Cortagen (20 mg Vial) Dosage Protocol
Cortagen (Ala-Glu-Asp-Pro) is a synthetic tetrapeptide bioregulator targeting the cerebral cortex, studied in Russian protocols for cognitive support, memory consolidation, and neural repair after ischemic events.
⚡ Quickstart Highlights
Dosing & Reconstitution Guide
Route: Subcutaneous | Frequency: Once daily during cycle (20 days on / 4–6 months off) | Half-life: Short (minutes); cumulative effect
Standard Approach (3 mL = 6.67 mg/mL)
Reconstituting with 3 mL bacteriostatic water produces a concentration of 6.67 mg/mL. Volume per dose changes with concentration; mg dose itself does not change between vial sizes.
| Phase / Protocol | Dose | U-100 Units | Volume | Doses per vial |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Days 1–20 (cycle on) | 500 mcg | 7.5 units | 0.075 mL | 40 doses |
| Months 1–6 (cycle off) | 0 mcg | 0 units | 0.000 mL | 0 doses |
Reconstitution Steps
- Wipe the vial stopper and BAC water vial with alcohol; let dry.
- Draw 3 mL of bacteriostatic water into a sterile syringe.
- Inject slowly down the inside glass wall of the peptide vial. Do not aim at the powder.
- Gently swirl until fully dissolved. Do not shake.
- Label with reconstitution date. Refrigerate at 2–8°C; use within 30 days.
Supplies Needed
Estimates for an 8-week and 12-week cycle at 0 mcg per dose, once daily during cycle (20 days on / 4–6 months off) (7 doses/week).
| Item | 8-Week Cycle | 12-Week Cycle |
|---|---|---|
| Cortagen (20 mg) vials | 56 vials | 84 vials |
| Insulin syringes (U-100) | 56 | 84 |
| Bacteriostatic water (10 mL) | 17 × 10 mL | 26 × 10 mL |
| Alcohol swabs | 1 × 100-pack | 2 × 100-pack |
Protocol Overview
This peptide bioregulator follows the standard Khavinson-class cycle protocol — 20-day intensive cycles, typically 1–2 times per year. The hypothesized gene-expression mechanism produces effects that persist months after the cycle ends, supporting the cycled rather than continuous approach.
Evidence base is primarily Russian gerontology and clinical research; peer-reviewed Western data is limited.
Dosing Protocol
Cycle dosing (subcutaneous, once daily):
- Days 1–20 (cycle on): 500 mcg/day. Once daily during the 20-day active phase.
- Months 1–6 (cycle off): 4–6 month break before re-cycling. Typically 1–2 cycles per year.
Cycle structure: 20-day active phase, 4–6 month rest. 1–2 cycles per year is standard.
Timing: Once daily during active phase; time of day flexible. Rotate injection sites.
Storage Instructions
| State | Temperature | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Lyophilized | −20°C (−4°F) | Up to 24 months, dry & dark |
| Reconstituted | 2–8°C (35–46°F) | Up to 30 days, protect from light |
Important Notes
How This Works
Cortagen is a Khavinson-class peptide bioregulator hypothesized to modulate gene expression in cortical neurons, supporting neurotrophic factor production and synaptic plasticity.
Potential Benefits & Side Effects
Potential Benefits
- Cognitive support and memory consolidation in Russian clinical protocols.
- Studied for post-stroke neural recovery.
- Pairs with other nootropic peptides in stacked protocols.
Side Effect Profile
- Generally well-tolerated in Russian clinical literature.
- Mild injection-site reactions.
- Limited peer-reviewed Western data.
Lifestyle Factors
- Adequate sleep and rest during cycles.
- Balanced nutrition supports cellular repair.
Injection Technique
- Subcutaneous, rotate sites daily during 20-day cycle.