Selank
Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro
SELANK is a next-generation anxiolytic peptide developed in Russia. A synthetic 7-amino-acid peptide derived from tuftsin, it is designed to help reduce anxiety, improve stress resilience, and promote emotional stability. It works by supporting the balance of key neurotransmitters (GABA, serotonin, dopamine) and the HPA axis, without sedative effect or addictive potential. Non-sedating and non-addictive, it aims to restore balance rather than alter the state of consciousness.
Chemical identity
- Sequence
- Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro (TKPRPGP)
- Molecular formula
- C33H57N11O9
- Molecular weight
- 751.9 g/mol
- CAS no.
- 129954-34-3
Purity (HPLC) measures the absence of related impurities; it is distinct from net peptide content, since salts and counter-ions (acetate, TFA) count toward the vial mass. Account for this when computing the real concentration at reconstitution.
Potential benefits
Anxiety reduction
Helps reduce anxiety and promotes a state of calm and well-being.
Mental clarity
Promotes clear thinking, better concentration, and sustained attention.
Stress resilience
Improves stress resistance and helps better manage stressful situations.
Neuroprotection
Supports brain health and protects neurons against oxidative stress.
Emotional balance
Promotes emotional stability and contributes to better control of emotions.
Quality sleep
May help improve sleep quality and promote optimal recovery.
Mechanism of action
- Modulation of the GABAergic system: anxiolytic effect without sedation, promotes mental relaxation and reduces anxiety.
- Serotonin regulation: improves mood, helps stabilize emotions, and reduces mild depressive symptoms.
- Dopamine support: supports motivation, concentration, and natural reward without excessive stimulation.
- Regulation of the HPA (stress) axis: regulates the cortisol response and improves resistance to physical and emotional stress.
- Neuroprotective effect: protects neurons against oxidative stress and damage related to chronic stress.
- Neuronal plasticity: promotes neuronal connections and supports the brain’s adaptation to everyday challenges.
Historical milestones
Research milestones, clinical trials and regulatory steps.
- 1970
Discovery of tuftsin
Tuftsin (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg), the natural immunomodulatory peptide from which Selank derives, is identified and named by Najjar's team.
- 1990s
Design of Selank
At Russia's Institute of Molecular Genetics, tuftsin is extended with a Pro-Gly-Pro tripeptide to yield a far more stable anxiolytic heptapeptide.
- 2000s
Russian clinical trials
Trials conducted in Russia report anxiolytic efficacy in generalized anxiety disorder, comparable to benzodiazepines but without sedation or dependence.
- 2009
Russian market launch
Selank becomes available in Russia as a prescription anxiolytic, in nasal drop form.
- 2020s
International status
Not approved by the FDA or EMA and not replicated in Western trials, it remains confined to Russia and Ukraine.
Evolution over time
A feeling of calm, reduced mental tension.
Improved mood, better stress management, and greater mental clarity.
Increased resilience, optimized concentration, and improved sleep.
Lasting emotional stability and enhanced mental performance.
Maintenance of optimal mental balance and brain protection.
Dosages & protocol
Reference dosages
8 wk + 4 off
In the morning, preferably on an empty stomach (once a day; 1 to 2 times a day for intranasal use)
Plasma half-life of a few minutes (~2-3 min); thanks to Pro-Gly-Pro stabilization, central effects (anxiolysis, BDNF) persist for several hours after dosing.
What is Selank?
SELANK (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro) is a synthetic 7-amino-acid peptide derived from tuftsin, developed for its anxiolytic and neuroprotective properties.
- Promotes a stable, balanced mental state without altering the state of consciousness.
- Non-sedating: does not cause drowsiness or cognitive impairment.
- Non-addictive: no known potential for dependence.
- Non-psychotropic: does not alter perception.
- Complements but does not replace medical follow-up when needed.
Research protocol rationale
As with any peptide, a progressive approach is described.
- Dosage described: 300 to 600 mcg per day, once daily, preferably in the morning on an empty stomach.
- Start at 300 mcg to assess individual response, then adjust based on effects.
- Routes described: subcutaneous (longer-lasting effects, 8-24 h) or intranasal (rapid action, 5-20 min).
- Cycles described: 4 to 8 weeks of use followed by 2 to 4 weeks off.
Optimizing results
The effects of Selank improve over time with an overall healthy lifestyle.
- Be consistent and patient: benefits are progressive.
- Combine sleep, nutrition, exercise, and stress management.
- Stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Keep a journal of effects to adjust the dose if needed.
Usage tips
- Be consistent and patient; effects improve over time.
- Combine with a healthy lifestyle: sleep, nutrition, exercise, stress management.
- Stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Keep a journal of effects to adjust the dose if needed.
- Consult a healthcare professional in case of doubt or a pre-existing medical condition.
- Protocols describe starting at 300 mcg per day to assess individual sensitivity.
Good to know / effects to watch
- Studies report possible fatigue or drowsiness.
- Via the intranasal route, nasal irritation may be observed.
- Mild headaches may be observed.
- Rare digestive disturbances are described.
- Generally well tolerated at the doses studied; human data remain limited.
Storage
- Before reconstitution: store the lyophilized powder refrigerated (2-8 °C) or frozen (-20 °C), protected from light and moisture.
- After reconstitution (SC or nasal spray): keep refrigerated (2-8 °C) and use within ~28 days.
- Do not freeze the reconstituted solution; protect it from light.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: avoid as a precaution (no human data).
- Combination with sedatives, anxiolytics (benzodiazepines) or alcohol: caution (risk of additive drowsiness).
- Ongoing psychiatric treatment (antidepressants, anxiolytics): seek medical advice before use.
- Possible drowsiness: caution before driving or operating machinery.
- Known hypersensitivity to the compound; not advised in children. Not FDA/EMA approved.
Possible synergistic combinations
The catalog peptides are clickable — to complete or optimize your protocol.
Classic nootropic duo: Selank soothes while Semax boosts focus (a "calm and focused" state).
View the sheet & add →Anxiety + sleep: a combination geared toward evening relaxation and nervous system recovery.
View the sheet & add →Gut-brain axis: complementary digestive support and anti-inflammatory action.
View the sheet & add →Sources & references
Links to external sources (scientific databases, trial registries, authorities). RAL Peptides is not responsible for their content.
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⚠ For research use only. NOT intended for use on humans or animals. The values shown are indicative and for informational purposes ; each person reacts differently. This guide does not replace medical advice — consult a healthcare professional if in doubt.