Cortagen Protocol Guide
Cortagen is a synthetic tetrapeptide bioregulator studied for its effects on cerebral cortex function and neuroprotection. Research suggests it may normalize cortical gene expression, support neuronal recovery, and exhibit geroprotective properties. Typically administered in 10-day cycles.
Protocol Overview
- Compound
- Cortagen (Tetrapeptide Bioregulator (Ala-Glu-Asp-Pro))
- Category
- Cortex Bioregulator Peptide
- Vial Size
- 10mg (10,000mcg)
- Reconstitution
- 2mL bacteriostatic water (5mg/mL)
- Route
- Subcutaneous injection
- Frequency
- 7 days/week
Reconstitution Instructions
Using 2mL of bacteriostatic water results in a concentration of 5mg/mL (5000mcg/mL). Administer in 10-day cycles. Always use sterile techniques.
Materials Needed
- 10mg Cortagen 10mg vial (lyophilized powder)
- 2mL bacteriostatic water (sterile, preserved with 0.9% benzyl alcohol)
- Sterile syringe and needle (18-22 gauge for drawing)
- Alcohol swabs
- Clean workspace
Step-by-Step Process
- Preparation: Allow the Cortagen 10mg vial and bacteriostatic water to reach room temperature. Wipe the rubber stoppers of both vials with an alcohol swab.
- Draw the Water: Using a sterile syringe, draw up exactly 2mL of bacteriostatic water. Expel any air bubbles.
- Inject into Vial: Insert the needle through the rubber stopper at a slight angle, aiming toward the glass wall. Slowly inject the water down the side of the vial to avoid foaming.
- Mix Gently: Remove the needle. Gently swirl or roll the vial between your hands. Do not shake vigorously.
- Check for Clarity: The solution should be clear once fully reconstituted. Do not use if cloudy.
Weekly Dosing Reference · research convention, not a validated dose
| Day | Units | Dose | Timing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | 4 | 200mcg | Morning |
| Tuesday | 4 | 200mcg | Morning |
| Wednesday | 4 | 200mcg | Morning |
| Thursday | 4 | 200mcg | Morning |
| Friday | 4 | 200mcg | Morning |
| Saturday | 4 | 200mcg | Morning |
| Sunday | 4 | 200mcg | Morning |
Weekly Total: 28 units (1,400mcg) • Vial Duration: ~50 days
Quick Dosing Reference · research convention, not a validated dose
| Units (Ticks) | Dose (mcg) | Dose (mg) |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 100 | 0.1mg |
| 4 | 200 | 0.2mg |
| 6 | 300 | 0.3mg |
| 10 | 500 | 0.5mg |
| 20 | 1000 | 1mg |
Administration Guidelines
- Administer subcutaneously in the morning
- Run 10-day cycles with appropriate rest periods between cycles
- Rotate injection sites between abdomen, thigh, and upper arm
- Store reconstituted peptide refrigerated at 36-46F (2-8C)
- Use reconstituted solution within 30 days
- Never freeze reconstituted peptides
- Document administration times and observations
Storage Requirements
| State | Storage Conditions |
|---|---|
| Lyophilized (powder) | Room temperature or refrigerated, protect from light |
| Reconstituted | Refrigerated 36-46F (2-8C), use within 30 days |
Related Tools & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
There is no validated human dose for this compound; the following is a commonly cited research convention, not a validated protocol. The standard Cortagen research protocol uses 200mcg administered morning on protocol days. Weekly Total: 28 units (1,400mcg) • Vial Duration: ~50 days
Using 2mL of bacteriostatic water results in a concentration of 5mg/mL (5000mcg/mL). Administer in 10-day cycles. Always use sterile techniques.
Lyophilized (powder): Room temperature or refrigerated, protect from light. Reconstituted: Refrigerated 36-46F (2-8C), use within 30 days.