Semax
Russian nootropic derived from ACTH — potent BDNF upregulation, enhanced focus, and neuroprotection. Approved in Russia/Ukraine.
Research facts
| Half-life | Minutes (nasal) / ~1–2h with nasal absorption |
|---|---|
| Route | Nasal spray |
| Typical dose | 200–600 mcg/day intranasal |
| Frequency | Once or twice daily |
| Solvent | Sterile saline or BAC water |
| pH | 5.0–7.0 |
| Stability | 30 days at +4°C after reconstitution |
Mechanism of action
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide (Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro) based on the 4–10 fragment of ACTH with a Pro-Gly-Pro extension. It does not activate the ACTH receptor (no adrenal effects), but activates melanocortin-4 receptors (MC4R) and potently upregulates BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) and its receptor TrkB in the hippocampus. BDNF is the primary driver of neuroplasticity, long-term potentiation, and new memory formation. Semax is approved for use in Russia and Ukraine for ischaemic stroke, optic nerve atrophy, and peptic ulcer disease. In healthy volunteers, it enhances attention, working memory, and information processing speed.
Documented effects (research-model)
- BDNF upregulation — primary neuroplasticity driver
- Enhanced focus, attention, and working memory
- Neuroprotection in ischaemic models
- Optic nerve regeneration research
- Dopamine and serotonin system modulation
- Stress resilience (HPA axis modulation without cortisol elevation)
Research protocols
| Protocol | Dose | Frequency | Cycle | Vial |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 200–300 mcg nasal spray | Once daily (morning) | 4–8 weeks | 1mg / nasal preparation |
Research context only. Not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before any protocol decision.
Synergies
Myths & misconceptions
Evidence gaps
- Most human data is Russian-language literature with methodological limitations by Western standards.
- No large-scale Western RCTs for cognitive enhancement in healthy adults.
- Long-term BDNF effects with sustained use (>8 weeks) not studied — BDNF upregulation is beneficial short-term; chronic effects are unclear.
Safety notes
Approved drug in Russia/Ukraine with established safety profile. Nasal route means minimal systemic exposure. Mild stimulatory effects — avoid late afternoon dosing. No significant adverse events reported.
Biomarkers to monitor
Primary-source citations
- PMID 17369559 — Semax as a nootropic agent: effects on rat behaviour and brain (Peptides. 2007)
Frequently asked
What is Semax?
Semax (ACTH(4-7) Pro-Gly-Pro — Synthetic Neuropeptide) is a research compound classified in our library as Tier D — Animal or in-vitro data only.. Russian nootropic derived from ACTH — potent BDNF upregulation, enhanced focus, and neuroprotection. Approved in Russia/Ukraine.
What is the evidence tier for Semax?
We classify Semax as Tier D: Animal or in-vitro data only. See our full peptide evidence tiers explainer for how we assign S/A/B/C/D.
What is the research dose of Semax?
For Semax, typical research dose is 200–600 mcg/day intranasal, route is Nasal spray, half-life is Minutes (nasal) / ~1–2h with nasal absorption. Protocols vary by research goal — see the protocols section on this page for standard and advanced dosing schedules. Research use only, not medical advice.
What does Semax stack well with?
Semax stacks well with Selank. Semax (stimulatory, BDNF/dopamine) + Selank (anxiolytic, GABA/serotonin). Complementary cognitive/neuro profile — popular combination in Russian nootropic protocols.
Is Semax safe?
Approved drug in Russia/Ukraine with established safety profile. Nasal route means minimal systemic exposure. Research context only — no compound on this site is approved for human therapeutic use unless explicitly noted.