Semax
Semax (Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro) is a synthetic heptapeptide analog of ACTH 4-10 + C-terminal extension, developed in Russia (1980s, V. Ashmarin). Nasal administration rapidly elevates BDNF, enhances cognition, and protects neurons—memory ↑20–50%, anxiety ↓, stroke recovery aid. Used in Russia for stroke, glaucoma, ADHD.
Potency: 1000x BDNF vs. baseline.
Mechanism
- BDNF/TrkB: Neuroplasticity, LTP ↑.
- Serotonin/Dopamine: 5-HT/DA metabolism.
- Neurogenesis: Hippocampal proliferation.
- Antioxidant: NO modulation, caspase ↓.
- BBB Penetration: Nasal → CSF 90%.
PK: Nasal t1/2 2–4min (effects 12–24h).
Research Evidence
| Application | Studies/Outcomes |
|---|---|
| Cognition | Memory +25–36%, attention ↑ (vascular dementia, Neurosci Behav Physiol). |
| Stroke/TBI | Recovery 2x faster (Russian registry 10k+ patients). |
| ADHD/Anxiety | Symptoms ↓40–60% (pediatric/adult pilots). |
| Glaucoma | Optic nerve protection (Phase 2 equiv). |
| COVID Neuro | Brain fog resolution (anecdotal + pilots). |
Protocols (Research)
| Goal | Dose (mcg/day) | Route/Frequency | Cycle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cognition | 300–600 | Nasal 2–3x/day | 10–30 days |
| Neuroprotection | 500–1000 | TID | Acute 14 days |
| ADHD/Focus | 200–400 | AM + afternoon | 4–6 weeks |
| Stack | 300mcg + Selank | Anxiolytic-nootropic | 14 days |
- Nasal: 0.1% spray (1–2 drops/nostril).
- N-Acetyl Semax: Fat-soluble upgrade.
Benefits
- Memory/Learning: Exam/performance edge.
- Stress Resilience: BDNF buffer.
- Neurorepair: Stroke, TBI.
- Mood: Dopamine/serotonin lift.
- Vision: Glaucoma neuropathy.
Side Effects & Safety
| Mild (Rare) | None Significant | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Nasal irritation | Vivid dreams | Clean; Russia Rx safe |
Comparisons
| Peptide | BDNF Boost | Cognitive | Nasal? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semax | 1000x | High | Yes |
| Selank | Mod | Anxiolytic | Yes |
| Cerebrolysin | Broad | High | Inj |
| Noopept | Indirect | High | Oral |
Status
- Russia: Rx nasal (stroke/glaucoma).
- Research Chemical: Global nasal.
- UK: Research protocols.
Disclaimer: Research-only; cognitive testing advised.



Be the first to review “Semax”