Khavinson Bioregulators / Subcutaneous
Cortagen
Brain cortex bioregulator peptide from the Khavinson series. Short peptide (2-4 amino acids) that targets specific tissue for gene expression regulation and organ health optimization.
What is Cortagen used for? Research has focused on supports cognitive function and mental clarity; promotes brain tissue repair and neuroprotection; enhances cerebral blood flow and oxygenation.
Compare with other peptides studied forcognitive performance,recovery and healing,anxiety and mood
Cortagen injection at a glance
Figures from the published research literature. Research use only.
- Dose range
- 10-20 mcg
- Route
- Subcutaneous
How often, when, and the dosing notes are in the dosing reference further down.
Work out your units in the free calculatorBeginner basics
Plain-English guide to Cortagen
- What it does
- This is a short chain of amino acids that researchers believe helps support brain health, mental sharpness, and blood flow to the brain. It's studied for potentially helping with memory and protecting brain tissue.
- Typical dose
- Researchers typically use 10-20 micrograms once or twice daily, usually given as an injection under the skin or dissolved under the tongue.
- When to inject
- Most commonly used in the morning; if taking twice daily, the second dose is typically in the afternoon. Taking it on an empty stomach may work best.
- Storage
- Keep the dry powder frozen at -20°C (a regular freezer works). Once you mix it with liquid, store it in a regular refrigerator at 2-8°C and keep it away from direct light.
- Beginner tip
- Start with the lowest dose (10 mcg once daily) for the first week to see how your body responds before moving to higher amounts or twice-daily dosing.
Research status
- Evidence grade C
- Mostly animal or in-vitro studies, with limited human data.
- Research only
- No regulatory approval in any major jurisdiction. Research use only.
Limited Clinical Data
For research purposes only. Not approved for human use. Not medical advice.
Research areas
- Supports cognitive function and mental clarity
- Promotes brain tissue repair and neuroprotection
- Enhances cerebral blood flow and oxygenation
- Supports memory consolidation and learning
- May improve mood and emotional regulation
- Supports age-related cognitive decline management
Side effects
| Effect | How often | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Local injection site reactionsMild redness, swelling, or itching at the injection site may occur. Usually resolves within 1-2 hours. Rotate injection sites to minimize risk. Apply ice if needed. | Uncommon | Mild |
| HeadacheMild headache has been reported in some users, particularly when starting. Usually transient and resolves within 24-48 hours. Ensure adequate hydration. | Uncommon | Mild |
| Dizziness or lightheadednessRare reports of mild dizziness, particularly with sublingual administration. Sit or lie down if this occurs. Resolve typically within minutes. | Rare | Mild |
| NauseaRare reports of mild nausea, especially with sublingual dosing. Usually resolves quickly. Take with food if using sublingual route. | Rare | Mild |
| Allergic reactionAlthough rare, allergic reactions to peptide bioregulators are possible, particularly in individuals with sensitivity to bovine-derived products. Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if allergic symptoms develop. Discontinue use. | Rare | Serious |
| Insomnia or sleep disturbanceSome users report mild sleep disruption, particularly if dosed in the evening. Administer in the morning to minimize this risk. | Uncommon | Mild |
Dosing reference
Dose scale from the research
- Starting
- 10 mcg
- Typical
- 15 mcg
- Upper end
- 20 mcg
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose range | 10-20 mcg |
Frequency, timing and route are for members | |
Checked October 2026
Research disclaimer. Figures are drawn from published research literature and community logs. They are not clinical recommendations. Consult a qualified professional. Research use only.
Reconstitution guide
- Do not use saline or bacteriostatic saline, use only bacteriostatic water for reconstitution
- Do not shake the vial vigorously; gentle swirling prevents peptide degradation
- Discard immediately if the solution appears cloudy, discolored, or contains visible particles
- Use within 30 days of reconstitution when stored at 2-8°C
- Do not freeze the reconstituted solution; freezing may denature the peptide
- Use the PeptideVolt reconstitution calculator for your exact concentration
Worked example
With 5 mg in the vial, the water you add changes the draw. Mixed with 1 mL that is 5,000 mcg per mL, so on a U-100 syringe 10 mcg is 0.2 units and 20 mcg is 0.4 units. Mixed with 2 mL it is 2,500 mcg per mL, so 10 mcg is 0.4 units and 20 mcg is 0.8 units.
Storage and stability
Store lyophilized peptide at -20°C. Refrigerate after reconstitution (2-8°C). Protect from light.
Molecular and pharmacological data
Cortagen is a short peptide bioregulator (2-4 amino acids) derived from bovine brain cortex tissue that is believed to act as a tissue-specific signaling molecule. It is thought to cross the blood-brain barrier and modulate gene expression in cortical neurons, promoting neuroprotection, enhancing cerebral blood flow, and supporting cognitive function through epigenetic and receptor-mediated pathways. The peptide may also stimulate endogenous production of neuroprotective factors and support neuroplasticity.
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Recent research
All results on PubMedEPIGENETIC MODIFICATION UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF PEPTIDE BIOREGULATORS ON THE "OLD" CHROMATIN.
Lezhava T, et al. / Georgian medical news / 2023
[Cortexin and cortagen as correcting agents in functional and metabolic disorders in the brain in chronic ischemia].
Zarubina IV, Shabanov PD / Eksperimental'naia i klinicheskaia farmakologiia / 2011
Effects of bioactive tetrapeptides on free-radical processes.
Kozina LS / Bulletin of experimental biology and medicine / 2007
Source: PubMed / NCBI. Updated daily. Articles are listed for research reference only.
Research citations
4 sources
Khavinson VKh, Linkova NS, Dyatlova AB. (2016). Peptide bioregulators: A new class of drugs for human health. Biochemistry (Moscow). PMID: 27748757. Review of Khavinson peptide series mechanisms and clinical applications in tissue-specific regulation.
Linkova NS, Khavinson VKh. (2015). Peptide bioregulators: Mechanism of action and results of clinical application. Advances in Gerontology.: Describes how short peptides target specific tissues and modulate gene expression for organ health.
Khavinson VKh, Trofimova SV, Reiter RJ. (2017). Pineal peptide: A novel endogenous regulator of melatonin synthesis and secretion. Neuroendocrinology Letters. PMID: 28627903. Demonstrates peptide bioregulator effects on neuroendocrine function and tissue-specific targeting.
Anisimov VN, Khavinson VKh. (2010). Peptide bioregulation of aging: Mechanisms and applications. Biogerontology. PMID: 20640516. Evidence for peptide bioregulators in age-related cognitive and neurological support.
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Research use only. All content on this page is provided for informational and educational purposes related to scientific research. Cortagen is not approved for human use by the FDA or any equivalent regulatory body. This is not medical advice. Do not use any substance discussed here for therapeutic, diagnostic, or preventative purposes. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. The Peptide Volt does not endorse the use of any research chemicals. 18+ only.