Cortexin dosage and reconstitution
A Russian brain-extract powder run in 10-day courses after a stroke, concussion or burnout. Long clinical history, little Western proof.
Staying safe
Things people sometimes notice
- Soreness at the injection site; the clinical 10 mg dose is a full 1 mL
- A headache or restlessness in the first few days for some people
- Vivid dreams or lighter sleep early in the course, which usually settles
Stop and get help if (trouble breathing or swelling: call 911)
- Rash, hives, swelling or trouble breathing, because it is an animal protein extract
- New or worsening neurological symptoms, which need a doctor, not another dose
- Agitation or insomnia that gets worse each day rather than settling
Talk to your doctor first, especially if
- You are using it for a diagnosed stroke, head injury, epilepsy or dementia, where the course should be part of the specialist's plan and they should know
- You have a history of allergy to animal proteins or to other bovine or porcine products
- You take other neuro-active medicines, such as antidepressants, antiepileptics or stimulants, because interaction data does not exist
- You are treating a child; it is used in pediatric neurology in Russia, but only under a prescriber
Mixing it
Cortexin is a powder you mix before each course. Here is the math for a 20 mg vial mixed with 2 ml of bacteriostatic water: 10 mg/ml, so the clinical 10 mg dose is a full 1 ml (100 units) and 5 mg is 50 units. The clinic mixes each 10 mg ampoule in 1 to 2 ml of saline for intramuscular use.
Let the vial reach room temperature and wipe the top with an alcohol swab.
Add 2 ml of bacteriostatic water slowly against the glass; swirl, do not shake.
Draw 1 ml (100 units) for a 10 mg dose; this is a large draw, so a 1 ml syringe is the right tool.
Clinic practice is intramuscular; the community often uses subQ. Rotate sites.
A 20 mg vial is two clinical doses. Keep it in the fridge and use it within a few days once mixed.