Cortagen Dosage Guide
Evidence-based protocols for the cerebral cortex bioregulator peptide — Khavinson bioregulator paradigm, neuroprotection, cognitive enhancement, cycling, stacking, and safety.
In This Guide
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Cortagen
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What Is Cortagen?
Cortagen (Ala-Glu-Asp-Pro) is a synthetic tetrapeptide bioregulator developed by Professor Vladimir Khavinson and colleagues at the St. Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology in Russia. It belongs to the Khavinson bioregulator peptide family — a class of short synthetic peptides (2–4 amino acids) theorized to regulate gene expression in specific tissue types. Other members of this family include Epitalon (pineal gland), Pinealon (brain), Vilon (immune system), and Thymalin (thymus).
Cortagen is specific to cerebral cortex tissue. According to Khavinson's research, it interacts with DNA in cortical neurons to modulate protein synthesis and normalize cellular function at the gene expression level. The proposed mechanisms include regulation of cortical neuron gene expression, neuroprotective effects against oxidative stress, enhancement of cognitive function through cortical optimization, and normalization of cortical bioelectrical activity (EEG patterns).
This is a fundamentally different paradigm from most Western peptide therapeutics. While peptides like Semax work through acute receptor-mediated signaling (melanocortin receptors, BDNF upregulation), Cortagen is theorized to work by directly influencing gene expression in target tissue — producing effects that develop over the course of a 10–20 day cycle and persist for months afterward. This bioregulator paradigm is the foundation of Khavinson's broader anti-aging research program.
Use our Peptide Dosage to calculate your exact dose based on vial size and concentration.
Key Characteristics:
- Cerebral cortex bioregulator — a short tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Pro) specific to cortical neurons, theorized to modulate gene expression in cerebral cortex tissue
- Khavinson bioregulator family — part of the same peptide paradigm as Epitalon, Pinealon, and Vilon — short peptides targeting tissue-specific gene expression
- Short-cycle protocol — administered for 10–20 consecutive days, repeated every 3–6 months — identical to the Epitalon paradigm
- Neuroprotective mechanisms — proposed to protect cortical neurons against oxidative stress, normalize bioelectrical activity, and support cognitive function
- Short plasma half-life — cleared from plasma within minutes, but bioregulatory effects on gene expression are theorized to persist for months
- Multiple administration routes — subcutaneous injection (primary), intranasal (some protocols), oral capsules (available in Russia)
For related bioregulator peptides, see our Epitalon profile. New to peptides? Start with the Beginner's Guide to Peptides.
How Cortagen Dosage Is Determined
Cortagen dosing is based on research published by Khavinson's group and clinical protocols used within the Russian healthcare system. Unlike many Western peptide therapeutics that have extensive dose-response studies in diverse populations, Cortagen dosing derives primarily from a smaller body of Russian/CIS research. It is important to be transparent about this evidence base when evaluating protocols.
The Bioregulator Dosing Paradigm
Khavinson's bioregulator peptides follow a distinct dosing philosophy that differs from conventional pharmacology. Rather than titrating to a steady-state plasma concentration, the protocol uses short intensive courses (10–20 days) designed to trigger lasting changes in gene expression. The hypothesis is that these short peptides enter cells, interact with specific DNA sequences, and modulate protein synthesis in their target tissue — effects that persist long after the peptide itself has been cleared from the body.
Published Dosage Parameters
Khavinson and colleagues have published Cortagen protocols using 1–10 mg administered subcutaneously once daily for courses of 10–20 days. The research literature reports doses stratified by intended application: lower doses (1–3 mg) for general nootropic and cognitive maintenance purposes, and higher doses (5–10 mg) for neurological support in contexts such as age-related cognitive decline, cerebrovascular recovery, and post-traumatic brain injury rehabilitation.
Oral Bioavailability Research
Khavinson's group has published research suggesting that bioregulator tetrapeptides retain biological activity when administered orally. The hypothesis is that peptides of 2–4 amino acids are small enough to resist complete enzymatic degradation in the GI tract and maintain sufficient bioavailability for gene-regulatory effects. Oral Cortagen capsules (10 mg) are available in Russia and are taken 1–2 times daily for 10–30 days. However, subcutaneous injection remains the preferred route in research settings due to more predictable bioavailability.
EEG and Cognitive Studies
Research by Khavinson and colleagues has examined Cortagen's effects on cortical bioelectrical activity using electroencephalography (EEG). Published studies report normalization of EEG patterns in elderly subjects and individuals with cerebrovascular disorders following 10–20 day Cortagen courses at standard doses. Cognitive assessments in these studies reported improvements in memory, attention, and mental performance scores.
Standard Cortagen Dosage Ranges
Cortagen is administered by subcutaneous injection (primary route), with intranasal and oral capsule alternatives available. All protocols follow the intensive short-cycle model: daily administration for 10–20 days, followed by a 3–6 month break before repeating.
Subcutaneous Injection Protocols
| Protocol | Daily Dose | Cycle Duration | Repeat Interval | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nootropic / Maintenance | 1–3 mg SubQ | 10–20 days | Every 3–6 months | Standard cognitive support; most common starting protocol |
| Neurological Support | 5–10 mg SubQ | 10–20 days | Every 3–6 months | Higher dose for age-related decline, cerebrovascular, or TBI recovery |
| Conservative Start | 1 mg SubQ | 10 days | Every 4–6 months | Recommended for first-time users to assess tolerance |
Alternative Administration Routes
| Route | Dose | Frequency | Cycle | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oral (capsules) | 10 mg | 1–2x daily | 10–30 days | Available in Russia; longer cycles compensate for lower oral bioavailability |
| Intranasal | 1–3 mg | 1x daily | 10–20 days | Some protocols use intranasal for direct CNS access; less data available |
Administration Timing
- Morning administration preferred: Cortagen targets cortical function and cognitive performance; morning dosing aligns with the active waking period
- Fasting not strictly required: Unlike GHRPs, Cortagen's bioregulatory mechanism does not depend on GH release or blood glucose levels. However, some practitioners recommend fasted administration for consistency
- Consistent daily timing: Administer at the same time each day throughout the 10–20 day cycle for consistent tissue exposure
- Single daily injection: Most protocols use one injection per day. Some higher-dose protocols split the daily dose into two administrations (morning and early afternoon)
Khavinson Bioregulator Peptide Comparison
Cortagen is one member of a larger family of Khavinson bioregulator peptides, each targeting specific tissue types. Understanding where Cortagen fits within this family helps inform protocol design, especially for users interested in multi-tissue longevity stacks.
| Peptide | Sequence | Target Tissue | Primary Effect | Cycle Protocol |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cortagen | Ala-Glu-Asp-Pro | Cerebral cortex | Cortical neuroprotection, cognitive enhancement | 1–10 mg/day, 10–20 days |
| Epitalon | Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly | Pineal gland | Telomerase activation, melatonin restoration | 5–10 mg/day, 10–20 days |
| Pinealon | Glu-Asp-Arg | Brain (general) | Central nervous system regulation, neuroprotection | 10–20 mg/day, 10–20 days |
| Vilon | Lys-Glu | Immune system | Immune modulation, thymic function | 1–5 mg/day, 10–20 days |
| Thymalin | Polypeptide extract | Thymus | Immune reconstitution, thymic regeneration | 5–10 mg/day, 10–14 days |
| Cardiogen | Ala-Glu-Asp-Arg | Heart | Cardiac tissue regeneration, cardioprotection | 1–10 mg/day, 10–20 days |
Calculate Your Cortagen Dose
Cortagen is supplied as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder, typically in 5 mg or 10 mg vials. You reconstitute it with bacteriostatic water, then draw your dose using an insulin syringe. The concentration depends on how much water you add to the vial.
Worked Example:
- Vial size: 10 mg (10,000 mcg) of Cortagen
- Bacteriostatic water added: 2 mL
- Concentration: 10,000 mcg ÷ 2 mL = 5,000 mcg per mL (5 mg/mL)
- Target dose: 3 mg (3,000 mcg)
- Volume to draw: 3,000 ÷ 5,000 = 0.6 mL = 60 units on an insulin syringe
Quick Reference — 10 mg Vial
| Bac Water Added | Concentration | 1 mg Dose | 3 mg Dose | 5 mg Dose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 mL | 10 mg/mL | 10 units (0.1 mL) | 30 units (0.3 mL) | 50 units (0.5 mL) |
| 2 mL | 5 mg/mL | 20 units (0.2 mL) | 60 units (0.6 mL) | 100 units (1.0 mL) |
| 2.5 mL | 4 mg/mL | 25 units (0.25 mL) | 75 units (0.75 mL) | 125 units (1.25 mL) |
Quick Reference — 5 mg Vial
| Bac Water Added | Concentration | 1 mg Dose | 3 mg Dose | 5 mg Dose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 mL | 5 mg/mL | 20 units (0.2 mL) | 60 units (0.6 mL) | 100 units (1.0 mL) |
| 2 mL | 2.5 mg/mL | 40 units (0.4 mL) | 120 units (1.2 mL) | Full vial |
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Cortagen Dosage by Goal
Cortagen protocols vary depending on the primary objective. The bioregulator paradigm means that all protocols follow the same basic structure (intensive daily dosing for 10–20 days, repeated every 3–6 months), but the dose and supporting compounds differ by goal.
General Cognitive Enhancement & Nootropic Support
For users seeking improved mental clarity, focus, and cognitive endurance. This is the most common Cortagen protocol and the recommended starting point for new users. Effects are typically subtle and cumulative rather than acute — expect gradual improvements in cognitive performance over the course of the cycle, with benefits persisting for months afterward.
- Dose: 1–3 mg SubQ daily (morning)
- Cycle: 10–20 consecutive days
- Repeat: Every 4–6 months
- Optional stack: + Semax (200–600 mcg intranasal daily) for complementary receptor-mediated nootropic effects
Age-Related Cognitive Decline
For older adults experiencing age-related cognitive changes. This protocol uses higher doses based on Khavinson's research in elderly populations, where Cortagen was studied in the context of age-related cortical function decline. Published studies reported improvements in memory, attention, and mental performance scores following 10–20 day courses.
- Dose: 5–10 mg SubQ daily (morning)
- Cycle: 10–20 consecutive days
- Repeat: Every 3–6 months
- Common stack: + Epitalon (5–10 mg SubQ daily) for combined cortical neuroprotection and pineal/telomerase benefits
Neurological Recovery (Cerebrovascular & TBI)
For individuals recovering from cerebrovascular events or traumatic brain injury. This represents the most intensive Cortagen protocol and should only be considered under medical supervision. Khavinson's research has examined Cortagen in these contexts within the Russian clinical system.
- Dose: 5–10 mg SubQ daily
- Cycle: 15–20 consecutive days
- Repeat: Every 3–4 months (shorter intervals for active recovery)
- Note: This protocol requires medical supervision. Do not self-administer for serious neurological conditions.
Comprehensive Longevity & Anti-Aging
For users pursuing Khavinson's multi-tissue bioregulator approach to longevity. This protocol combines Cortagen with other bioregulator peptides for systemic anti-aging benefits. The theory is that addressing gene expression in multiple tissue types simultaneously produces synergistic longevity effects.
- Cortagen: 3–5 mg SubQ daily for 10–20 days (cerebral cortex)
- Epitalon: 5–10 mg SubQ daily for 10–20 days (pineal gland / telomerase)
- Pinealon: 10–20 mg daily for 10–20 days (brain / CNS)
- Repeat: Every 4–6 months as a coordinated cycle
Cycling Protocols
Cycling is fundamental to the Khavinson bioregulator paradigm. Unlike GHRPs where cycling prevents receptor desensitization, bioregulator cycling reflects the theory that short intensive courses trigger gene expression changes that persist for months. The off-period is not “recovery” — it is the period during which the bioregulatory effects are theorized to be actively working at the cellular level.
| Protocol | On-Cycle | Off-Cycle | Cycles per Year | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 10 days | 5–6 months off | 2 | General cognitive maintenance; most common protocol |
| Extended | 20 days | 4–6 months off | 2–3 | Neurological support; age-related decline; more intensive effect |
| Intensive | 20 days | 3–4 months off | 3–4 | Active neurological recovery (medical supervision recommended) |
| Longevity Stack | 10–20 days (with other bioregulators) | 4–6 months off | 2–3 | Multi-tissue anti-aging with Epitalon, Pinealon, etc. |
Why Bioregulator Cycling Differs from GHRP Cycling
GHRPs like Hexarelin require cycling because continuous receptor stimulation causes desensitization — the pituitary becomes less responsive. Bioregulator peptides like Cortagen follow a different logic entirely: the short intensive course is designed to “reprogram” gene expression in the target tissue, and the months-long off-period is when these changes are theorized to be expressed and maintained. Running another course too soon is considered unnecessary, not harmful.
Cortagen Stacking Protocols
Cortagen stacking leverages two approaches: combining with other Khavinson bioregulators for multi-tissue support (the paradigm's intended design), or combining with conventional nootropic peptides that work through complementary receptor-mediated mechanisms.
Cortagen + Epitalon — Cortex + Pineal Bioregulator Stack
The most popular Cortagen stack within the bioregulator community. Combines Cortagen's cortical neuroprotection with Epitalon's telomerase activation and melatonin restoration. Both peptides follow the same cycling paradigm and can be administered concurrently during the same 10–20 day course.
| Compound | Dose | Frequency | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cortagen | 3–5 mg SubQ | 1x daily (morning) | Cerebral cortex bioregulation, neuroprotection |
| Epitalon | 5–10 mg SubQ | 1x daily (morning or evening) | Pineal bioregulation, telomerase activation, melatonin |
Cortagen + Pinealon — Dual Brain Bioregulator Stack
Combines two brain-targeted bioregulators: Cortagen (specific to cerebral cortex) and Pinealon (broader CNS regulation). Khavinson's research suggests these target overlapping but distinct neural systems, potentially producing synergistic neuroprotective effects.
| Compound | Dose | Frequency | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cortagen | 3–5 mg SubQ | 1x daily (morning) | Cerebral cortex gene expression, cognitive enhancement |
| Pinealon | 10–20 mg oral or SubQ | 1x daily | Broader CNS regulation, neuronal protection |
Cortagen + Semax — Bioregulator + Conventional Nootropic
Combines two fundamentally different nootropic paradigms: Cortagen's bioregulatory gene expression modulation with Semax's acute receptor-mediated nootropic effects (BDNF upregulation, melanocortin receptor activation). This stack addresses both long-term cortical optimization and acute cognitive performance.
| Compound | Dose | Frequency | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cortagen | 1–5 mg SubQ | 1x daily (morning), 10–20 day cycle | Long-term cortical bioregulation, gene expression modulation |
| Semax | 200–600 mcg intranasal | 1–3x daily (can extend beyond Cortagen cycle) | Acute BDNF upregulation, focus, cognitive performance |
Cortagen + Cerebrolysin — Bioregulator + Neurotrophic
Combines Cortagen's gene expression modulation with Cerebrolysin's neurotrophic factor delivery. Cerebrolysin is a porcine brain-derived peptide preparation containing multiple neurotrophic factors. This is the most intensive neuroprotective stack and is typically used in neurological recovery contexts under medical supervision.
| Compound | Dose | Frequency | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cortagen | 5–10 mg SubQ | 1x daily, 10–20 day cycle | Cortical gene expression modulation, neuroprotection |
| Cerebrolysin | 5–30 mL IV/IM | Daily or 5x/week, 10–20 day course | Neurotrophic factor delivery, neuronal repair |
Explore more combinations with our Peptide Stack Builder or browse the Top 10 Peptide Stacks guide.
Safety, Side Effects & Contraindications
Reported Side Effects
Rare and generally mild:
- Injection site reactions — mild redness, slight soreness, or minor swelling at the injection site; resolves quickly
- Mild headache — occasionally reported in the first few days of a cycle; typically resolves spontaneously
- Mild fatigue or drowsiness — infrequently reported; usually transient during the first 2–3 days
Notably absent compared to many peptides:
- No hormonal disruption (no cortisol, prolactin, or GH axis effects)
- No appetite changes
- No water retention or bloating
- No known desensitization or tolerance development
- No reported cardiovascular effects
Contraindications
- Known allergy to component amino acids — Cortagen consists of Ala-Glu-Asp-Pro. Hypersensitivity to any component is a contraindication, though allergic reactions to such short peptides are extremely rare.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding — no safety data exists for Cortagen during pregnancy or nursing. Avoid entirely.
- Active brain tumors or CNS malignancies — Cortagen is theorized to modulate gene expression in cortical neurons. While no evidence suggests tumor-promoting effects, use in the context of active CNS malignancy is contraindicated as a precaution.
- Autoimmune neurological conditions — conditions such as multiple sclerosis or autoimmune encephalitis involve dysregulated immune activity in the CNS. The effects of Cortagen on gene expression in this context are unknown. Use with medical supervision only.
- Children and adolescents — Cortagen has not been studied in pediatric populations. The developing brain has different gene expression requirements. Avoid use in individuals under 18.
When to Stop or Reduce Dose
- Any allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing) — discontinue immediately
- Persistent headaches that do not resolve after 3–4 days of the cycle
- Unusual neurological symptoms (confusion, visual disturbance, persistent dizziness) — discontinue and consult a healthcare provider
- Any symptom that feels concerning or unusual — err on the side of caution
Common Cortagen Dosing Mistakes
Avoid these common errors to get the most out of your Cortagen protocol:
Frequently Asked Questions
Key Takeaways
- Cortagen (Ala-Glu-Asp-Pro) is a cerebral cortex bioregulator — a synthetic tetrapeptide developed by Khavinson, theorized to modulate gene expression specifically in cortical neurons
- Standard dose: 1–10 mg SubQ daily for 10–20 days — 1–3 mg for nootropic support, 5–10 mg for neurological support
- Cycle every 3–6 months: Short intensive courses followed by months-long breaks — the standard Khavinson bioregulator paradigm
- Different paradigm from conventional nootropics: Cortagen targets gene expression, not acute receptor signaling. Effects develop over the 10–20 day cycle and are theorized to persist for months
- Best stacked with: Epitalon (longevity), Pinealon (broader CNS), Semax (acute nootropic), or Cerebrolysin (neurotrophic — medical supervision required)
- Extremely mild side effect profile — rare injection site reactions and occasional mild headache. No hormonal disruption, no appetite changes, no water retention
- Evidence base is moderate-to-limited: Primarily Russian/CIS publications from Khavinson's group. Some international peer-reviewed publications but limited independent Western replication
- Not FDA-approved — classified as a research peptide in most Western countries. Available as a dietary supplement in Russia. Check local regulations.
- Morning administration preferred — aligns with cortical activity during the waking period. Fasting not strictly required but some practitioners prefer it.
- Complete the full cycle: Do not skip days during the 10–20 day course. The bioregulatory theory depends on sustained daily exposure to trigger the gene expression cascade.
This article is for educational and informational purposes only. See our Disclaimer.
References
- Khavinson VK. “Peptides and Ageing.” Neuroendocrinology Letters. 2002;23(Suppl 3):11-144. PubMed
- Khavinson VK, Malinin VV. “Gerontological aspects of genome peptide regulation.” Karger, Basel. 2005.
- Khavinson VK, et al. “Tetrapeptide Ala-Glu-Asp-Pro as a neuroprotective agent.” Bull Exp Biol Med. 2006;141(4):430-432.
- Khavinson VK, et al. “Peptide bioregulators: A new class of geroprotectors. Message 1: Results of experimental studies.” Adv Gerontol. 2012;2(3):177-186. PubMed
- Khavinson VK, et al. “Short peptides modulate the effect of endonucleases of wheat germ.” Bull Exp Biol Med. 2010;150(1):67-69.
- Anisimov VN, Khavinson VK. “Peptide bioregulation of aging: results and prospects.” Biogerontology. 2010;11(2):139-149. PubMed
- Khavinson VK, et al. “Mechanism of biological activity of short peptides: Cell penetration and epigenetic regulation of gene expression.” Biology Bulletin Reviews. 2013;3(6):451-455.
- Chalisova NI, et al. “Short peptides stimulate cell regeneration in cerebral cortex tissue culture.” Bull Exp Biol Med. 2014;158(1):126-128.
- Khavinson VK, et al. “AEDG peptide (epitalon) stimulates gene expression and protein synthesis during neurogenesis: possible epigenetic mechanism.” Molecules. 2020;25(3):609. PubMed
- Fedoreyeva LI, et al. “Penetration of short fluorescence-labeled peptides into the nucleus in HeLa cells and in vitro specific interaction of the peptides with deoxyribooligonucleotides and DNA.” Biochemistry (Moscow). 2011;76(11):1210-1219. PubMed
Next Steps
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