Cortexin
Aliases: Korteksin
Last verified: 2026-09-23
The short version
A polypeptide extract of bovine/porcine cerebral cortex — a Russian nootropic approved for brain injury, encephalopathies, pediatric epilepsy. Key fact: Russian studies; limited Western evaluation.
Identity & type
- Molecular type
- bioregulator
- Origin
- A polypeptide extract of bovine/porcine cerebral cortex — a Russian nootropic approved for brain injury, encephalopathies, pediatric epilepsy.
Mechanism of action
Low-molecular-weight neuro-peptides + amino acids; neuroprotection, neurotransmitter modulation, antioxidant.
not confirmed in humans
Dosing & routes
Official / clinical context
Approved drug — indications, dosing and warnings are defined by the official label. 5–10 mg IM daily for 10 days.
Regulator-approved labeling and published study designs — never a recommendation.
Community-reported practice
5–10 mg IM daily for 10 days. Russian/clinical reports: improved attention and recovery after neurological events; the community describes subtle effects, 10-day courses.
Unverified self-reports. Not medical advice. Not endorsement.
Expected effects (community)
Russian/clinical reports: improved attention and recovery after neurological events; the community describes subtle effects, 10-day courses.
Protocol — official vs community
Official / label
10 mg IM daily for 5–10 days; repeat courses per the Russian label, typically after an interval of weeks to months.
- 0110 mg IM daily, 5–10 days per course
Duration: Course-based; repeated courses are part of the labeled model.
Approved in Russia/CIS for brain injury, encephalopathies and epilepsy in children. The polypeptide cortex extract does not translate into Western regulatory review; outside the CIS it is a gray-market product.
Community (anecdotal)
Mirrors the label: 10 mg IM daily for 5–10 days.
- Cycle:
- One course at a time, repeated after reassessment.
- Break:
- Interval between courses per label practice; no continuous-use model.
Community use of Cortexin hews to the label because a label exists — rare for this class.
Human evidence
Russian studies; limited Western evaluation.
Preclinical evidence
The preclinical phase was completed and submitted to regulators as part of registration; pharmacology and toxicology details are part of the official label.
Known risks
- Rare allergic reactions.characterized
Teal: characterized in clinical/labeling contexts. Amber: theoretical or reported outside controlled settings.
Unknowns & evidence gaps
- Long-term human safety
- Optimal dose and pharmacokinetics