Overview
Semax is classified as a cognitive peptide peptide. Mental clarity, focus, neuroprotection.
BDNF upregulation, nootropic effects. Enhances neural plasticity, protects neurons from oxidative stress, and improves cerebral blood circulation.
Also known as: ACTH(4-7)-PGP
Category
Cognitive Peptide
Half-Life
0.33h
Route
Nasal
FDA Status
Not Approved
How Does Semax Work?
BDNF upregulation, nootropic effects. Enhances neural plasticity, protects neurons from oxidative stress, and improves cerebral blood circulation.
At the molecular level, Semax operates through pathways characteristic of the Cognitive Peptide class, interacting with target receptors and downstream signaling cascades to produce its observed effects.
Published Research
The following studies are indexed from PubMed and peer-reviewed journals:
[1]Semax cognitive improvement in humans
Human trial showing cognitive improvement including enhanced attention, memory formation, and learning capacity.
Evidence: moderate[2]Semax increases BDNF and TrkB expression in hippocampus
Dolotov et al. demonstrate Semax significantly upregulates BDNF and its receptor TrkB in the rat hippocampus, providing mechanistic basis for its nootropic effects.
Evidence: preclinical[3]Semax high efficacy in acute ischemic stroke
Clinical-electrophysiologic studies report high efficacy of Semax in acute ischemic stroke patients, with significant neuroprotective effects and improved functional recovery.
Evidence: moderate strong[4]Semax modulates neurotrophin gene expression (NGF, BDNF)
Molecular study showing Semax modulates expression of multiple neurotrophin genes including BDNF and nerve growth factor, supporting its broad neuroprotective mechanism.
Evidence: preclinical[5]Semax effects on brain functional connectivity (fMRI)
fMRI study in healthy individuals demonstrates Semax modulates brain functional connectivity networks, providing imaging evidence for its nootropic effects.
Evidence: moderateSafety Profile
Nasal spray common; well-tolerated. Approved in Russia/Ukraine. Not FDA-approved in the US.
| Side Effect | Incidence | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Nasal irritation | ~8% of users | mild |
| Mild headache | ~5% of users | mild |
| Irritability at high doses | ~3% of users | mild |
Sourcing Semax for Research
If you're looking to source Semax for laboratory research, our vendor directory compares pricing, purity testing, and COA verification from independently vetted suppliers.
Disclosure: PeptiDex may earn a commission from affiliate links. This does not affect our recommendations.
Full Research Profile
Semax — dosing, interactions, timelines & more
Comprehensive compound profile with sourcing information, stacking synergies, and outcome timelines.