Semax
Synthetic ACTH Analog (4-10)
Synthetic heptapeptide based on the ACTH(4-10) fragment. Approved in Russia as a nootropic since the 1990s. Studied for BDNF expression, cognitive function, and neuroprotection.
Aliases: ACTH(4-10), Semax heptapeptide
- Research score
- 7/10
- Reality tier
- established
Key fact
Heptapeptide ACTH analog that increases BDNF 3-fold; approved in Russia as prescription nootropic for stroke recovery and cognitive enhancement
Mechanism
Heptapeptide analog of ACTH(4-7) with C-terminal Pro-Gly-Pro extension. Increases BDNF protein levels (1.4-fold) and trkB tyrosine phosphorylation (1.6-fold), upregulates BDNF mRNA (3-fold) and trkB mRNA (2-fold) in hippocampus, modulates serotonergic and dopaminergic neurotransmission, activates MAPK/ERK signaling cascades.
Evidence note
Approved in Russia since 1990s. Multiple animal and human studies on BDNF, cognitive function, and neuroprotection.
Community evidence
- Source window English Reddit Updated 12 Aug 2026 · 6-month window
- Coverage confidence Low Confidence in the available community sample
- Distribution Pending Not enough data for a distribution.
Selected reports
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2mo agor/TBI · Comment
I buy Semax online from a company in TX and they prepare it for me I just use it 5 days a week. I think it’s helped a lot with my focus but it’s only been a few weeks. Came here to see if anyone’s but doing injection longer and if they’ve noticed a change
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4 months agor/PeptideProgress · Post
Before I describe what the effects were there is a disclaimer: I have been struggling with mental health and anxiety problems for years. I'm 10 months sober from taking valium and currently on medication (periciazine, a antipsychotic to manage my anxiety) I also realise my
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5 months agor/Nootropics · Post
I’ve now run both nasal Semax and subQ injectable Semax, and I wanted to share my experience along with patterns I keep seeing across threads. Dose and cycle at bottom TLDR: Both work really well for me, effects from nasal are more immediate but also more dampened. Overall
Based on 5 qualifying reports from 5 threads. 33 candidates excluded as duplicates, promotion, deleted content, or lacking concrete personal experience. Reddit self-reports are not medical evidence or proof of causation.
Studies
Semax neuroprotective effects in ischemia
Demonstrated neuroprotection and improved cognitive outcomes post-ischemic injury.
Open source · PMID 16996037Semax and BDNF expression
Significantly increased BDNF mRNA expression in rat hippocampus and cortex.
Open source · PMID 17186529Semax prevents learning and memory impairment caused by transient cerebral ischemia
Semax administration prevented spatial learning and memory impairment in rats following cerebral ischemia, supporting neuroprotective applications.
Open source · PMID 22036090
FAQ
Is intranasal or subcutaneous administration better for Semax?
Intranasal is the standard route used in Russian clinical practice and most research protocols. It provides rapid onset (5-15 minutes) and bypasses first-pass metabolism. Subcutaneous injection is less common but used by some researchers. The nasal spray format is preferred for convenience and established dosing protocols.
Is Semax injectable?
No. Semax is supplied as a ready-to-use nasal spray — no reconstitution or injections required.
What is Semax approved for?
Semax is an approved prescription medication in Russia for stroke recovery and cognitive disorders. It is sold for research purposes in the US.
For research and educational use only. This content is not medical advice.