Cortexin or Cerebrolysin, which is better for VSD?

In the modern world there are almost no unique substances; any category of objects is represented by a broad group. From an evolutionary point of view, the more different creatures in an ecosystem, the more resistant it is to adverse factors. In the environment of human interaction, the phenomenon when one product has many options, forms and manufacturers is called competition. Thanks to this, better representatives remain on the market, and the rest disappear.

Cortexin and Cerebrolysin are nootropics. Nootropics are medications that improve brain function and stimulate cognitive processes (learning, memory, thinking). They also protect neurons from damaging influences and promote faster recovery of central nervous system structures in neurological diseases.

Indications

Both drugs have common indications for use:

• Encephalopathy
• Brain infarction
• Cerebrovascular disease
• Intracranial trauma

There is a fairly large number of studies that prove the positive effect of neuropeptides (which contain Cortexin and Cerebrolysin) on the healing of nerve structures after damage.

However, there are also differences. Cortexin can be used if:

• Asthenic (emotionally labile) disorders.
• Disorders of speech, language, learning skills.
• Cerebral palsy.
• Intellectual-mnestic dysfunctions.
• Delayed developmental stages.
• Malaise and fatigue.

The fact is that Cortexin has a strong influence on cognitive processes associated with the transmission of impulses in the central nervous system.

Cerebrolysin is used in the following cases:

• Dementia of various etiologies.
• Alzheimer's disease.
• Depression.
• Excessive activity (pathological motor activity).

Studies have revealed the ability of Cerebrolysin to normalize the ratio of excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters, which is now actively used in medicine.

Speaking about indications for use, it is important to say that Cerebrolysin appeared quite a long time ago - in the 1970s. During its existence, a fairly large amount of information has accumulated about its effects in clinical trials and in practice.

Cortexin is a newer drug, it appeared about 20 years ago, but the experience of its use is already quite large and contains enough data on positive effects.

Cerebrolysin and Cortexin: comparison of drugs

Both drugs belong to a broad group of nootropic drugs.
These medications stimulate metabolism in the tissues of the nervous system, providing nutrition and development of neurons (brain cells). This promotes the formation of new replacement neural connections, bypassing damaged cells. Both are neuropeptides - protein molecules that are formed in the nervous system and have high biological activity. You can read more about the composition and mechanism of action of Cerebrolysin and Cortexin on our website in separate articles devoted to these drugs.

To answer the question of what is more effective than Cortexin or Cerebrolysin, you need to pay attention to the fact that many scientific sources say that Cerebrolysin is the only nootropic drug for which neurotrophic activity has been proven. It supports the viability of brain cells, activates their growth and development.

In turn, Cortexin is the only nootropic drug that stimulates mental functions and has a positive effect on the pathological electrical activity of the brain. This is proven by many psychological tests and EEG (electroencephalography) results. Thus, Cortexin is indicated for epilepsy, because has a moderate anticonvulsant effect.

Compound

Both drugs have a similar composition - they are polypeptides from the cerebral cortex of animals. Cerebrolysin is made from the nerve structures of pigs, and Cortexin is made from cattle.

There are some differences in the manufacturing process. Cerebrolysin is obtained by breaking down brain proteins into their components. The disadvantage of this method is that the likelihood of destruction of the necessary aminopeptides increases. In the manufacture of Cortexin, lyophilization (freezing and vacuum processing) is used. Due to this, a direct transition of a substance from a solid to a gaseous state is achieved, which reduces the destruction of proteins and amino acids.

Budget generics

There is no drug with an absolutely identical active ingredient yet. You will have to select nootropics that are similar in composition and effect on the nervous system and brain.

Analogs are cheaper than Cortexin:

• Vinpocetine. Produced in Belarus. Helps improve brain nutrition, relieve hypertension, reduce dizziness and pain. Contraindicated for expectant and nursing mothers, children under 18 years of age.
• Piracetam. Ukrainian analogue. It not only helps to cope with high blood pressure and cephalgia, but also has a relaxing effect and relieves insomnia. Effective for depression, strokes, removes toxins.
• Phezam. Provides blood flow to the brain and spinal cord, is effective in neutralizing the effects of toxic effects on the central nervous system,
• Glycised. Improves the processes of perception, memorization, thinking. Helps you fall asleep at night. Positively affects vision and erectile function. Approved in pediatrics. Not for sale in the Russian Federation.

Side effects

It should be noted that the following reactions may occur in rare cases following the administration of Cerebrolysin:

• Feeling hot.
• Increased sweating.
• Dizziness.
• Heart rhythm disturbances.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Constipation and diarrhea.
• Arterial hypo- and hypertension.
• Feeling tired.
• Depression, apathy.
• Increased excitability, manifestation of aggression.
• Convulsive seizures.
• Allergic reactions.

No adverse reactions were detected when using Cortexin.

Can I take it at the same time?

Both pharmacological agents are compatible. The drugs can be injected simultaneously to obtain an enhanced therapeutic effect. However, you should not give such injections in one go and mix the medications in a syringe.

The disadvantage of this method of carrying out therapeutic measures is the frequent occurrence of allergic reactions to the combined use of medications. This requires the patient to be screened for allergies using a test before administering therapy.

When administering intramuscularly, the medicine must be drawn into different syringes and injections are given in this form. It is advisable to carry out all manipulations one by one during the period of therapeutic measures.

Simultaneous injections of drugs are often prescribed in childhood when receiving various birth injuries or when disturbances in the functioning of the body’s nervous system are detected.

What's best for a child?

Increased demands are placed on medications in pediatric practice in terms of safety and effectiveness. Both Cortexin and Cerebrolysin have found their use in children. Cortexin has shown the best effect for the treatment of epilepsy (as part of complex therapy), convulsive syndrome, cerebral palsy and delayed development of certain brain functions (speech, learning skills). Due to the risk of side effects of Cerebrolysin, the drug is contraindicated for status epilepticus in a child.

Each tool has its own strengths and weaknesses. It is necessary to choose a medicine strictly individually, taking into account the nature of the disease, concomitant pathologies and individual characteristics of the person. There is no ideal universal “pill”; any drug will be effective only in cases where the indications for its use are met.

Differences between drugs

• Cortexin copes well with discirculatory encephalopathy alone; Actovegin can act as a secondary drug in this case. For example, administer Actovegin and Cortexin simultaneously. It is often prescribed to inject medications, alternating with each other (every other day)
• Cortexin is the only medicine that helps infants with central nervous system injury. Moreover, the effectiveness of treatment has high positive indicators
• For chronic fatigue, Cortoxin works faster. If you take the drugs together (with Actovegin), you can cause an allergic reaction. Although this nuance can be replaced by a combination of other medications
• Compared to Actovegin, Cortexin is prohibited from injecting pregnant and lactating women
• The difference between the two drugs is felt in the price. Actovegin costs less

Medical studies have shown that Cortexin is more effective in the treatment of hypoxic or traumatic damage to the brain structure. Actovegin has high effectiveness in the treatment of vegetative-vascular dystonia, but the drug can provoke nervous-reflex overexcitation. Cortexin does not have such indicators. If the patient has a tendency to hysteria, nervous attacks and other similar indicators, it is better to give preference to Cortexin.

Patient reviews

Ksenia, 26 years old, Tomsk

I took Actovegin on the advice of a doctor during pregnancy to improve the nutrition of the placenta in combination with Curantil. The doctor recommended a tablet form of the drug. The price of the product is high; one bottle of the drug is not enough for a course of treatment. I did a follow-up ultrasound and the results improved.

Elena, 2 years old, Omsk

At 3 years old, the child spoke poorly and did not want to eat. We went to a neurologist and prescribed a massage and Cortexin injections. Injected with Novocaine. My son complained a little about pain after the injection. The first course did not help, but the doctor said to pierce it again after 7 months. Now my son is 4 years old and improvements are noticeable.

In neurology, drugs such as Actovegin and Cortexin have become widespread. Both medications belong to the pharmacological group of nootropics and have similar prescription recommendations.

The drugs are used to normalize blood circulation in the brain tissues and improve its functioning, as well as to enhance the emotional background.

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.

What can be replaced in pediatric practice?

Analogues of Cortexin for children are more popular than the original due to the release form. It is easier to give tablets, powder or suspension, and there is no need to calm down after a painful injection.

Children are often prescribed:

• Noofen. For anxiety, weakness, sleep disorders, motion sickness, enuresis, dizziness, stuttering, tics. If used for a long time, it may negatively affect liver function and blood composition. Side effects are rare, but nausea and drowsiness may occur.
• Encephabol. Indications: encephalopathy, conditions after a stroke, organic pathologies of the nervous system, developmental delay. Safe for babies, it is given 3 days after birth. Available in the form of a suspension. Side effects: loss of appetite, rashes, liver problems. Do not take if you have rheumatoid arthritis, liver failure, or kidney problems.
• Gliatilin. The tablets are given only to children over 7 years of age. Kids have to get injections. The action is aimed at optimizing speech and mental development, treating encephalopathy, head injuries received during childbirth and in other situations, treating strokes.

Article on the topic: Instructions for use of the drug Depakin Chronosphere and reviews about it

Which is better Cortexin or Actovegin

It is difficult to answer the question of which nootropic drug is better and more effective. The decision to choose a particular drug should be made by a specialist, taking into account the diagnosis, the individual characteristics of the body, the presence of contraindications in the patient and a tendency to allergies.

Both drugs are highly effective in therapeutic therapy; depending on the diagnosis, they can be prescribed either separately or injected simultaneously. Their compatibility gives a positive result in the fight against numerous diseases.

When treating neurological conditions, only Cortexin can be prescribed to a child, because Actovegin is contraindicated in childhood.