Disclaimer
CompoundIQ publishes research summaries for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing on this site constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider. Many compounds listed are research chemicals not approved for human use.
Cortagen
Also known as: Ala-Glu-Asp-Leu
Cortagen is a synthetic tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Leu) developed as part of the Khavinson peptide bioregulator research program in Russia. It is categorized as an adrenal cortex bioregulator with purported cardioprotective and stress-resilience properties. Evidence is limited almost entirely to Russian-language publications and small, non-randomized studies.
Risk Level
Medium RiskDifficulty
Advanced| Molecular Formula | C17H28N4O9 |
| Class | Peptide |
| Category | Underground Peptides |
Mechanism of Action
Proposed to regulate gene expression in adrenal cortex cells by interacting directly with DNA through complementary peptide-DNA binding. Theorized to normalize cortisol synthesis and adrenal function, modulate stress response pathways, and provide cardioprotective effects through HPA axis regulation.
Dosing Research
Typically available as 10 mg capsules taken 1-2 times daily for 10-30 days. Some protocols use intramuscular injection. Often used in conjunction with other Khavinson peptide bioregulators. Repeat courses recommended every 3-6 months.
Side Effects & Risks
Very limited safety data. Russian studies report minimal adverse effects. Theoretical risks include HPA axis disruption with prolonged use. No serious adverse events documented in available literature, but the evidence base is extremely small.
Research Studies
Related compounds
Semaglutide
PeptideSemaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for type 2 diabetes (Ozempic) and chronic weight management (Wegovy). Clinical trials demonstrated average weight loss of 15-17% of body weight. It has become one of the most widely discussed medications in modern weight management.
Tirzepatide
PeptideTirzepatide is a dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist approved for type 2 diabetes (Mounjaro) and obesity (Zepbound). It has demonstrated unprecedented weight loss efficacy in clinical trials, with participants losing up to 20-25% of body weight. It represents the cutting edge of pharmaceutical weight management.
Liraglutide
PeptideLiraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for type 2 diabetes (Victoza, 1.8 mg) and obesity (Saxenda, 3.0 mg). It was the first GLP-1 agonist approved specifically for weight management. While effective, it has been largely superseded by semaglutide and tirzepatide in terms of weight loss efficacy.
PT-141
PeptidePT-141 (bremelanotide) is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide melanocortin receptor agonist that was FDA-approved in 2019 as Vyleesi for the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder in premenopausal women. Unlike PDE5 inhibitors, it acts centrally through the melanocortin system to increase sexual desire rather than just facilitating erection mechanics. It is the only FDA-approved on-demand treatment targeting central sexual arousal pathways.
Disclaimer
CompoundIQ publishes research summaries for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing on this site constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider. Many compounds listed are research chemicals not approved for human use.