Cerebrolysin — Neuropeptide mixture / neurotrophic agent
Cerebrolysin is a standardized, low-molecular-weight porcine brain peptide hydrolysate. It delivers neurotrophic peptide fragments (~25% of mass) and free amino acids that cross the blood-brain barrier. Its actions mimic BDNF, NGF, GDNF, and CNTF: promoting neuronal survival, synaptic plasticity, and dendritic arborization. It also suppresses excitotoxicity (glutamate-mediated), reduces amyloid precursor protein processing, and modulates tau phosphorylation.
Overview
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Compound Class
Neuropeptide mixture / neurotrophic agent
Mechanism of Action
Cerebrolysin is a standardized, low-molecular-weight porcine brain peptide hydrolysate. It delivers neurotrophic peptide fragments (~25% of mass) and free amino acids that cross the blood-brain barrier. Its actions mimic BDNF, NGF, GDNF, and CNTF: promoting neuronal survival, synaptic plasticity, and dendritic arborization. It also suppresses excitotoxicity (glutamate-mediated), reduces amyloid precursor protein processing, and modulates tau phosphorylation.
Regulatory Status
Not FDA approved in the US. Approved in Europe (Austria/manufacturer), Russia, China, and 50+ countries for stroke and dementia indications.
Evidence Level
High — multiple Phase 3 RCTs and a Cochrane systematic review (2020) for stroke/VaD; approved in Austria, China, Russia, and 50+ countries. Not FDA-approved in the US.