Tesamorelin vs Cortexin
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
Tesamorelin
Tesamorelin is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). It is FDA-approved under the brand name Egrifta for reducing excess abdominal fat in HIV-infected patients with lipodystrophy.
Full details →Cortexin
Cortexin is a polypeptide complex derived from pig brain cortex, used clinically in Russia and Eastern Europe for neurological conditions including stroke recovery, traumatic brain injury, and cognitive decline.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Tesamorelin | Cortexin |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Stimulates the pituitary gland to produce and release growth hormone by binding to GHRH receptors. Increases IGF-1 levels which promotes lipolysis and reduces visceral adipose tissue. | Contains a mixture of neuropeptides and amino acids that support neuronal metabolism, provide neuroprotection, and enhance synaptic transmission. Specific mechanisms not fully characterized. |
| Typical Dosage | FDA-approved dose: 2mg administered subcutaneously once daily. Research protocols may use various dosing schedules. | Clinical protocols: 10mg intramuscularly once daily for 10-20 days. May be repeated after 3-6 month interval. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection into the abdomen. Rotate injection sites. Best administered at the same time daily, preferably in the evening. | Intramuscular injection. Comes as lyophilized powder requiring reconstitution. Treatment given in courses rather than continuously. |
| Side Effects | Common side effects include injection site reactions (erythema, pruritus), joint pain, peripheral edema, and muscle pain. May cause elevated blood glucose. | Generally well-tolerated. May cause injection site reactions or mild allergic responses in sensitive individuals. |
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