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Last reviewed: March 2026Sources: PubMed, FDA, WADA Prohibited List

Evidence graded using the PeptideScholar A-D system

Semax

BHuman Studies

Synthetic ACTH(4-10) analog · 7 amino acids

Not FDA ApprovedWADA Banned

Semax is a synthetic peptide derived from the ACTH(4-10) fragment, developed in Russia as a nootropic and neuroprotective agent. It is approved in Russia for stroke, cognitive disorders, and optic nerve disease.

Mechanism of Action

Enhances BDNF and NGF expression. Modulates dopaminergic, serotonergic, and cholinergic neurotransmission. Increases cerebral blood flow and has anti-inflammatory effects in the CNS.

Benefits

  • Neuroprotective effects in stroke (Russian clinical trials)
  • Enhanced memory and cognitive performance
  • Approved in Russia for multiple neurological conditions
  • No hormonal effects despite ACTH origin
Not Medical Advice — Research-Reported Information Only

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

Semax — Dosing in Published Research

Reported Routes: Intranasal, Subcutaneous injection
Russian approved dosing: 200-600 mcg intranasal daily. Higher doses (up to 1.2 mg) used for acute stroke treatment.

The dosing information above is sourced from published research literature and clinical trials. These are not recommendations. Individual responses vary. Always consult a healthcare provider before considering any peptide-based therapy.

Side Effects

  • Well-tolerated in Russian clinical use
  • Mild headache rarely
  • Nasal irritation with intranasal use
  • Limited Western safety data

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Semax is not FDA-approved. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before considering any peptide.

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Research & Evidence

RCTZhurnal Nevrologii i Psikhiatrii, 2007

Semax in the treatment of ischemic stroke

Semax improved neurological outcomes and reduced disability when administered within 12 hours of ischemic stroke onset

PMID: 17369778
AnimalDoklady Biological Sciences, 2010

Neuroprotective effects of Semax

Semax upregulated BDNF and NGF expression in rat brain, supporting its neuroprotective mechanism

PMID: 20228553

Compare Semax With

Semax vs Selank

References

  1. 1. Semax in the treatment of ischemic stroke. Zhurnal Nevrologii i Psikhiatrii, 2007. “Semax improved neurological outcomes and reduced disability when administered within 12 hours of ischemic stroke onset” [PMID: 17369778]
  2. 2. Neuroprotective effects of Semax. Doklady Biological Sciences, 2010. “Semax upregulated BDNF and NGF expression in rat brain, supporting its neuroprotective mechanism” [PMID: 20228553]

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations.

Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or modifying any treatment. Do not disregard professional medical advice based on information found on this site.

No claims of therapeutic efficacy are made for substances that are not FDA-approved for the discussed indications. Research citations reflect published findings and do not imply endorsement.

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