Semax
Semax (ACTH 4-7 Pro-Gly-Pro)
An ACTH-derived nootropic peptide with neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing properties. Approved in Russia for neurological indications.
Semax is not approved by the FDA for human use. It is sold strictly for research purposes only and is not intended for human consumption, diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of any disease or condition. Purchase and use is entirely at your own risk.
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View at Ascension Peptides →What it is
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide based on the ACTH(4-7) sequence with added Pro-Gly-Pro. Developed by the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, it has regulatory approval in Russia for ischemic stroke and cognitive impairment.
Notable for its ability to rapidly upregulate BDNF and NGF (nerve growth factor), with effects appearing within hours of administration.
What research shows
- Rapid BDNF and NGF upregulation in animal and some human studies
- Neuroprotective effects following stroke in clinical research
- Improved cognitive performance, attention, and memory in some studies
- Potential benefit in ADHD-like symptoms in small-scale research
What remains unknown
- Long-term effects with extended use
- Dose-response characterization in healthy humans
- Comparative effectiveness versus pharmaceutical interventions for cognition
Administration basics
Common use cases
Cognitive enhancement, neuroprotection, focus, ADHD symptom support.
Half-life
Very short in plasma (~7 minutes), but CNS effects persist significantly longer.
Administration
Intranasal drops primarily. Subcutaneous injection also used.
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View at Ascension PeptidesResearch Protocols & Common Usage
Doses used in research
- Russian clinical research has used 300–600mcg intranasally per day
- Community protocols commonly report 300mcg–1mg/day intranasally
Administration routes studied
Typical protocol duration
Russian research protocols commonly used 10–14 day courses. Community use ranges from acute use to 2–4 week cycles.
Common stacking protocols
- Semax + Selank — widely reported combination for cognitive enhancement paired with anxiolytic effects
- Semax + BPC-157 — combined in some neuroprotective protocols
- Semax + Pinealon — combined in some Russian-derived neuroprotective stacks
Contraindications & combinations to avoid
- Blood pressure elevation — Semax may raise blood pressure at higher doses; caution with hypertension
- Seizure history — exercise caution given neurological activity
- Psychiatric medications — theoretical interaction with BDNF-modulating antidepressants; consult a physician
Dosing information reflects doses used in published research and commonly reported community protocols only. This is not a personal recommendation. These compounds are not FDA-approved for human use in the contexts described. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any protocol.
Considering stacking?
See the stacking guide for common combinations with Semax and what to avoid.
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Community Reviews
Reviews reflect individual user experiences with research compounds and are not medical advice. Results vary. These compounds are not FDA approved for human use. Peptelligent does not verify reported experiences.
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