and headache
- Agitation
- Made from animal tissue
Is it legal?
Authorised nationally in some countries (e.g. Austria, Russia, China). Not approved by the EMA centrally or by the FDA. Trial results for stroke recovery are mixed.
Storage & safe handling
- Mix with bacteriostatic water: let it run slowly down the inside of the vial and swirl gently — never shake.
- Store the mixed vial in the fridge and follow the use-by period on the label.
- Wipe the vial top with alcohol and use a new sterile needle and syringe every time.
- Rotate injection sites so the same spot is not used again and again.
- Put used needles in a sharps container, not the household bin.
- Get medical help for redness that spreads, fever, swelling or trouble breathing.
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Sources: Cochrane review of Cerebrolysin for acute ischaemic stroke (Ziganshina LE et al.).
Last updated 12 October 2026. Information — not medical advice. PepTimer does not replace a doctor. Many peptides are not approved medicines in the EU, UK or US. Talk to a qualified healthcare provider before starting, changing or stopping any treatment.
Last updated 12 October 2026. Information — not medical advice. PepTimer does not replace a doctor. Many peptides are not approved medicines in the EU, UK or US. Talk to a qualified healthcare provider before starting, changing or stopping any treatment.