Semax
Semax (ACTH 4-10 analog)
Focus and memory
Cognitive ★ 75
Half-life
Short (minutes), but effects last 24 hours
Cycle
4-8 weeks on, 2 weeks off.
Storage
Lyophilized: freezer. Reconstituted: 2-8°C, 14 days.
Research
Approved in Russia for stroke and cognitive symptoms
About
A Russian nootropic peptide, analog of ACTH(4-10). Increases BDNF and NGF.
Mechanism
Increases BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) and NGF. Modulates dopamine and serotonin.
Dosage
250-500 mcg
1-2x per day (nasal)
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Draw to 20 units on a U-100 insulin syringe
5 mg · 2 mL BAC
Route
Intranasal
Duration
4-6 weeks
When to take: Morning and afternoon. Not too late — can cause sleep problems.
Reconstitution
Vial size (mg): 5 mg · BAC water (mL): 2 mL · Concentration: 2500 mcg/mL
Most often used as a nasal spray.
Benefits
- Improved focus and concentration
- Faster memory and processing
- Neuroprotection
- Improved mood
- No crash after use
- Supports nerve repair
Side effects
- Very well tolerated
- Rare: overstimulation if dosed too late
- Nasal irritation
Gender notes
Same dose. Popular for cognitively demanding work.
Cautions
- Pregnancy
- Psychiatric disorders (caution)
- Hypertension (mild interaction)
Research
- Kaplan AY et al: Semax effects on attention
Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine · 2011
Russian study on Semax and attention.
- Levitskaya NG: Semax neuroprotection
Neuroscience Letters · 2008
Mechanistic study of Semax's neuroprotective effects.