Cognitive Research
Semax
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.
Read full reportWhat 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
MembersMembers can compare additional reported doses, schedules, and preparation notes.
Educator coverage (4)
Attributed viewpoints, separate from primary research.
- International Peptide Society 2018 Compound CurriculumDr. William Seeds · 2018-07-20
- Peptides to Promote Cellular HealthDr. Suzanne Ferree · 2025-09-15
- N-Acetyl Versions of Semax Selank Are They Really BetterHunter Williams · 2026-03-29
- Peptides for Depression: Selank, Semax, and the EvidenceJay Campbell · 2026-06-27
Trust & sourcing
FDA identifies potential immunogenicity and peptide-impurity risks for compounded semax and says proposed-route safety information is limited.
Primary sources
- Certain bulk drug substances for use in compounding that may present significant safety risksU.S. Food and Drug Administration · 2026-04-22
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