Semax
Russian nootropic peptide derived from ACTH for memory and focus
Half-life
~30 min (intranasal)
Typical Dose
250-1000mcg intranasal
Format
Nasal
Purity
≥98%

Overview
Semax is a synthetic analog of an ACTH fragment, developed in Russia. Used as a nasal spray for cognitive enhancement, memory, and stroke recovery research.
Sequence & properties
Sequence, colored by side chain
Length
7 aa
Avg mass
813.9 Da
Theoretical pI
5.36
Net charge (pH 7)
-0.8
Mechanism
Heptapeptide derived from ACTH(4-10). Modulates BDNF and NGF expression, dopamine and serotonin systems, and shows neuroprotective effects.
Researched benefits
- Enhanced memory and learning
- Neuroprotection
- BDNF and NGF upregulation
- Improved attention
- Stroke recovery research
Frequently asked
What is semax derived from?
Semax is a synthetic analog of ACTH(4-10) with a proline-glycine-proline tail that blocks enzymatic degradation. The modification removes the hormonal activity of ACTH while preserving the neuroactive fragment.
What is the BDNF connection?
Published work reports that semax increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor and nerve growth factor expression in the hippocampus. BDNF is central to synaptic plasticity, which is the proposed mechanism behind the cognitive findings.
Why is semax delivered as a nasal spray?
Intranasal delivery targets the nose-to-brain pathway and avoids the gastrointestinal breakdown that would destroy the peptide if swallowed. This is the standard route in both Russian clinical use and research protocols.
Semax vs selank?
They are complementary rather than interchangeable. Semax is researched for attention, memory, and neuroprotection; selank for anxiolytic effects. Both come from the same peptide research lineage and share the stabilizing PGP tail.
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