Cognitive Research

Semax

7.1/10

BioHarmony verdict

Strong recommend

Semax is a Russian-developed ACTH 4-7 + PGP heptapeptide with the strongest human signal in post-stroke recovery, including a 110-patient Gusev et al. 2018 study and older Gusev et al. 1997 clinical report, but no eligible recent Western RCT or meta-analysis was found.

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What is Semax?

Semax is a synthetic neuropeptide derived from the ACTH 4-7 fragment with a Pro-Gly-Pro extension added for stability. It was developed in the Soviet and Russian peptide-pharmacology ecosystem and is best known outside Russia as an intranasal nootropic for focus, memory, and neuroprotection, though its registered medical use is regional rather than global.

From the BioHarmony report, reviewed 2026-09-08.

How it is thought to work

BDNF / TrkB and NGF signaling, cholinergic modulation, low-affinity melanocortin receptor activity, and enkephalin-degrading enzyme inhibition

Safety watch-outs

  • Severe agitation or insomnia
  • Nasal irritation or infection symptoms

Full risk profile in the BioHarmony report.

Dosing as published

No approved-label or study protocol is recorded for Semax yet.

More reported protocols

Members

Members can compare additional reported doses, schedules, and preparation notes.

Educator coverage (4)

Attributed viewpoints, separate from primary research.

Trust & sourcing

US approvalNot FDA approved
CompoundingWithdrawn from Category 2 nomination; eligibility is not established
Last checked2026-07-13
Next review2026-10-11

FDA identifies potential immunogenicity and peptide-impurity risks for compounded semax and says proposed-route safety information is limited.

Primary sources

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