Semax Overview
Mechanism of Action
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide analog of the ACTH(4-10) fragment with an added Pro-Gly-Pro sequence for metabolic stability. It enhances BDNF and NGF expression, promotes cerebral blood flow, and modulates dopaminergic and serotoninergic neurotransmission. Semax does not affect adrenal cortex function despite its ACTH origin, making it a pure nootropic without hormonal side effects.
~30 minutes (neurotropic effects persist hours)
Timing
Morning preferred; can split AM and early afternoon
Injection Site
Subcutaneous or intranasal
Food
No restrictions
Common Stacks
- Selank — Anxiolytic complement for cognitive + mood support
- NAD+ — Cellular energy + neuroprotection
Semax Dosing Protocol
Standard Protocol
2–4 weeks200–600 mcg daily
Subcutaneous or intranasal. Cycle 3 weeks on, 1 week off.
Cognitive Enhancement
3 weeks300–600 mcg 1–2x/day
Split AM/PM dosing for sustained nootropic effect.
Semax Expected Timeline
Day 1–3
Improved focus and mental clarity
Week 1–2
Enhanced memory recall; faster cognitive processing
Week 2–4
Sustained cognitive improvement; neuroprotective benefits
Semax Side Effects
Mild irritability at high doses (rare)
Very well tolerated overall
Semax Research Studies
Semax, an ACTH(4-10) analogue with cognitive-enhancing properties
Ashmarin IP, Nezavibatko VN, Levitskaya NG, et al. — J Clin Basic Pharmacol (1997)
Demonstrated semax significantly improved attention, memory, and cognitive processing speed in both healthy volunteers and patients with cognitive impairment.
PubMed: 16676894Neuroprotective effect of semax in conditions of global cerebral ischemia
Levitskaya NG, Sebentsova EA, Andreeva LA, et al. — Bull Exp Biol Med (2004)
Showed semax provided significant neuroprotection against ischemic brain damage, reducing infarct volume and improving neurological outcomes.
PubMed: 15452598Semax FAQ
Does semax affect cortisol or adrenal function?
No. Despite being derived from ACTH, semax lacks the steroidogenic activity of full-length ACTH. It does not stimulate cortisol production or affect adrenal function. Its effects are purely neurotropic.
Can semax and selank be used together?
Yes. They work through different mechanisms — semax primarily enhances BDNF/NGF and dopaminergic function for cognitive performance, while selank modulates serotonin and Tuftsin pathways for anxiolytic effects. Many practitioners combine them for comprehensive cognitive and mood support.