What is Cerebrolysin?
Cerebrolysin is a mixture of small peptides and amino acids obtained by enzymatic breakdown of pig-brain protein. It is thought to act similarly to the body's own nerve growth factors and to protect nerve cells.
How well studied is Cerebrolysin?
There are many randomised trials, mainly in stroke and dementia. A Cochrane review (2023, 7 trials, about 1,800 patients) found probably no effect on mortality in acute ischaemic stroke; data on disability were missing. There is no evidence of cognitive enhancement in healthy people.
What side effects and risks does Cerebrolysin have?
In the Cochrane review, non-fatal serious adverse events were more frequent with Cerebrolysin than with control. As an animal-protein product it can trigger allergic reactions. Injection/infusion without medical supervision carries additional infection and circulatory risks.
Is Cerebrolysin approved in Germany?
In short: yes. Approved as a prescription medicine in Austria and several other (mainly Central and Eastern European) countries, e.g. for the after-effects of stroke, head injury and dementia; not marketed in Germany. No central EU approval. Products offered online may be counterfeit or improperly stored.
Sources
- Cochrane 2023: Cerebrolysin for acute ischaemic stroke
- EVER Pharma Austria: Cerebrolysin – Produktinformation
- Drugs.com International: Cerebrolysin
Note: We deliberately do not list any doses here. For approved medicines, your doctor sets the dose; for unapproved substances there is no reliable information.