From the Guidelines
Cerebrolysin may be considered for patients with acute ischemic stroke due to its potential neurotrophic and neuroprotective actions, as suggested by a small study that found it to be safe and possibly improve outcomes. The use of Cerebrolysin is based on its proposed mechanism of action, which involves neuroprotective effects, stimulation of neuronal growth, and enhancement of neuroplasticity 1. Some key points to consider about Cerebrolysin include:
- It is a neuropeptide preparation derived from pig brain tissue
- It contains a mixture of low molecular weight peptides and amino acids that mimic the action of neurotrophic factors
- The typical dosage ranges from 5-30 ml administered via intramuscular or intravenous injection
- Treatment courses often last 10-20 days
- It has been studied for conditions including stroke recovery, dementia, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative disorders
- Side effects are generally mild and may include dizziness, headache, agitation, or injection site reactions
- While some clinical studies suggest benefits for cognitive function and neurological recovery, the evidence quality varies, and patients should be aware that it remains experimental in many contexts
- Anyone considering Cerebrolysin should consult with a healthcare provider, as it requires professional administration and monitoring. In the context of acute ischemic stroke, the potential benefits of Cerebrolysin should be weighed against the limited evidence and the availability of other treatment options, and patients should be closely monitored for any adverse effects 1.
From the Research
Overview of Cerebrolysin
- Cerebrolysin is a neuropeptide preparation with neurotrophic effects, used for the treatment of cerebral ischemia and neurodegeneration 2, 3.
- It has been used clinically in over 50 countries worldwide, although it is not approved for use in the USA 2.
- Cerebrolysin has the potential to intervene in a diverse array of pathophysiological causes of neurological diseases, including ischemic strokes, neurodegenerative disorders, and traumatic brain injuries 2.
Efficacy of Cerebrolysin
- Studies have shown that Cerebrolysin can provide functional improvement when used as an adjunct treatment for neurological diseases, including stroke and vascular dementia 2, 3, 4.
- A meta-analysis of nine randomized clinical trials found that Cerebrolysin had a beneficial effect on early global neurological deficits in patients with acute ischemic stroke 5.
- However, the evidence is not definitive, and some studies have reported inconsistent results, with minor clinical relevance and no significant advantages over a placebo 2, 6.
Safety of Cerebrolysin
- Cerebrolysin is generally safe for human use, with comparable safety aspects to placebo 3, 5.
- Adverse events have been reported, but the data are limited, and there is no suggestion of adverse effects 4.
Clinical Applications of Cerebrolysin
- Cerebrolysin has been used for the treatment of stroke, neurodegeneration, and traumatic brain injury 2, 3.
- It has also been tested for its efficacy in patients with vascular dementia, with some studies showing a beneficial effect on cognitive function and global function 4.
- However, more robust clinical data are needed to reach a consensus and properly define the therapeutic role of Cerebrolysin 2, 3.