Which is better Actovegin or Cortexin reviews

Cortexin is a nootropic that increases the brain’s resistance to various damage and promotes rapid recovery of nerve tissue. Actovegin is an antihypoxant that improves the metabolism of all tissues and stimulates their regeneration.

These drugs belong to different groups and have different mechanisms of action:

• Cortexin is a neuropeptide derived from the brain of cattle. Once in the human body, the drug penetrates the blood-brain barrier, normalizes the ratio of excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters, reduces the bioelectrical activity of neurons and reduces the formation of free radicals.
• Actovegin improves the oxygen oxidation of glucose, due to which the formation of ATP (energy molecules) increases and energy metabolism is normalized. Fewer free radicals and acids are formed, neurons become more resistant to hypoxia.

pharmachologic effect

Manufacturer: TAKEDA PHARMACEUTICALS, Russia
Release form: tablets, injection solution, ointment, gel

Active ingredient: deproteinized dialysate from the blood of dairy calves

Actovegin has a positive effect on the transport and utilization of glucose and stimulates oxygen consumption. The drug also has an actihypoxic effect on the body, which manifests itself half an hour after taking the drug in tablets. The maximum effect is observed after three hours.

The medication increases the concentrations of ATP, ADP, phosphocreatine, as well as amino acids (glutamate, aspartate) and GABA. In most cases, it is used in the treatment of patients with diabetic polyneuropathy. In this situation, the patient’s general condition and a decrease in the severity of the symptoms of the disease are observed. There is also an improvement in mental well-being.

What are the differences between the drugs “Actovegin” and “Cortexin”?

Cortexin is contraindicated in pregnant and lactating women. Actovegin does not have a negative effect on the fetus or the pregnant woman.

The effect of the drugs also differs: Cortexin normalizes the metabolic processes of brain cells, participates in improving the synthesis of cellular protein, and Actovegin stimulates the activity of enzymes, providing an antihypoxic effect.

The differences also lie in the convenience of the form of release of the drugs. Cortexin is available only in the form of a powder for the preparation of injections for intramuscular administration, while Actovegin also has a release form in the form of tablets, cream, ointment, gel, and solution for intravenous administration.

Cortexin is the only drug that can cure congenital injuries of the central nervous system in newborns, and Actovegin shows good results in the treatment of vegetative-vascular dystonia.

Indications for use of Actovegin

Actovegin tablets are prescribed to patients in the older age group with neurological pathologies. These include:

• metabolic and vascular disorders that are diagnosed in the brain area: dementia, traumatic brain injury, cerebrovascular insufficiency of varying degrees;
• arterial and venous disorders, their consequences;
• diabetic polyneuropathy;
• angiopathy, trophic ulcers.

As a product for external use, Actovegin is recommended for wounds, abrasions, and burns. Before starting a course of treatment, you should first consult with a specialist, since self-therapy can lead to negative and irreversible consequences.

You should also stop taking Activigen if there are contraindications. These include:

• heart failure,
• swelling of the lungs,
• oliguria,
• anuria,
• swelling of tissues,
• allergic reaction to components.

Actovegin can be prescribed during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but only after comparing the risks and benefits, and with extreme caution.

It is recommended to monitor the body's reaction. If side effects occur, you must stop taking the drug and seek qualified help.

Comparison of Cortexin and Actovegin

Similarities

Both products are obtained from natural raw materials. They almost do not provoke side effects; during therapy, an individual negative reaction rarely develops. Available in the form of an injection solution.

What is the difference?

The mechanism of action of the drugs is different: Cortexin affects nerve cells, bioenergetic and metabolic processes, while Actovegin exhibits antihypoxic properties. The results of therapy vary somewhat. This means that drugs can be replaced with each other only in some cases.

The products also have other differences, for example, Actovegin is available not only in the form of a solution, but also in the form of tablets. The solution is recommended to be administered intravenously. Cortexin is used intramuscularly. The therapeutic dose of this medicine is less than in the case of Actovegin. In addition, Cortexin is not used during pregnancy and lactation.

Cortexin is not used during pregnancy and lactation.

Which is cheaper?

Actovegin in the form of a solution can be purchased for 1,520 rubles. (25 ampoules with a dosage of 40 mg). The price of Cortexin is 1300 rubles. (pack containing 10 ampoules with a dosage of 10 mg). Thus, the first of the products is cheaper, considering the amount of the drug contained in the packages.

Actovegin - instructions for use

According to the instructions for use, Actovegin is intended for oral administration, 1-2 tablets no more than three times a day. The medication is taken with a small amount of liquid. The duration of therapy is adjusted by the attending physician and depends on the general condition of the patient and the diagnosis. On average, treatment lasts no more than 1.5 months.

How to take Actovegin: before or after meals

Actovegin is recommended to be taken half an hour before meals. This is necessary so that the drug is better absorbed and begins to act. If it was not possible to take the medicine before meals, then you are allowed to take the tablets after, but at least an hour later.

Analogues of Actovegin

On the shelves of pharmacies there is a wide range of foreign and domestic analogues and substitutes for Actovegin, which differ in composition, indications, release form, course duration, drug interactions, age restrictions and cost.

When choosing an analogue, you should pay attention to the information specified in the instructions. You should not ignore the nuances of use and dosage, as this can lead to negative and irreversible consequences.

Prices for cheap analogues of Actovegin in tablets, injections and ointments (gels).

The cost of the product depends on the packaging, release form, and country of origin. It is always recommended that you consider the admission restrictions before starting the course.

Differences

The main differences between drugs:

• Price. The difference in cost between Cortexin and Actovegin is noticeable. The latter is more affordable; at points of sale it is bought for 600–800 rubles (depending on the pharmacy, the price may be higher or lower). The price of Cortexin varies between 800–1000 rubles.
• Cortexin should not be used by pregnant women or those in the lactation period (breastfeeding). Actovegin is safe for such patients and can be used.
• For the treatment of infants with trauma to the central nervous system (most often babies suffer during childbirth), only Cortexin is an effective drug. It has a positive and long-lasting effect on the central nervous system. In such clinical cases, Actovegin can be called a useless medicine.

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Cortexin is able to combat a large number of disorders and has a pronounced neuroprotective and psychostimulating effect.

Actovegin or Cerebrolysin - which is better for an adult

Manufacturer: EVER NEURO, Austria
Release form: injection solution

Active ingredient: Cerebrolysin concentrate

Cerebrolysin is an analogue of Actovegin in ampoules. The drug is prescribed to patients of different age categories for the following neurological diseases and disorders:

• Alzheimer's disease;
• dementia syndrome;
• cerebrovascular insufficiency in chronic form;
• ischemic stroke;
• damage to the brain and spinal cord as a result of trauma;
• mental retardation in children;
• hyperactivity and attention deficit in children.

Cerebrolysin is also recommended as a complex therapy for endogenous depression resistant to antidepressants. Before starting the course, it is necessary to take into account existing contraindications, as well as precautions. The product can be used during early pregnancy, as well as during breastfeeding. A balance between risk and benefit is required.

Reviews from patients and specialists regarding Actovegin and its analogue Cerebrolysin are in most cases positive. Both of these remedies are equally effective for these pathologies and disorders.

What is the difference

Medicines differ in composition: the active components in them are different. The auxiliary ones also differ. The drugs are sold in different dosage forms:

• Actovegin can be purchased in the form of a gel and ointment for external use, a solution for intramuscular injection, tablets for oral use and a liquid suspension in droppers;
• Cortexin is sold in powder form for the preparation of a solution for injection.

There are also differences in the list of adverse reactions: Actovegin has more of them than its analogue.

Cortexin is more effective in the treatment of dyscirculatory encephalopathy. This drug is also the only one that works well for infants with disorders of the central nervous system. It helps more quickly with a number of pathologies. Contraindications to taking medications vary; Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not be treated with Cortexin. The advantage of Actovegin is its lower cost.

Cortexin is more effective in the treatment of dyscirculatory encephalopathy.

Actovegin or Mexidol - which is better and more effective for blood vessels

Manufacturer: VECTORFARM, Russia
Release form: tablets, injection solution

Active ingredient: ethylmethylhydroxypyridine succinate

Mexidol is an analogue of the drug Actovegin. This drug belongs to antioxidants, inhibitors of free radical processes, and membrane protectors. The drug can increase the body's resistance to negative factors. Quickly absorbed and distributed throughout the body. The Mexidol analogue is excreted along with urine almost unchanged.

It is prescribed to patients of the older age category for such disorders and pathologies as acute circulatory disorders in the brain, mild forms of TBI and its consequences, encephalopathy, VSD, cognitive disorders of the atherosclerotic type, anxiety disorders, asthenic condition. It is also allowed to take the drug under conditions of exposure to stress factors.

For blood vessels it is better to use Mexidol than Actovegin, including for osteochondrosis.

Actovegin or Solcoseryl - which is better for burns and wounds

Manufacturer: MEDA PHARMA, Switzerland
Release form: ointment, gel, dental paste

Active ingredient: deproteinized dialysate from the blood of healthy dairy calves

Solcoseryl is an analogue of Actovegin gel and cream in terms of the active substance. The drug is intended for external use. The product stimulates tissue regeneration and also improves the transport of oxygen and glucose to cells. Also, the analogue Solcoseryl increases the synthesis of intracellular ATP.

The drug is prescribed to patients for such disorders as abrasions, scratches, burns, frostbite, difficult-to-heal wounds, and bedsores. In most cases, it is recommended to use the drug for dry lesions. Therefore, in case of these violations, it is the analogue of Actovegin ointment - Solcoseryl that will be effective.

Actovegin or Cortexin - which is better for adults

Manufacturer: GEROPHARM, Russia
Release form: lyophilisate, lyophilisate powder for children

Active ingredient: polypeptides of the cerebral cortex of cattle

What can replace Actovegin in tablets and injections? Cortexin has nootropic, neuroprotective, antioxidant, tissue-specific properties. The drug can improve the functionality of the brain, the body’s resistance to various stressful situations, protect neurons from damage, increase their survival, and activate the metabolism of the peripheral and central nervous system.

The Cortexin analogue is prescribed to patients of different age groups with the following disorders and pathologies:

1. Poor blood circulation in the brain area.
2. TBI and its consequences.
3. Encephalopathies of various types.
4. Cognitive disorders.
5. Encephalitis and encephalomyelitis of acute and chronic stages.
6. Epilepsy.
7. Asthenic conditions.
8. Suprasegmental autonomic disorders.
9. Reduced learning ability.
10. Delayed psychomotor and speech development in children.
11. Various forms of cerebral palsy.

Before starting the course, it is recommended to consult with a specialist and not engage in independent diagnosis and therapy. For adults, you can use both Actovegin and its analog Cortexin, but the diagnosis should be taken into account.

"Cortexin": description, method of use and contraindications

Cortexin is a polypeptide drug consisting of the subcortical layer of the cattle brain. Peptide group drugs are highly effective on the body and have virtually no side effects.

Cortexin also contains nicotinic, glutamic acid, glycine, riboflavin, thiamine, retinol and other minerals.

Cortexin first launched production in 1999. This drug was prescribed to people who suffered a cerebral concussion during hostilities.

Cortexin restores the metabolic processes of brain cells, and also participates in improving the synthesis of cellular protein, eliminates the unequal actions of excitatory and inhibitory amino acids, and regulates the processes of lipid oxidation in brain cells.

This drug improves memory, concentrates attention, allows the brain to cope with stressful situations, and normalizes dopamine and serotonin levels.

It has an anticonvulsant effect, has an immunomodulatory effect, and is an antioxidant. It also restores brain activity.

There are a number of indications for the use of Cortexin:

1. Epilepsy.
2. Developmental delay in children.
3. Cerebral circulatory disorders.
4. Vegetative-vascular dystonia of mixed and hypotonic type.
5. Encephalopathy and hydrocephalus.
6. Cerebral palsy - cerebral palsy.
7. Chronic encephalitis and meningitis.
8. Poor concentration, memory impairment.
9. Traumatic brain injury.
10. Asthenia.

As for contraindications, there are only two of them: individual intolerance to the drug and pregnancy . No side effects were identified during the entire period of use of the drug.

The method of administration and dose is calculated by the doctor individually. In case there is no prescription, the drug is used by adults 10 mg for 5-10 days, children 0.5 mg up to 20 kg of weight, 10 mg of more than 20 kg of weight for 5-10 days, after dissolving 2 ml of novocaine.

Cortexin must be stored in a dry and dark place , at a temperature not exceeding 20 degrees, shelf life is 2 years . Available only in powder form for the preparation of injections for intramuscular administration.

Actovegin or Cavinton – which is better and more effective?

Manufacturer: GEDEON RICHTER, Russia
Release form: tablets, concentrate for infusion

Active ingredient: vinpocetine

Cavinton is an analogue of Actovegin in tablets. The drug has a positive effect on blood circulation and metabolism in the brain area. The product also increases the consumption of glucose and oxygen by the tissues of this organ. Cavinton has the following positive properties: it increases the resistance of neurons to hypoxia, switches the process of glucose breakdown to an energy-efficient, aerobic pathway, and increases the levels of AMP and GMP in the brain.

A substitute for Actovegin in tablets is prescribed for the following neurological disorders and pathologies:

1. Lack of blood circulation in the brain area.
2. Transient ischemic attack.
3. Chronic vascular diseases of the membrane and retina of the eye.
4. Thrombosis of the central artery and vein of the retina.
5. Perceptual hearing loss.
6. Meniere's disease.

The drug has a wider spectrum of action. Reviews about these drugs are equally positive, since they are not effective for these disorders and pathologies.

Actovegin or Piracetam – which is better?

Manufacturer: OZON, Russia
Release form: tablets, injection solution

Active ingredient: piracetam

Piracetam is an analogue of Actovegin tablets and injections. The drug is a nootropic drug that has a positive effect on metabolism and blood circulation in the brain. The drug is quickly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.

Piracetam has a wide spectrum of action and is prescribed to patients of different age groups for the following disorders:

1. Chronic cerebrovascular insufficiency.
2. Ischemic stroke and its consequences.
3. Psychoorganic disorders.
4. Dementia.
5. TBI.
6. Acute viral neuroinfection.
7. Vestibular nystagmus.
8. Sluggish apathetic state.
9. Aphasia.
10. Cortical myoclonus.
11. Epilepsy.

An analogue of Piracetam is prescribed to children with cerebral palsy, after perinatal damage to the central nervous system, in the case of mental development, speech disorders, mental retardation.

Both of these drugs are effective for these diseases. A consultation with a neurologist is required.

Indications and contraindications for the use of medications

"Cortexin" is intended to eliminate the following conditions:

1. Autonomic cerebral disorders. Together with other pharmacological agents, it is used in the treatment of epilepsy, acute and chronic forms of pathologies of the spinal cord and brain.
2. Diffuse brain damage of various nature.
3. Traumatic brain injuries of varying degrees of complexity, consequences arising from TBI.
4. Impaired blood flow in the tissue structures of the brain.
5. Pathologies of the central nervous system of bacterial and viral origin.

The medicine can be used to treat not only adult but also pediatric patients. Cortexin is recommended for young children to increase mental abilities, with various forms of cerebral palsy, delays in speech or psychomotor development.

Actovegin is used much more often and is indicated for use in the following situations:

1. Radiation damage to the skin.
2. Burns.
3. Bedsores.
4. Angiopathy of various etiologies.
5. Endarteritis.
6. Varicose veins
7. Ulcers.
8. Encephalopathy.
9. Skull injuries.
10. Stroke.
11. Endocrine, neurological disorders. The drug is indicated for threatened miscarriage or difficult pregnancy. It has a beneficial effect on the health of the fetus and the expectant mother. In childhood, therapy should be carried out under the strict supervision of a pediatrician.

The main contraindications for the use of Cortexin are:

1. Pregnancy, lactation period.
2. Hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.

"Actovegin", in turn, should not be used for:

1. Fluid retention in the body.
2. Heart failure.
3. Kidney pathologies.
4. Pulmonary edema.

In addition, the use of the medicine is impossible if patients have ordinary intolerance to the components. In this regard, a control test should be done before starting therapy. In particular, this applies to pediatric patients.

Also, you should not use Actovegin during the lactation period, as it may cause harm to the baby. Is it possible to use Cortexin and Actovegin injections together?

Actovegin or Cerakson - which is better?

Manufacturer: TAKEDA PHARMACEUTICALS, Spain
Release form: oral solution

Active ingredient: citicoline

Ceraxon is an analogue of Actvigen, which is prescribed to patients of different age groups. The drug is recommended for neurological diseases and disorders associated with the functionality and blood flow of the brain. Before starting the course, it is necessary to take into account existing restrictions, precautions and drug interactions.

You should not engage in self-diagnosis and therapy, as this can lead to negative and undesirable consequences. A consultation with a neurologist is required.

For disorders of brain activity, both Actovegin and its analogue Ceraxon can be used.

Actovegin or Kurantil - which is better during pregnancy

Manufacturer: BERLIN HEMI, Russia
Release form: tablets

Active ingredient: dipyridamole

Curantil is an analogue of Actovegin and a vasodilator with myotropic action. The drug has an inhibitory effect on platelet aggregation and improves blood flow. The drug is a vasodilator. Prescribed for older patients and children over 12 years of age. The medication can be used during pregnancy, but only as indicated. Therefore, during this period it is better to use Curantil rather than Actovegin.

This substitute for Actovegin must be taken in case of impaired cerebral circulation of the ischemic type, discirculatory encephalopathy, coronary artery disease, thrombosis, thromboembolism, placental insufficiency, impaired microcirculation of any type.

The medicine can also be used as an interferon inducer and immunomodulator.

Actovegin analogues are nootropic drugs that are prescribed to patients for neurological diseases associated with impaired blood circulation and brain functionality. Before starting the course, it is imperative to exclude contraindications and take into account drug interactions, as well as the age category of the patient.

How are the drugs Actovegin and Cortexin similar?

Both drugs consist of natural ingredients , which reduces the risk of developing allergies or side effects.

For the production of Cortexin, the subcortical layer of the brain of cattle is used, and for the production of Actovegin, the blood of young calves up to 1 year is used.

These drugs are used to improve cerebral circulation and are used for diseases such as encephalopathy, angiopathy, and also for traumatic brain injuries.

Can be used together in the absence of allergies or individual intolerance to individual components.

Answers on questions

Actovegin tablets or injections – which is better?

These release forms have the same composition and effectiveness. They differ only in the time of onset of action. The injections will begin to have a positive effect on the body faster.

Injections Actovegin intravenously or intramuscularly - whichever is best

The drug can be prescribed to the patient either intravenously or intramuscularly. When used intravenously, it is important to calculate the dosage correctly. Effectiveness with intravenous administration will be observed faster.

How to inject Actovegin intramuscularly: to dilute or not

The drug for intramuscular injection does not need to be diluted.

Actovegin – increases or decreases blood pressure

The drug gradually dilates blood vessels, so it can reduce blood pressure.

Is Actovegin and Cerebrolysin possible at the same time or not?

The simultaneous use of these two drugs in treatment is allowed. But it is worth considering that you cannot combine them in one syringe and make simultaneous injections.

Is it possible to take Actovegin with alcohol or not?

This drug, like its analogues, is not recommended to be combined with alcoholic beverages, even with minimal alcohol content. This can lead to irreversible consequences.

Actovegin ointment or gel – which is better?

These release forms do not differ in composition, therefore they are equally effective. The only difference is that the ointment takes longer to absorb than the gel.

When is it better to inject Actovegin: morning or evening

Since the drug is prescribed several times a day, it is injected both in the morning and in the evening.

Does Actovegin thin the blood or not?

The drug thins the blood.

Is Actovegin possible for oncology or not?

For malignant tumors, Actovegin can be prescribed to the patient unless there are other contraindications.

Are Actovegin injections painful or not?

The injections are not particularly painful. During the injection, the patient may experience some discomfort.

Simultaneous use

As already indicated, for encephalopathy diseases of various agenesis, Cortexin is used as the main drug, and Actovegin is a secondary one. These medicines are used in combination; they combine well with each other.

The only peculiarity of using Actovegin and Cortexin at the same time is that it is not advisable to mix these medications in a dropper and inject them together. When administering these drugs intramuscularly, it is recommended to draw them into separate syringes and administer them in this form.

Actovegin plus Cortexin should be injected alternately. Simultaneous injections of these drugs are often prescribed to children who have various birth injuries or disorders of the nervous system. In some situations, doctors prescribe injections of a second drug simply to be on the safe side. They do not have a negative effect on the child, but there is no urgent need for them either. This therapy is often prescribed by pediatric neurologists in public hospitals.