Semax Protocol
ACTH-fragment analog studied in Russian research literature for cognitive and neuroprotective effects.
- Cycle
- 4–8 weeks
Evidence Level: Investigational / Theoretical
Primarily preclinical or very limited human data — mechanism-based reasoning more than a demonstrated clinical effect. Treat as investigational.
Human evidence: Human trials exist primarily within Russian research literature (including for stroke-recovery contexts); independent replication outside that literature is limited.
Animal evidence: Rodent BDNF and neuroprotection studies.
Introduction & Mechanism of Action
ACTH-fragment analog studied in Russian research literature for cognitive and neuroprotective effects.
Synthetic fragment of ACTH(4-10) with an added tripeptide extension; studied for increasing BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) expression, a mechanism linked to neuroplasticity and cognitive research.
Receptors/targets: No confirmed classical receptor — proposed BDNF/neurotrophin-pathway modulation
Areas of Research Interest
- Cognitive research
- Neuroprotection studies
Benefits Reported in Research
- Cognitive research
- Neuroprotection studies
Reported Research Dosing Range
The figures below are cited from published research literature and protocol references — they describe what has been studied, not a personal prescription or instruction.
Reported range: 250–500 mcg
Reported frequency: 1× daily, intranasal
Reported cycle duration: 4–8 weeks
Escalation & maintenance: A dedicated weekly escalation and maintenance schedule specific to this peptide has not yet been published here — follow the dose range and frequency above, titrating conservatively from the low end, and consult a physician before adjusting.
Side Effects
- Nasal irritation (intranasal route)
- Headache (anecdotal)
Contraindications
- Pregnancy
- Seizure disorder (theoretical concern given CNS-active mechanism)
Drug interactions
- Not well characterized in controlled human trials
Safety
- No meaningful human safety database outside Russian research literature
- Independent international replication is limited
Most clinical use and literature originates from Russian research contexts; not FDA/EMA approved.
Expected Results & Comparison
Semax is studied primarily for cognitive/neuroprotective effects, while Selank is studied primarily for anxiolytic effects — the Selank+Semax Blend combines both research angles into one product, though combination-specific trials for that blend do not exist.