Also known as: ACTH(4-7)-PGP
Semax is a synthetic ACTH-derived cognitive peptide approved in Russia studied for enhancing memory, focus, and neuroprotection by upregulating brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).
BDNF upregulation, nootropic effects. Enhances neural plasticity, protects neurons from oxidative stress, and improves cerebral blood circulation.
⚠️ Educational only · Not medical advice · Consult a doctor · Most peptides are research-only / not FDA-approved for human use
Semax (also known as ACTH(4-7)-PGP) is a prominently researched experimental compound classified strictly within the Cognitive Peptide framework. Operating primarily through advanced pharmacological pathways, its core mechanism of action is as follows: it bDNF upregulation, nootropic effects. Enhances neural plasticity, protects neurons from oxidative stress, and improves cerebral blood circulation. with a documented biological half-life of roughly 0.33 hours, In preclinical investigative trials and independent academic studies, researchers utilizing Semax have documented significant, quantifiable biological outcomes, primarily focusing on mental clarity, focus, neuroprotection. Typical research protocols investigate administering 300 to 300mcg via nasal pathways 7x/wk. However, it is critically important to understand that while Semax demonstrates profound physiological potential in highly controlled laboratory settings, it remains classified strictly as a research chemical and has not been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for human therapeutic, diagnostic, or dietary consumption. Independent chemical analysis via rigorous third-party Certificate of Analysis (COA) testing utilizing High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Mass Spectrometry (MS) remains the industry gold standard for verifying its base elemental stability when reconstituted appropriately in sterile bacteriostatic water.
BDNF upregulation, nootropic effects. Enhances neural plasticity, protects neurons from oxidative stress, and improves cerebral blood circulation.
Human trial showing cognitive improvement including enhanced attention, memory formation, and learning capacity.
ModerateDolotov et al. demonstrate Semax significantly upregulates BDNF and its receptor TrkB in the rat hippocampus, providing mechanistic basis for its nootropic effects.
PreclinicalClinical-electrophysiologic studies report high efficacy of Semax in acute ischemic stroke patients, with significant neuroprotective effects and improved functional recovery.
Moderate-StrongMolecular study showing Semax modulates expression of multiple neurotrophin genes including BDNF and nerve growth factor, supporting its broad neuroprotective mechanism.
PreclinicalfMRI study in healthy individuals demonstrates Semax modulates brain functional connectivity networks, providing imaging evidence for its nootropic effects.
ModerateA study published in Acta naturae investigating the effects and mechanisms.
PreclinicalA study published in Journal of molecular neuroscience : MN investigating the effects and mechanisms.
PreclinicalA study published in Biomedicines investigating the effects and mechanisms.
PreclinicalA study published in Cellular and molecular neurobiology investigating the effects and mechanisms.
PreclinicalA study published in Journal of inorganic biochemistry investigating the effects and mechanisms.
PreclinicalNasal spray common; well-tolerated. Approved in Russia/Ukraine. Not FDA-approved in the US.
See our evidence grading methodology for how we evaluate and grade peptide safety data.
⚠️ For educational purposes only. Not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before using any peptide.
Nasal spray: 1-2 sprays per nostril. Can cycle 5 days on/2 off.
Last updated: 2026-01 · Laws change frequently. Verify current status in your jurisdiction.
Week 1
Noticeable cognitive enhancement: sharper focus, mental clarity, faster recall within days
Weeks 2–4
BDNF-mediated improvements in memory consolidation and mood stability
Month 2–3
Neuroprotective adaptation; reduced cognitive fatigue under stress
Long-term
Sustained cognitive baseline improvement; may support neurogenesis
| Side Effect | Incidence | Severity |
|---|---|---|
Nasal irritation Intranasal administration only | ~8% of users | mild |
Mild headache | ~5% of users | mild |
Irritability at high doses | ~3% of users | mild |
Finding verified, high-purity Semax requires rigorous COA verification. We independently evaluate vendors based on third-party HPLC testing, purity thresholds (≥98%), and batch-specific documentation.
View COA-Verified Semax✓ Third-party tested·✓ US shipping·✓ COA on every batch
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Dr. E. Vance
Editorial Director, PeptiDex
Dr. E. Vance is the Editorial Director at PeptiDex and leads the platform's editorial division, ensuring that every published research summary meets rigorous preclinical citation standards. With a Ph.D. in Molecular Pharmacology from Columbia Univers...
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