What is Semax?
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from the ACTH (4-10) fragment, developed in the
1980s at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences. It has
been used clinically in Russia in neurological settings, including ischaemic stroke, and has
attracted increasing international research interest because of its potential
neuroprotective and cognitive effects. Russia has formally included Semax in clinical and
regulatory documentation relating to stroke care.
The mechanism of action of Semax is primarily nootropic and neurotrophic. Experimental
research shows that Semax can influence the BDNF/TrkB system, one of the major
pathways involved in neuroplasticity, synaptic function and neuronal survival. Studies have
demonstrated increased BDNF expression following Semax administration, although much
of the detailed mechanistic work has been conducted in animal models. Semax also
appears to influence monoaminergic signalling, including dopaminergic and serotonergic
pathways, which may contribute to its effects on attention, cognitive processing and
neurological function.
Intranasal administration provides a practical route for delivering Semax, with the nasal
mucosa offering access to neurological pathways associated with the olfactory and
trigeminal systems.
Each vial contains a ready-to-use nasal solution with approximately 85 sprays, providing
approximately 235 mcg of Semax per spray

• Concentration: 20 mg / 10 ml
• Total volume: 10 ml
• Form: Nasal spray
• Approximately: 85 sprays per vial
• Approximately: 235 mcg Semax per spray
• Frequency: 1-2 times per day, preferably morning or early afternoon
Avoid administration late in the day where it interferes with sleep.
Typical protocol: 2-4 weeks on, followed by 2 weeks off.
Store refrigerated between 2°C and 8°C. Protect from direct sunlight, moisture and heat
sources. Do not freeze. After opening, keep the product tightly closed.

Semax has accumulated a substantial body of research through several decades of use
and investigation in Russia and Eastern Europe.
Clinical research has focused particularly on ischaemic stroke and neurological recovery,
with studies reporting improvements in neurological and functional parameters and
investigating changes in BDNF during rehabilitation. Experimental studies have additionally
demonstrated effects on BDNF expression, synaptic plasticity and monoaminergic
signalling.
Research outside Russia remains more limited, and many of the detailed molecular
mechanisms currently attributed to Semax originate from preclinical models.
Nevertheless, its combination of clinical neurological experience and mechanistic
research makes Semax one of the better-characterised neuropeptides in this category.

• Mild nasal irritation related to intranasal administration
• Mild transient headache in some individuals
• Possible stimulation or difficulty sleeping if administered late in the day
Semax has generally demonstrated good tolerability in available clinical and experimental
literature.

• Selank: A complementary neuropeptide combination. Semax is primarily used for
cognitive, neurotrophic and neuroprotective support, while Selank is primarily
studied for anxiolytic and stress-modulating effects. Together they provide a
complementary approach targeting both cognitive performance and emotional
regulation.
• NAD+: Provides metabolic and mitochondrial support for neuronal function. NAD+
is an essential cofactor in cellular energy metabolism and complements the
neurotrophic mechanisms associated with Semax.
• Delta Sleep (DSIP): May complement daytime cognitive support through its
research applications in sleep regulation and neurological recovery

• Enhancement of concentration and cognition: Semax is studied for its potential
to support working memory, attention and cognitive processing, with mechanisms
involving neurotrophic and monoaminergic signalling.
• Neuroprotective effect via BDNF: Experimental studies demonstrate modulation
of BDNF and TrkB signalling, supporting neuroplasticity, synaptic function and
neuronal survival.
• Support for memory and learning: Research has explored Semax in relation to
memory formation, learning and neurological recovery, with effects likely involving
neurotrophic signalling and synaptic plasticity.
• Neurological recovery: Semax has been clinically investigated in neurological
populations, particularly in the context of ischaemic stroke and recovery following
cerebral ischaemia.
• Cognitive support without significant sedation: Unlike sedative neurological
agents, Semax is primarily studied for nootropic rather than sedating properties,
making it of interest where cognitive function and mental clarity are the primary
objectives.