Semax

PEPTIDES+ MEMBERS ONLY

INDICATIONS FOR USE

Semax is a synthetic peptide utilized for neuroprotection and cognitive enhancement. It is used off-label for improving focus, memory, and mood, as well as for reducing symptoms of depression or anxiety. It has also been studied for ischemic stroke recovery.

ROUTE OF ADMINISTRATION

  • Intranasal spray.

COMMON INITIAL DOSING REGIMENS

  • 250–1,000 mcg per dose intranasally, administered 1–3 times daily depending on the condition.

MECHANISM OF ACTION

  • Semax is a synthetic analog of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) without hormonal activity. It upregulates brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and other neurotrophic factors, enhancing neuroplasticity, cognitive resilience, and neuronal repair. Semax also modulates dopamine and serotonin systems, contributing to mood stabilization and focus.

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

  • Mild: Nasal irritation, headache, or mild dizziness.

  • Neurological: Restlessness, irritability, or transient mood swings in some individuals.

  • Rare: Fatigue or decreased appetite with frequent high dosing.

  • Long-term safety is not fully established, particularly with prolonged use.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

  • Absolute: Hypersensitivity to Semax or its components.

  • Relative: Caution is advised in patients with mood disorders, as it may exacerbate symptoms of mania or severe anxiety. Limited data exists regarding its use in pregnancy or breastfeeding.

DISCLAIMER: Semax is not FDA-approved and is considered experimental outside its approved indications in Russia.

MORE INFORMATION

  • FDA Safety Data Sheet not available (experimental peptide).

  • Serdiuk AV. The study of chronic partial denervation and quality of life in patients with motor neuron disease treated with semax]. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova. 2007 [PubMed Link]

  • Maslova MV. The effects of ante- and postnatal hypoxia on the central nervous system and their correction with peptide hormones. Neurosci Behav Physiol. 2003 [PubMed Link]

  • Sudakov KV. Evolution of the stress concept. Vestn Ross Akad Med Nauk. 2008 [PubMed Link]

  • Umnov RS. Neuroprotective effects of peptides bioregulators in people of various age. Adv Gerontol. 2013 [PubMed Link]

  • Ashmarin IP. Highly stable regulatory oligopeptides: experience and applications. Patol Fiziol Eksp Ter. 2003 [PubMed Link]