Actovegin: Nootropic Benefits, Dosage, & Side Effects

Actovegin enhances cellular metabolism by promoting glucose transport across plasma membranes and increasing oxygen uptake in tissues. This deproteinized calf blood hemoderivative provides cells with more energy, improving their function and offering neuroprotective effects that support cognitive performance.

Actovegin contains various physiologically active ingredients including amino acids, oligopeptides, nucleosides, and antioxidants that work together to enhance healing processes and reduce inflammation.

Widely used in Europe and Russia for decades, Actovegin shows promising results for cognitive enhancement, stroke recovery, and diabetic neuropathy treatment, though its legal status varies globally with limited FDA approval in the United States.

Actovegin at a Glance

Actovegin in Summary

Actovegin is a nootropic supplement that is derived from deproteinized calf blood hemoderivative. It offers a range of cognitive benefits, such as improved oxygen and glucose uptake in the brain, neuroprotection, and stimulation of nerve growth factors. Research into Actovegin has generally been positive, and side effects are rare when taken as directed.

Pros of Actovegin:

• Promotes neuroprotection
• Stimulates nerve growth factors
• Improves oxygen and glucose uptake in the brain

Cons of Actovegin:

• Difficult to find high-quality Actovegin
• Not widely available

What is Actovegin?

Actovegin is an antihypoxic medication derived from deproteinized calf blood hemoderivative, which contains a mixture of physiologically active ingredients that enhance cellular metabolism and treat various medical conditions including burns, ulcers, and diabetic neuropathy. Actovegin improves the body’s utilization of glucose and oxygen, enhancing the healing process in damaged tissues while providing neuroprotective effects that support cognitive function.

Actovegin® is unique because it has pharmacodynamic actions that can be summarized to a common goal – enhancing cellular metabolism. But what does this mean?

This means that Actovegin contains inositol-phospho-oligosaccharides, which mediate an insulin-like activity that enhances glucose and oxygen uptake and utilization by the body’s cells. This results in improved energy metabolism in tissues with insufficient oxygen and glucose supply, leading to faster healing times and reduced inflammation.⁽¹⁾

Actovegin has several beneficial effects in clinical settings. For example, Actovegin has been shown to improve blood flow and reduce limb pain in patients with circulatory disorders, including those with peripheral arterial disease.⁽²⁾

Trophic disturbances of the brain, such as post-stroke, can be improved with Actovegin treatments. Scientifically backed research has found that cognitive function is enhanced, and memory impairments are significantly reduced when using this medication.⁽³⁾

Actovegin has also shown benefits in treating acute and chronic wounds, such as burns and pressure ulcers. It promotes tissue regeneration, improving the healing process and reducing the risk of infection.⁽⁴⁾

Actovegin is a combination of various physiologically active ingredients:

• Amino acids, e.g., ornithine, leucine, alanine, glutamate, proline, glycine, taurine, etc.
• Oligopeptides
• Lipids
• Oligosaccharides
• Nucleosides, e.g., adenosine, uridine.
• Antioxidants
• Electrolytes, e.g., Na, Cl, K, Mg, Ca, F, Fe.
• Microelements, e.g., Cu, Si, Se, Zn.

History and Legal Status of Actovegin

Actovegin was first developed in the 1950s by the Austrian company Nycomed (now part of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company). The drug gained popularity in Eastern Europe and Russia, where it has been used for decades to treat a variety of conditions including stroke, dementia, and peripheral vascular disorders.

Development Timeline

• 1950s: Initial development of Actovegin as a therapeutic agent
• 1970s: Widespread adoption in Eastern European medical practice
• 1990s: Increased research into its neuroprotective properties
• 2000s: Growing interest in its potential cognitive enhancement effects
• Present: Continued use in medical settings and increasing popularity as a nootropic

Legal Status by Region

Actovegin’s approval status varies significantly around the world:

• European Union: Approved in some countries (Germany, Austria) but not centrally approved by the European Medicines Agency
• Russia and CIS countries: Widely approved and available, often without prescription
• Asia: Approved in China, South Korea, and several Southeast Asian countries
• United States: Not FDA-approved for any medical use
• Australia: Not approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration
• United Kingdom: Available but not commonly prescribed by the NHS

The varying legal status has contributed to Actovegin’s somewhat controversial reputation, despite its long history of clinical use in many countries. This regional disparity in approval also explains why many users source Actovegin through international suppliers rather than local pharmacies.

How Does Actovegin Work In The Brain?

The mechanism of Actovegin’s action involves several cellular processes. Actovegin promotes glucose transport into cells, increases the activity of key enzymes involved in energy metabolism, and stimulates the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy source in cells. Additionally, Actovegin reduces oxidative stress in cells, which can damage them and impair cell metabolism.⁽⁵⁾

By blocking apoptosis caused by the beta-amyloid peptide (Aβ25-35), Actovegin also modulates nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NFkB) – a protein complex responsible for controlling both inflammation and cell death in central and peripheral nervous systems.

Studies have demonstrated the efficacy of Actovegin in various preclinical and clinical models. In human studies, treatment with Actovegin reduced inflammation and improved blood flow in the brain, which is essential for proper functioning.⁽⁶⁾

Studies have shown that Actovegin can have potential neuroprotective effects and enhance cognitive function. Animal studies have found that treatment with Actovegin improves spatial memory and learning in rats.⁽⁷⁾

In human studies, Actovegin has also been shown to reduce cognitive impairment in patients with post-stroke cognitive impairment and to improve cognitive function in patients with dementia.

One study found that treatment with Actovegin improved neurological outcomes and cognitive function in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI).⁽⁸⁾

That said, Actovegin’s efficacy also varies depending on the delivery method. For example, intravenous administration is usually preferred in cases of severe wounds and peripheral artery disease, whilst topical or gel forms are used for diabetic wound healing.⁽⁹⁾

Nuclear poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase, otherwise known as PARP, plays an essential role in detecting and repairing single-stranded DNA. Unfortunately, excessive activation of this enzyme can cause cellular death if conditions like cerebrovascular disease or diabetic neuropathy are present. Actovegin is a beneficial solution that reduces the activity of PARP, subsequently leading to improved function and appearance of the central nervous system.

What Is Actovegin Used For?

The active ingredient in Actovegin is deproteinized calf blood extract, which contains a mixture of bioactive substances, including amino acids, oligopeptides, and trace elements.

The clinical applications of Actovegin are somewhat controversial, and there is limited evidence to support its use in many cases. Some studies have suggested that Actovegin can be useful in treating various conditions, including peripheral artery disease, diabetic neuropathy, and traumatic brain injury.

However, other studies have failed to find significant benefits of Actovegin in these or other conditions.

The therapeutic effects of Actovegin have been intensely studied in treating diabetic foot ulcers, with evidence suggesting that it is an invaluable asset to speeding up the healing process and curtailing the risk of infection.⁽¹⁰⁾

Actovegin is not only employed in clinical settings, but certain athletes such as Lance Armstrong and his U.S. Postal Service Pro Cycling Team allegedly utilized the substance for performance-enhancing purposes during their 2000 Tour de France race. However, scientific evidence of its effectiveness and safety remains inconclusive.

Although the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) does not directly prohibit using Actovegin, it is still in a grey area and considered a doping agent. Athletes should consult with their coaches and trainers before using it.

What Are The Benefits Of Actovegin For Cognition?

Actovegin promotes the transport and utilization of glucose and oxygen in the brain, which improves cognitive function.

Here are some of the benefits of Actovegin for cognition:

• Increased brain energy metabolism
• Improved memory and attention
• Reduced brain damage from injury or aging
• Enhanced recovery from stroke or traumatic brain injury
• Improved cognitive function in elderly patients with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease

Actovegin has shown promising results in the areas of cognitive function and brain health. However, more research is needed to understand the drug’s effects and mechanism of action fully.

Where To Buy Actovegin Online?

We highly recommend CosmicNootropic, which is an online source of Actovegin. They offer a variety of Actovegin products, including ampoules and tablets. They ship their products worldwide, offering fast shipping regardless of the customer’s location.

Actovegin is commercially available in three primary forms:

• Ampoules (5 ml): Ready-made solutions for intravenous or intramuscular injection containing deproteinized calf blood extract, primarily used for treating stroke, traumatic brain injury, peripheral artery disease, and diabetic neuropathy.

• Tablets (200 mg and 400 mg): Convenient oral formulations preferred by nootropic users seeking cognitive enhancement and improved brain health.

• Topical gel (20% concentration): Applied directly to the skin for wound healing, particularly for diabetic ulcers and burns.

CosmicNootropic offers two of these forms:

• 5x Actovegin Ampoules (5 ml) for $35 USD
• 50x Actovegin Tablets (200 mg) for $80 USD

CosmicNootropic has a reputation for providing quality products, so you can rest assured that you’ll get the best product available.

If you’re interested in purchasing Actovegin online, you can get your hands on Actovegin here.

Purchasing Actovegin Tablets: Complete Guide

When looking specifically to buy Actovegin tablets, there are several important factors to consider:

Available Tablet Dosages

Actovegin tablets typically come in the following dosages:

• 200 mg tablets – Most common for cognitive enhancement and general use
• 400 mg tablets – Higher potency option for more significant cognitive benefits
• 600 mg tablets – Available in some markets, typically used for therapeutic purposes

Pricing Information for Actovegin Tablets

Pricing for Actovegin tablets varies based on dosage and quantity:

• 200 mg tablets (50 count) – Approximately $80 USD from CosmicNootropic
• 200 mg tablets (100 count) – Typically ranges from $140-160 USD depending on supplier
• 400 mg tablets (50 count) – Usually priced between $120-140 USD

Bulk purchases often come with discounts, with some vendors offering 5-10% off when purchasing multiple boxes.

Shipping and Availability

When purchasing Actovegin tablets online:

• Shipping times typically range from 7-21 days depending on your location
• Tracked shipping is available from most vendors for an additional fee
• Import restrictions may apply in certain countries, particularly the United States where Actovegin is not FDA-approved
• Customs clearance may occasionally delay shipments, so plan accordingly

Prescription Requirements

The prescription requirements for Actovegin tablets vary by country:

• In most European countries, Actovegin requires a prescription
• In Russia and many Eastern European countries, it’s available over-the-counter
• When purchasing online, some vendors may not require a prescription, but this doesn’t guarantee legality in your country

Storage and Shelf Life

For optimal effectiveness of your Actovegin tablets:

• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• Typical shelf life is 2-3 years from the manufacturing date
• Check the expiration date on the packaging before purchasing
• Avoid purchasing tablets that are within 6 months of expiration

What Do People Say About Actovegin On Reddit?

Let’s look at what people are saying about Actovegin on Reddit.

According to n00bPwner on the Reddit Nootropic subreddit:

“I’ve been using Actovegin for a few months now and my cognitive performance has improved drastically. I feel more awake, alert and focused while taking it.”

In another thread on the same subreddit, user u/george278 claims that:

“Actovegin has really helped me with memory and concentration. I find it easier to stay focused for longer periods of time now, which is great for studying! It’s also amazing for athletic performance – my stamina is through the roof.”

According to u/Werkforcevii:

“I’ve been taking Actovegin for a while now, and so far it’s been great. I feel sharper, more alert, and my concentration has improved greatly. It also helps me get into deep flow states quickly and easily.”

Overall, people seem to have positive experiences with Actovegin. However, it is important to note that everyone’s experience will differ, so it’s best to consult a healthcare professional before trying this supplement.

How Do You Take Actovegin For Cognitive Enhancement?

The dosing and administration of Actovegin for cognitive enhancement can vary depending on the individual.

However, here are some general guidelines:

• Actovegin is typically administered intravenously, although it may also come in pill or injection form.
• The drug is usually given in cycles of several weeks, with a break in between cycles.
• The dose may vary depending on the individual’s needs and response to the drug.
• Actovegin can be taken with or without food, as food is not known to affect its absorption or efficacy.
• The best time of day to take Actovegin depends on the individual’s schedule and preferences, but it is generally recommended to take it at the same time each day (either morning or noon).

Cycling may be needed to prevent the body from developing tolerance to the drug, although this will also depend on the individual’s response to the drug.

People who take oral Actovegin for nootropic purposes usually follow this schedule:

• 1 to 3 tablets of Actovegin 3 times a day
• The tablets are taken before meals
• The duration of the course is 4-6 weeks

It is important to adhere to the prescribed dosage and timing of administration to achieve the desired therapeutic effect.

Missing doses of Actovegin should be avoided if possible, but don’t worry if you forget one. Simply take the missed dose as soon as it is remembered unless the next scheduled intake is shortly after.

If this happens close in time with another planned dosage, simply skip that and resume your regular dosing schedule instead of taking double for a single dose.

What Is The Recommended Dosage For Actovegin?

The recommended dosage of Actovegin varies depending on the patient’s age, gender, health conditions, etc.

Let’s look at the general recommended dosage for adults, down below:

For Ischemic Stroke

For individuals experiencing an intense ischemic stroke, Actovegin® treatment should start from day 5-7 post-stroke with a dosage of 2000 mg daily. This can be given either intra-arterial or intravenous injections at 10 to 29 ml daily.

If necessary, it may also include several times of slow injections every week in smaller dosages – just 5 ml each time.

Post-stroke Cognitive Impairments

Beginning 5-7 days after a stroke, Actovegin® should be administered intravenously with doses of up to 2000 mg daily for 20 infusions. After this initial period, continue the treatment by taking two tablets three times daily (1200 mg/day) for six months in total.

Dementia

For four consecutive weeks, Actovegin® is given intravenously at a daily dosage of 2000 milligrams.

Peripheral Circulatory Disorders & Related Complications

For optimal results, Actovegin® should be infused intravenously or intra-arterially (IA) at a dosage of 800–2000 mg daily for four weeks.

Diabetic Neuropathy

Intravenously, 2000 mg of the drug should be administered in 20 infusions daily. Afterward, switch to oral tablets with a dose of 3 pills taken three times daily for 1800mg/day total. The duration of treatment is 4-5 months long.

It is important to note that Actovegin should be taken exactly as a healthcare provider prescribes. Taking too much of this medication can lead to serious side effects. Follow the directions carefully and consult your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns.

What Are The Side Effects Of Actovegin?

Like any other medication, Actovegin is not without side effects. Below, we have listed the most common ones:

• Immune system complications are rare but possible side effects of Actovegin. One such complication is drug-induced fever, which is characterized by an increase in body temperature. Another possible complication is an allergic reaction, which can result in symptoms of shock. Although these complications are rare, patients who experience them should seek immediate medical attention.
• Skin and subcutaneous complications are other potential side effects of Actovegin. Hives, also known as urticaria, can appear suddenly and cause itching and redness. In some cases, patients may also experience sudden redness of the skin, which can be accompanied by a burning sensation.
• Musculoskeletal and connective tissue complications are not commonly reported with Actovegin, but muscle pain, also known as myalgia, is a possible side effect. Myalgia can be characterized by a dull ache, and patients who experience this complication should inform their healthcare provider about it.

Overdosing with Actovegin is uncommon since the drug is non-toxic, even in doses 30-40 times larger than the recommended dose. There have been no reported cases of overdose with Actovegin. 

What Nootropics Are Similar To Actovegin?

Actovegin belongs to a specialized category of animal-derived nootropics, with Cerebrolysin and Cortexin standing out as the most pharmacologically similar alternatives that share comparable mechanisms of action and cognitive enhancement properties.

• Cerebrolysin: Cerebrolysin is a nootropic peptide that has similar effects to Actovegin. Like Actovegin, Cerebrolysin increases oxygen flow to the brain and improves cognitive function. It also stimulates nerve cell growth and repairs damaged cells. Benefits of Cerebrolysin include improved memory, cognitive performance, and neuroprotection.⁽¹¹⁾
• Cortexin: Cortexin is a nootropic peptide that works similarly to Actovegin. It is derived from animal brain tissue and promotes the growth and repair of neural cells. Cortexin also enhances learning and memory and reduces the risk of stroke.⁽¹²⁾

What Brain Supplements Can Actovegin Be Stacked With?

Actovegin synergizes effectively with several complementary nootropic compounds that target different cognitive pathways, creating enhanced overall cognitive performance when properly stacked. NooCube represents an optimal stacking partner for Actovegin due to its blend of acetylcholine-boosting ingredients like Alpha GPC and Huperzine A, which complement Actovegin’s metabolic enhancement mechanisms while L-Theanine in the formula helps mitigate potential overstimulation.

NooCube is a potent nootropic blend formulated using natural ingredients, including Alpha GPC, Huperzine A, and L-Theanine. Alpha GPC is an important source of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh), which facilitates communication between neurons and plays a vital role in cognitive processes such as memory formation and learning.

Huperzine A is an alkaloid that is used to improve cognitive performance by inhibiting the breakdown of ACh in the brain. L-Theanine helps reduce stress and supports calmness and alertness, allowing users to stay focused for longer.

By stacking Actovegin with NooCube, users can benefit from synergistic effects that enhance their overall mental performance. NooCube provides the perfect foundation for stacking, as it contains natural nootropic ingredients that work harmoniously with Actovegin to support cognitive function.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Now let’s look at some of the commonly asked questions about Actovegin.

Conclusion

So what do we know about Actovegin?

This peptide supplement is derived from animal brains and increases cellular metabolism, respiration, and oxygenation. It also stimulates the growth of nerve cells, and repairs damaged neural pathways.

Actovegin has many cognitive benefits, including improved memory, enhanced learning, and better concentration. It can be stacked with other nootropic supplements, such as NooCube, to amplify its effects.

It is either injected intravenously or taken orally, and its effects generally become noticeable after a few weeks of taking it. Actovegin is safe to use, with no reported serious side effects.

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