Cortagen is a synthetic tetrapeptide from the Khavinson bioregulator class, known for its neuroprotective and neuroregenerative properties. It is typically dosed subcutaneously at 1-2 mg daily, with protocols often involving a gradual increase in dosage over several weeks.
- Synthetic tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Pro)
- Research suggests neuroprotective and neuroregenerative effects.
- Dosed subcutaneously once daily, preferably in the morning.
- Reconstituted with 3 mL bacteriostatic water for a 6.67 mg/mL concentration.
- Typical cycle length is 4-8 weeks.
Reconstitution
Vial strength
20 mg
Bacteriostatic water
3 mL
Concentration
6.67 mg/mL
1 unit = 0.01 mL = 66.7 mcg
- 1Draw 3.0 mL bacteriostatic water using a sterile syringe.
- 2Inject the water slowly down the inside wall of the vial, being careful to avoid foaming.
- 3Gently swirl or roll the vial until the powder is fully dissolved (do not shake).
- 4Label the vial with the reconstitution date and store it in the refrigerator at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F), protected from light.
Dosing schedule
| Phase | Dose | On a U-100 syringe |
|---|---|---|
| Weeks 1-2 | 1000 mcg | 15 units (0.15 mL) |
| Weeks 3-4 | 2000 mcg | 30 units (0.30 mL) |
Protocol detail
| Start | 1000 mcg (1 mg) daily for Weeks 1–2. |
|---|---|
| Target | 2000 mcg (2 mg) daily for Weeks 3–4. |
| Frequency | Once per day (subcutaneous). |
| Cycle Length | 4 weeks standard; optional extension to 8 weeks. |
| Timing | Morning administration preferred; rotate injection sites. |
Overview at a glance
| Goal | Support neural regeneration, cognitive function, and cellular repair mechanisms. |
|---|---|
| Schedule | Daily subcutaneous injections for 4 weeks (can extend to 8 weeks). |
| Dose Range | 1000–2000 mcg daily with optional gradual titration. |
| Reconstitution | 3.0 mL per 20 mg vial (6.67 mg/mL) for accurate unit measurements. |
| Storage | Lyophilized frozen; reconstituted refrigerated; avoid repeated freeze–thaw. |
How it works
Cortagen, a synthetic tetrapeptide derived from brain cortex preparations, functions as a gene expression modulator and epigenetic regulator. It influences the synthesis of proteins crucial for neuronal growth, differentiation, and resilience to stress. Preclinical studies suggest Cortagen can elevate neurotrophic factors, diminish oxidative stress markers, and accelerate peripheral nerve repair. It has shown promise in improving behavioral recovery and protecting against oxidative damage in models of chronic cerebral ischemia by enhancing nerve fiber growth and conduction velocity.
Reported effects
- Supports peripheral nerve regeneration
- Demonstrates neuroprotective effects
- May enhance cognitive function and memory
- Shows gene expression modulation in tissues
Reported side effects
- Generally well tolerated with no significant adverse effects reported at therapeutic doses.
- Occasional mild injection-site reactions (redness/itch) may occur.
Storage
Lyophilised (unmixed)
Store at -20 °C (-4 °F) for long-term; 2-8 °C (35.6-46.4 °F) for short-term (weeks to months).
After reconstitution
Refrigerate at 2-8 °C (35.6-46.4 °F); use within 4 weeks and avoid freeze-thaw cycles.
Supplies
| Peptide vials | Approx. 3 vials (20 mg each) for a 4-week cycle; 5 vials for an 8-week cycle. |
|---|---|
| Insulin Syringes (U-100) | Approx. 28 syringes for a 4-week cycle; 56 for an 8-week cycle. |
| Bacteriostatic Water (10 mL bottles) | 1 x 10 mL bottle for a 4-week cycle; 2 x 10 mL bottles for an 8-week cycle. |
| Alcohol Swabs | Approx. 56 swabs for a 4-week cycle; 112 for an 8-week cycle (2 per day). |
Important notes
- Always use new sterile insulin syringes and dispose of them in a sharps container.
- Rotate injection sites (abdomen, thighs, upper arms) to prevent local irritation and lipohypertrophy.
- Inject slowly and wait a few seconds before withdrawing the needle.
- Document daily doses and injection site rotation for consistency and safety.
Frequently asked questions
What is the primary function of Cortagen?
Cortagen is a synthetic tetrapeptide designed to support neuroprotective and neuroregenerative processes, aiming to enhance cognitive function and cellular repair mechanisms, particularly in neural tissues.
How is Cortagen typically administered?
Cortagen is usually administered via subcutaneous injection once daily, with a preference for morning administration. It's important to rotate injection sites to minimize local irritation.
What dose of Cortagen should I use?
Protocols typically involve a daily dose of 1000-2000 mcg. A common approach is starting at 1000 mcg for the initial weeks and potentially increasing to 2000 mcg in later weeks, depending on the protocol.
How do I store Cortagen after reconstitution?
After reconstitution, Cortagen should be stored in the refrigerator at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F) and used within 4 weeks. It is crucial to avoid freeze-thaw cycles to maintain its integrity.
Educational reference only. These figures summarise how Cortagen is commonly described in research literature and supplier documentation, including the Cortagen listing at peptidesuk4u.co.uk. They are not a prescription, not medical advice, and not a recommendation to self-administer anything.
Related protocols
Neuroxelin (48 mg Vial)
Neuroprotective peptide blend for cognitive recovery after brain injury.
5-Amino-1MQ (10 mg Vial)
Inhibitor of NNMT for metabolic support and fat metabolism.
5-Amino-1MQ (50 mg Vial)
NNMT inhibitor for metabolic support, fat metabolism, and NAD+ levels.
Adamax (10 mg Vial)
Advanced nootropic for enhanced cognition, neuroprotection, and neuroplasticity.