Semax
Also known as: Semax
A synthetic peptide derived from ACTH(4-10) developed in Russia and used there for cognitive enhancement, stroke recovery, and neuroprotection. Often used intranasally.
Last updated
Mechanism of Action
Semax is a heptapeptide analog of ACTH(4-10) that lacks corticotropic activity but exerts strong neurotropic effects. It increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its receptor TrkB, modulates dopaminergic and serotonergic systems, and influences the expression of genes related to neuroplasticity. It also inhibits enkephalin-degrading enzymes, raising endogenous regulatory peptide levels.
- Half-life
- Short in plasma (minutes), but central effects last several hours
- Administration Routes
- intranasal, subcutaneous
- Research Status
- Research Chemical
Reported Benefits
- Increases BDNF and supports neuroplasticity
- May enhance focus, memory, and learning
- Neuroprotective effects studied in stroke and ischemia
- Used in Russia for cognitive and neurological indications
- Generally well tolerated with mild profile
Potential Side Effects
- Mild nasal irritation with intranasal use
- Occasional overstimulation or restlessness
- Headache (uncommon)
- Limited Western clinical data
Common Dosing
Research and Russian clinical references cite ~200-600 mcg per day intranasally, sometimes divided. Educational range only, not advice.
The dosing information above is aggregated from research literature and anecdotal community reports for educational purposes only. It is not a recommendation, prescription, or medical advice. Peptides are sold as research chemicals only and are not intended for human use.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Acute psychiatric agitation (theoretical)
- Not approved outside of certain countries
Selank
A synthetic analog of the immunomodulatory peptide tuftsin developed in Russia for anxiety reduction and cognitive support without the sedation or dependence of benzodiazepines.
PE-22-28
A spadin-derived peptide studied as a fast-acting antidepressant candidate that works by blocking the TREK-1 potassium channel, with reported neurogenic and neuroprotective effects.
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[The efficacy of semax in the tretament of patients at different stages of ischemic stroke]
2018
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Effects of Semax on the Default Mode Network of the Brain
2018
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Semax and Pro-Gly-Pro activate the transcription of neurotrophins and their receptor genes after cerebral ischemia
2010
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The peptide semax affects the expression of genes related to the immune and vascular systems in rat brain focal ischemia: genome-wide transcriptional analysis
2014