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CognitiveLimited

Semax

ACTH(4-10) analogue

A Russian nootropic peptide used clinically there for stroke recovery and cognitive impairment, popular as an intranasal focus aid.

How it works

A non-hormonal ACTH fragment that raises BDNF and NGF expression in the hippocampus and modulates dopaminergic and serotonergic tone without corticotropic activity.

Structure: Heptapeptide (Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro)

Reported benefits

  • Increased BDNF signalling
  • Improved attention and mental stamina
  • Neuroprotective effects in ischaemia models

Practical considerations

  • Nearly all clinical data is Russian-language
  • Effects are subtle and cumulative
  • Often cycled to avoid tolerance

Side effects and risks

  • Nasal irritation
  • Overstimulation or irritability
  • Headache at higher doses

Dosing overview

300–600 mcg daily, split doses, in 2–4 week cycles

This describes doses reported in published literature and community protocols. It is not a recommendation, and it is not a substitute for clinical supervision.

Research references

  • Kaplan et al., 1996 — Semax and cognitive function