Semax

About

Semax is a synthetic peptide first developed by Russian researchers in the 1980s as an analog of the ACTH(4-10) fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone. It is authorized in Russia and Ukraine for indications including ischemic stroke, encephalopathy, optic-nerve atrophy, and cognitive disorders, and is most commonly administered as an intranasal solution. Research has explored potential benefits in neurological conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, and cognitive impairment.

Research Applications

• Cognitive performance
• Neuroprotection
• Mood regulation

Mechanism of Action

Semax stimulates neurotrophic factors in the central nervous system - notably brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) - and appears to influence serotonin, dopamine, and enkephalin signaling.

Molecular Info

Class

Peptide

Structure

Analog of the ACTH(4-10) peptide (ACTH(4-7)PGP)

Common route

Intranasal solution (0.1% and 1% formulations)

Primary research areas

Cognition, neuroprotection, and mood

Dosing Guidance

Range

Clinical references describe intranasal use, with the 0.1% nasal-drop formulation cited at roughly 200-900 mcg per day depending on indication.

Frequency

Clinical references describe splitting the daily intranasal amount across two or three administrations.

Timing

Timing is not consistently defined across the available research references.

Cycle length

Cycle length is not consistently defined across the available research references.

Notes

Semax is most commonly described as intranasal rather than injectable. These details are educational context only, and protocol values should not be treated as medical instructions.

Known Risks

• Injection-site reactions reported for injectable formulations

Regulatory & Evidence Status

Evidence level

Limited clinical studies outside Russia and Ukraine.

FDA status

Not approved.

Availability

Authorized for certain neurological indications in Russia and Ukraine.