Cerebrolysin
Cerebrolysin (porcine brain-derived neuropeptides)
A standardized mixture of neuropeptides used clinically in many countries for stroke, dementia, and TBI.
Overview
Cerebrolysin is a preparation of low-molecular-weight neuropeptides and amino acids derived from porcine brain. Used in 30-plus countries for decades for ischemic stroke, vascular dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and TBI, its neurotrophic mixture mimics several endogenous growth factors. It is not FDA-approved.
Mechanism of action
Its neuropeptide fractions mimic neurotrophic factors such as BDNF and NGF and activate neuroprotective signaling pathways in the brain.
Key studies & citations
- Review2023
Cerebrolysin for acute ischaemic stroke
Cochrane update covering seven RCTs (1,773 participants) of Cerebrolysin started within 48 hours of stroke; the reviewers found no convincing benefit on mortality or function and flagged low-certainty evidence.
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews - Human2012
Cerebrolysin in patients with acute ischemic stroke in Asia: results of a double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized trial (CASTA)
1,070 patients: the confirmatory combined endpoint showed no significant difference versus placebo; a post hoc analysis suggested a trend toward benefit in severe strokes (NIHSS above 12).
Stroke - Review2019
Cerebrolysin for vascular dementia
Updated Cochrane review of Cerebrolysin in vascular dementia assessing cognition, global function and mortality, noting inconsistent prior results and limited-quality trials.
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
Frequently asked questions
Is Cerebrolysin proven for Alzheimer's disease?
It is used for dementia in several countries and has supportive trials, but the evidence base is debated and it is not FDA-approved.