Cognitive

Semax

Heptapeptide · ACTH(4–7) analogue · 7 amino acids

FDA · NOT REVIEWED (RUSSIAN RESEARCH)

Half-life

~4 minutes

Very short

minsdays

Route

SubQ injection

Evidence

Approved therapeutic

Risk

Standard

Overview

Known for

Nootropic peptide. Synthetic analogue of ACTH (4-10). Enhances BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), improves memory, attention, and cognitive performance. Neuroprotective. Used clinically in Russia for stroke recovery and cognitive disorders.

Mechanism

Synthetic ACTH(4-10) analog — neuroprotective + nootropic. Enhances BDNF, NGF expression. Approved in Russia for stroke, cognitive disorders.

Key facts

Format
Lyophilized powder
Mechanism targets
Classification
Authoritative
Supply & nature
ExogenousExogenous
FDA category
Not reviewed (Russian research)

Evidence & standing

Evidence base
Approved therapeutic
Risk level
Standard
Best studies
5 references
  • Ashmarin et al. (1995) Neurosci Behav Physiol 25:276-8 — Cognitive enhancement
  • Approved in Russia/Ukraine for stroke, cognitive disorders
  • NOT FDA APPROVED in USA/EU/Australia
  • ACTH(4-10) analog with additional amino acids
  • Multiple Russian clinical trials but limited English-language publications

Dosage & protocol

Typical dose
200-600mcg
Research range
100–300 µg
Cycle
2 weeks on / 2 weeks off
Onset
0 days first effects
Full effect
21 days
Half-life
~3-5min
~3-5 minutes (intranasal — rapid CNS access)
Protocol

Intranasal: 200-600mcg 2-3x daily. SubQ: 100-300mcg daily.

Time to effects

EARLY: 15-30 minutes

FULL: 2-4 weeks

First dose: Cognitive stimulation within 15-30 minutes of intranasal use. Improved focus, motivation, mental clarity. Some compare it to a 'clean stimulant'.

Week 1-2: BDNF upregulation. Improved memory, learning capacity, and attention span.

Week 2-4: Neuroprotective benefits. Sustained cognitive enhancement.

Immediate effects are noticeable from dose one. Cumulative BDNF benefits build over weeks. Minimum commitment: 2-4 weeks. Many cycle: 4 weeks on, 2-4 weeks off.

Recommended vial
  • 5mg vials — RECOMMENDED

At 600mcg/day, 5mg = ~8 days ✓. Same fragility as Selank. 5mg for freshness. 10mg = ~17 days ✓ also fine.

Reference figures only

Dosing reflects published laboratory protocols and is not guidance for use in any living subject.

Safety

Reversibility
Fully Reversible
Side effects

Nasal irritation, mild headache (rare), hair growth (anecdotal — BDNF/follicle stimulation). Very well tolerated.

Interactions

MAOIs (theoretical, as Semax affects dopamine/serotonin), stimulants (additive)

Handle with research caution

  • Caution if history of seizures (BDNF upregulation may lower seizure threshold in susceptible individuals)

Storage & handling

Lyophilised
12–24 months
2–8°C
Reconstituted
2–4 weeks
2–8°C

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