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
Semax dosing overview
300–600 mcg daily, split doses, in 2–4 week cycles
| Context | Amount | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commonly cited protocol | 300–600 mcg | Daily in split doses, 2–4 week cycles | Intranasal |
This describes doses reported in published literature and community protocols. It is not a recommendation, and it is not a substitute for clinical supervision.
Semax FAQ
What is Semax?
A synthetic analogue of an ACTH(4-10) fragment, developed in Russia, that raises BDNF expression without the hormonal activity of ACTH itself.
Is Semax approved anywhere?
It is a registered medicine in Russia for stroke and cognitive indications. It has no approval in the US, UK or EU.
Why intranasal?
The peptide is degraded quickly and does not cross the blood-brain barrier well from circulation; nasal delivery is used to shorten the route to the CNS.
Research references
- Kaplan et al., 1996 — Semax and cognitive function