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Cortagen
Neuroprotective & Cognitive EnhancersCortagen is a short synthetic tetrapeptide that exhibits neuroprotective and regenerative effects, particularly after injury. It has been shown to support cognitive function, nerve regrowth, and cardiovascular recovery. Used in protocols for TBI, aging, ischemia, and inflammatory neurodegeneration.
Reconstitute
3 mL BAC + 5mg vial
17 mcg/unit
Daily Range
0.05–0.2 mg Subcutaneous (SQ)
Once daily
Standard Dose
0.1 mg
Cycle
4–8 weeks
then reassess
Cortagenneuroregenerative peptidetetrapeptidenerve recoverycognitive enhancement
Dosing & Reconstitution Guide
Preclinical studies suggest potential effects on cortisol regulation. Dosing should not exceed 200mcg daily in research settings. Monitor for potential hormonal imbalances during use.
Standard / Gradual Approach
standardPhaseDoseVolume
Week 150mcg
Week 2100mcg
Week 3150mcg
Week 4200mcg
Protocol Summary
Subcutaneous (SQ): Once daily · Dose range 0.05–0.2 mg with gradual titration
Cycle Length: 4–8 weeks typical; reassess before extending
Frequency & Cycling
SubQ Injection
Inject once daily for 10–20 days. Repeat every 3–6 months depending on neurological or cardiovascular recovery needs.
🧪 Quick Start
BAC Water
3 mL
Potential Benefits & Use Cases
Cortagen is not approved for human use and should only be used for preclinical research purposes. Effects on cortisol metabolism have not been validated in human clinical trials.
Supports peripheral nerve regeneration with 27% increased growth rate and 40% increased conduction velocity (preclinical)
Demonstrates neuroprotective effects in ischemia by reducing lipid peroxidation and preserving antioxidant enzymes (preclinical)
May enhance cognitive function through promotion of synaptic plasticity and neurite outgrowth (preclinical)
Modulates expression of 100+ genes in cardiac and neural tissues (preclinical)
Shows structural and functional recovery in posttraumatic peripheral nerve cases (limited human data)
Clinical data Strong preclinical Limited data
Mechanism of Action
→Stimulates neurogenesis and axonal growth
→Enhances BDNF expression and synaptic plasticity
→Reduces oxidative stress and inflammatory markers
→May interact with mitochondrial repair pathways in neurons
Lifestyle & Optimization
timing
Consistent daily dosing schedule.
diet
Nutrient-rich diet (protein, omega-3s, antioxidants). Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol.
exercise
Moderate exercise 3–4 times weekly. Regular cognitive exercise.
sleep
Regular sleep schedule (7–8 hours nightly). Manage stress through meditation, yoga, or relaxation techniques.
Peptide Research & Preclinical Studies
Evidence-Based Research Findings
Study TitleType
Side Effects & Safety
🧮 Dose Calculator
Concentration
16.7
mcg/unit
Draw Volume
30
units (0.300 mL)
For a 500 mcg dose, draw 30 units on a U-100 insulin syringe
🧬
Bioavailability & Absorption
SubQ Injection
High local and systemic bioavailability when injected subcutaneously
Oral Administration
Not suitable due to peptide degradation in the gut
Half-Life
2–4 hours
Degradation
Metabolized by peptidases and hepatic enzymes
Tissue Specificity
Targets neuronal and cardiac tissues under oxidative or structural stress
⚗️
Peptide Details
Molecular Weight
504.58
Formula
C24H36N6O6
Sequence
Ala-Gly-Gly-Lys
⚖️
Legal Status & Regulatory
RegionStatus
FDANot Approved
EUNot Approved
AustraliaNot Approved
CanadaNot Approved
Storage Instructions
Lyophilized (Powder)
Store lyophilized powder at 2-8°C
Reconstituted (Mixed)
After reconstitution, maintain at 2-8°C and use within 21 days. Protect from light exposure.