Semax
ACTH (4-10)
Semax is a powerful nootropic peptide, a synthetic derivative of ACTH (4-10), that acts on the brain to enhance cognitive function, mental resilience, and intellectual performance. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and modulates several neuromodulatory systems (dopamine, serotonin, endorphins), stimulates BDNF, and supports neuroprotection. It can be used subcutaneously (systemic absorption, more potent and longer-lasting effects) or intranasally (direct absorption to the brain, rapid effects).
Chemical identity
- Sequence
- Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro (MEHFPGP)
- Molecular formula
- C37H51N9O10S
- Molecular weight
- 813.9 g/mol
- CAS no.
- 80714-61-0
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
Concentration
Enhances focus and sustained attention.
Memory
Supports memory and information retention.
Neuroprotection
Protects neurons and supports long-term brain health.
Mental clarity
Promotes clear, fast, and efficient thinking.
Stress resistance
Improves mental resilience and helps manage stress.
Cognitive performance
Optimizes cognitive abilities for better everyday results.
Mechanism of action
- Neurochemical regulation: increases the release of dopamine and serotonin to improve mood, motivation, and mental clarity.
- BDNF stimulation: increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor, essential for neuron growth and plasticity.
- Improved cerebral blood flow: optimizes brain oxygenation and blood circulation.
- Neuronal plasticity: promotes neuronal growth and synaptic communication.
- Stress resilience and protection: helps the brain better withstand stress, anxiety, and mental fatigue.
- Crosses the blood-brain barrier and acts directly on several neuromodulatory systems.
Historical milestones
Research milestones, clinical trials and regulatory steps.
- 1982
Initial synthesis in Moscow
The peptide is synthesized at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences as a stabilized analog of the ACTH(4-10) fragment, without hormonal effect.
- 1980s
Neuropeptide design
Teams led by Nikolai Myasoedov and Isaak Ashmarin add a Pro-Gly-Pro extension to resist peptidases and cross the blood-brain barrier.
- 1994
Registration in Russia
Semax is approved as a drug by the Russian Ministry of Health, notably for ischemic stroke and cognitive disorders.
- 2011
Essential medicines list
Semax is added to Russia's List of Vital and Essential Drugs approved by the government on 7 December 2011.
- 2020s
Status outside Russia
Still not approved by the FDA or EMA, it remains in clinical use in Russia and the CIS and is sold elsewhere as a research compound.
Evolution over time
Onset of action via the subcutaneous route; effects lasting 8 to 24 hours, strong and stable.
Onset of action via the intranasal route; effects lasting 2 to 6 hours, shorter but rapid.
Effects on cognition and stress resilience are generally felt.
Key to optimal, lasting results: clarity, memory, and performance that improve over time.
Dosages & protocol
Reference dosages
8 wk + 2 off
Preferably in the morning (SC once daily); intranasal 1 to 3 times per day as needed
Plasma half-life of a few minutes; the Pro-Gly-Pro extension slows its degradation and central effects persist for several hours (8-24 h SC, 2-6 h intranasal).
Titration protocol
Stay on one step and let natural accumulation work. Progress slowly.
What is Semax?
- Nootropic peptide: a synthetic derivative of ACTH (4-10), developed to support brain function and cognitive performance.
- Neurological action: crosses the blood-brain barrier and acts on several neuromodulatory systems.
- Neurochemical support: modulates the release of dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins (mood, motivation, clarity).
- Neuroprotection: helps protect neurons against oxidative stress and damage.
- Cognitive enhancement: supports memory, learning, concentration, and processing speed.
Populations and areas studied
- Students and learners: memory, concentration, and learning abilities.
- Professionals and entrepreneurs: productivity, decision-making, and mental clarity.
- Athletes and biohackers: focus, motivation, and mental resilience.
- Seniors and longevity: brain health and maintenance of cognitive function.
- Travel & jet lag: reduction of jet-lag-related fatigue.
Research protocol rationale
- Start at 300 mcg to assess sensitivity, then adjust based on the effects felt.
- Subcutaneous: 300 to 600 mcg, once daily, preferably in the morning.
- Intranasal: 300 to 600 mcg per dose, 1 to 3 times per day as needed.
- SC: strong, long-lasting effects (8 to 24 h); intranasal: rapid but shorter effects (2 to 6 h).
- Regular use and smart cycling (on/off periods) to maximize effectiveness.
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.
- Protocols describe starting at 300 mcg to assess individual sensitivity.
- The information provided does not replace medical advice; consult a professional if in doubt.
Good to know / effects to watch
- Via the intranasal route (the most common use), studies report possible nasal irritation or dryness.
- Mild headaches may occur.
- Rare changes in blood pressure or transient irritability are described.
- Local reactions at the injection site (redness, discomfort) when the subcutaneous route is used.
- 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).
- Severe unstable psychiatric conditions: caution (dopamine/serotonin modulation), medical advice required.
- History of seizures or epilepsy: caution.
- Combination with psychotropic or dopaminergic drugs: seek medical advice.
- Known hypersensitivity to the compound; not advised in children. Not FDA/EMA approved.
Possible synergistic combinations
Essential to maximize the effects of Semax.
Boosts BDNF and brain health.
Nourishes the brain and neurotransmitters.
Meditation, breathing exercises, heart coherence.
Reading, learning, new challenges.
A hydrated brain is a high-performing brain.
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.