Semax
A cognitive-enhancing peptide for focus, memory, and neuroprotection. Semax is a synthetic peptide derived from ACTH (4-10) with neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing properties. Developed in Russia for stroke recovery and cognitive disorders. Studied for memory, focus, neuroplasticity, and BDNF stimulation.
Compare Prices🧬Key Characteristics
- Length: 7 amino acids(Heptapeptide from ACTH fragment.)
- Origin: ACTH (4-10)(Modified pituitary hormone fragment.)
- Administration: Intranasal(Commonly used as nasal spray.)
- Primary Use: Cognitive enhancement(Focus, memory, neuroprotection.)
Overview
Core Benefits
Key AdvantagesThese are educational summaries of commonly discussed effects in wellness/regenerative contexts, not guarantees.
Semax Results Timeline
ProgressionTimeline is illustrative and non-guaranteed. Outcomes vary and are commonly discussed alongside training, nutrition, sleep, and cycling practices.
How It Works
Nootropic Peptide — Cognitive Enhancer / BDNF StimulatorTarget → BDNF Stimulation → Cognitive Enhancement → Outcomes
BDNF/TrkB Pathway + Melanocortin Receptors
Semax is a synthetic fragment of ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) that stimulates Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) production. BDNF is the brain's primary "growth factor" for neurons — supporting learning, memory, and cognitive function.
BDNF Upregulation → Neuroplasticity + Neuroprotection
BDNF activation of TrkB receptors promotes neuronal growth, synaptic plasticity, and neuroprotection. Semax also modulates dopamine and serotonin metabolism, contributing to improved motivation and mood. Unlike Selank (calming), Semax is activating and focus-enhancing.
Enhanced Cognition + Neuroprotection
Improved focus, attention, and mental clarity. Enhanced memory formation and recall. Neuroprotective effects support brain health. Originally developed in Russia for cognitive rehabilitation after stroke.
Mental Clarity → Focus → Motivation (30-90 min onset)
Improved focus and mental clarity, often noticeable within 30-90 minutes. Enhanced motivation and task initiation. Better memory and learning. Effects are activating rather than calming — the complement to Selank's anxiolytic profile.
What Makes This Peptide Different
Semax is the cognitive complement to Selank. Where Selank reduces anxiety (calming), Semax enhances focus and drive (activating). Its BDNF-stimulating mechanism provides genuine neuroprotective benefits beyond just "nootropic" effects. The NA-Semax-Amidate version has enhanced potency and duration.
Dosing Protocol
Cognition / FocusEducational reference only. Individual responses vary. Consult healthcare provider before use.
Why This Dosing Protocol
Why intranasal preferred? Provides rapid CNS access and fast onset (30-60 min). The nasal route bypasses the blood-brain barrier more effectively for cognitive effects.
Why morning? Semax is activating — enhances focus, motivation, and mental energy. Morning dosing aligns with the workday and avoids potential sleep interference.
Diagrams
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Semax Pricing
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5 mg / vial
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Reconstitution calculator
Dilution math and unit conversions. Prefilled using a common vial size for this peptide.
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How to Reconstitute Peptides
Handling
Educational overview on storage, labeling, and traceability considerations for lab environments. Consult primary literature and vendor documentation for specifics.
- Freezer (-20°C): 1+ year ✓
- Refrigerator (2-8°C): 1-3 months ✓
- Room temperature: 2-3 weeks (emergency only)
- MUST refrigerate at 2-8°C
- 4-week maximum shelf life
- NEVER freeze after reconstitution
- Use bacteriostatic water for multi-dose
Storage & Handling Guide
Learn proper storage temperatures, shelf life timelines, reconstitution best practices, and travel tips for lyophilized and reconstituted peptides.
FAQ
How does Semax differ from Selank?
While both are Russian-developed neuropeptides, Semax is derived from ACTH (4-10) and focuses more on cognitive enhancement, neuroprotection, and BDNF stimulation. Selank is derived from tuftsin and has more pronounced anti-anxiety effects. They're sometimes used together.
What is Semax and how does it work?
Semax is a synthetic peptide derived from ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone), specifically the 4-10 fragment with an added Pro-Gly-Pro sequence. It works primarily by increasing BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) and modulating dopamine and serotonin systems. Unlike ACTH, it has no hormonal effects on cortisol.
What is BDNF and why does Semax increasing it matter?
BDNF is a protein that supports neuron growth, survival, and plasticity — essentially "fertilizer for the brain." Higher BDNF is associated with better learning, memory, and mood. BDNF levels decline with age and in depression. By increasing BDNF, Semax may support cognitive function and neural health.
How is Semax administered?
Semax is most commonly used as a nasal spray for direct CNS delivery. Typical dosages range from 200-1000 mcg per day, divided into 2-3 doses. Effects are usually noticeable within 15-30 minutes. It can also be injected subcutaneously. In Russia, it's available as prescription nasal drops.
What cognitive effects does Semax have?
Users report improved focus, concentration, and mental clarity. Research suggests benefits for memory formation and recall, attention, and learning capacity. Some describe it as providing "clean" mental energy without the jitteriness of stimulants. It's used by students, professionals, and those seeking cognitive enhancement.
Is Semax used for any medical conditions?
In Russia, Semax is approved for stroke recovery, traumatic brain injury, cognitive disorders, and optic nerve diseases. It's shown neuroprotective effects in ischemia and may help with ADHD symptoms. Western clinical trials are limited, but Russian medical use provides substantial human data.
Can Semax and Selank be used together?
Yes, the combination is popular. Semax provides cognitive enhancement and focus, while Selank adds anxiolytic and calming effects. Together they may offer balanced mental enhancement — clarity and focus without anxiety. Some find the combination superior to either alone for productivity and well-being.
What are the side effects of Semax?
Semax is generally well-tolerated. Possible side effects include mild nasal irritation (with spray), occasional headache, and rarely dizziness. Some users report hair loss concerns, though evidence is limited. Unlike stimulants, it doesn't cause jitteriness, insomnia, or crash effects. Most users report minimal to no side effects.
How long does reconstituted peptide last?
Once mixed with bacteriostatic water, peptides remain stable for up to 4 weeks when refrigerated at 2-8°C (36-46°F). Unopened powder can last 1+ year in the freezer. Get our complete Storage & Travel Guide.
Is this peptide legal to purchase?
Peptides sold "for research purposes only" are legal to purchase in the US, but are not FDA-approved for human use outside of specific medical applications. Always consult a healthcare provider before use.
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Scientific Sources
The following peer-reviewed studies and official resources provide additional scientific context for this peptide:
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