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Tools›Compare›Cerebrolysin vs IGF-1 LR3

Cerebrolysin vs IGF-1 LR3

Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.

Cognitive EnhancementAnti-Aging & Longevity
Cerebrolysin
Anabolic & IGF
IGF-1 LR3
Summary
Cerebrolysin is a porcine brain-derived neuropeptide complex that mimics the action of endogenous neurotrophic factors (BDNF, NGF, GDNF, NT-3). It promotes neurogenesis, neuroprotection, and synaptic plasticity, and is approved in many countries for stroke, traumatic brain injury, and Alzheimer's disease.
IGF-1 LR3 is a synthetic analog of Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 with an extended half-life. It is one of the most potent anabolic peptides available, directly stimulating muscle cell hyperplasia and hypertrophy, and is the downstream mediator of many of GH's anabolic effects.
Half-Life
Variable for the complex; individual peptide fractions: minutes to hours
20–30 hours
Admin Route
IV, IM
SubQ, IM
Research
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Typical Dose
5–10 mL
40–80 mcg
Frequency
Daily for 10–20 days
Once daily or split twice daily
Key Benefits
  • Promotes neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity
  • Approved for stroke rehabilitation (accelerates recovery)
  • Alzheimer's disease: slows progression and improves cognition
  • Traumatic brain injury recovery
  • Enhances memory and executive function
  • Neuroprotection against oxidative stress and excitotoxicity
  • Anti-amyloid and anti-tau effects
  • Mood improvement and reduced anxiety
  • Direct muscle hypertrophy via IGF-1R stimulation
  • Muscle hyperplasia (new fiber formation) — unique among peptides
  • Rapid gains in lean muscle mass
  • Accelerated recovery from training and injury
  • Increased nutrient uptake by muscle cells
  • Fat oxidation enhancement
  • Bone density improvement
  • Cartilage and connective tissue repair
Side Effects
  • Generally well tolerated
  • Mild nausea and dizziness (IV infusion)
  • Headache at initiation
  • Rare: agitation (usually at very high doses)
  • +2 more
  • Hypoglycemia (significant risk — insulin-like activity)
  • Acromegaly-like effects with excessive long-term use
  • Jaw and hand swelling
  • Organ hypertrophy with extreme doses
  • +2 more
Stacks With
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