Semax
250 mcg · Tue/Thu/Sat
Evidence
- Human Studies
- 15
- Animal Studies
- 50
- Clinical Status
- Off-label
- Confidence
- Low
- Long-Term Safety
- Established within Russian clinical use; limited independent replication elsewhere
What this score is: a measure of how much research exists and how far along it is (animal-only vs. human trials, research-stage vs. FDA approved) — not how safe, effective, or worth trying a compound is. A low score usually means “early stage” or “understudied,” not “bad.” A high score doesn’t mean “better” for your goals than a lower-scored one.
This is not my personal rating of the compound, not a recommendation, and not medical advice. It’s a general research synthesis for informational purposes only, not a live literature count. See the linked research and talk to a licensed clinician before making decisions based on it.
Mechanism
Semax is a synthetic ACTH fragment developed in Russia, studied for effects on BDNF expression and neuroprotection. It is registered as a prescription nasal spray in Russia for cognitive/stroke indications, but is not FDA approved or independently replicated at the same scale in Western research.
Common Protocols
- 200–300 mcg, intranasal or subcutaneous, 3x/week
- Most traditional use is intranasal, not injected
Side Effects
- Nasal irritation (intranasal route)
- Anecdotal reports of overstimulation/anxiety at higher doses
Interactions
- Limited formal interaction data; caution combining with other stimulating nootropics
Practical Details
- Cost
- $
- Typical Vial Size
- 5 mg
- Storage
- Refrigerate after reconstitution
Research Links
Paired with Selank, boosts cognition