Semax
Semax (ACTH 4-10 Analog with Pro-Gly-Pro)
The neuroprotective peptide
A synthetic heptapeptide derived from ACTH (4-10) with a C-terminal Pro-Gly-Pro tripeptide extension for stability. Developed in Russia and approved there for stroke recovery and cognitive enhancement. Semax upregulates BDNF, modulates the melanocortin system, and supports neuroplasticity without stimulant-like side effects.
- Route
- Intranasal
- Typical dose
- 200–600 mcg/day
- Availability
- Research-only
Key Benefits
BDNF upregulation supporting neuroplasticity and memory
Improved attention, focus, and cognitive processing speed
Neuroprotective effects during ischemic or oxidative stress
Anxiolytic properties without sedation or cognitive blunting
Stroke recovery support (approved indication in Russia)
Mechanism of Action
How Semax works
Semax enhances brain function through neurotrophic and melanocortin pathways:
- BDNF upregulation — increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, the key growth factor for neuroplasticity, memory consolidation, and neuronal survival
- Melanocortin system modulation — activates MC3/MC4 receptors in the brain, influencing attention, learning, and stress response without the adrenal effects of full-length ACTH
- NGF and TrkB signaling — increases nerve growth factor and activates TrkB receptors, supporting axonal growth and synaptic strengthening
- Neuroprotective anti-oxidant effects — reduces lipid peroxidation and oxidative damage in neural tissue, protecting neurons during ischemia and excitotoxicity
Your Genetics & Semax
Genetic variants that affect your response
These SNPs determine how effectively Semax works for you specifically. A genetic peptide report identifies your variants before you start.
The Val66Met polymorphism reduces activity-dependent BDNF secretion by ~25%. Met carriers have lower baseline neuroplasticity — Semax's BDNF upregulation may be proportionally more impactful, compensating for this genetic deficit in neurotrophic support.
COMT Val158Met determines prefrontal cortex dopamine levels. Val/Val (warrior) clears dopamine fast — may benefit more from Semax's dopaminergic modulation. Met/Met (worrier) has high baseline dopamine — cognitive effects may manifest differently, favoring focus over motivation.
NTRK2 encodes the TrkB receptor that BDNF binds to activate neuroplasticity cascades. Variants affecting TrkB receptor density or signaling efficiency determine how effectively Semax's BDNF upregulation translates into actual synaptic strengthening.
MC4R variants affect melanocortin receptor sensitivity in the brain. Since Semax activates MC3/MC4 receptors for its cognitive and attentional effects, receptor variants may modulate the magnitude of these benefits.
Which variants do you carry?
Upload your DNA data or order a kit to find out.
Evidence & Research
40+
Published studies
Animal studies and in vitro data with promising but limited clinical validation
Sourcing & access
Where to buy Semax
Semax is sold as a research compound, not a licensed medicine, so quality and legal status vary widely by country and vendor. If you're sourcing it, treat independent purity testing as non-negotiable.
- Insist on a recent third-party Certificate of Analysis (COA) for the exact batch — labs like Janoshik verify purity and identity.
- Check the legal status where you live before ordering — it differs from country to country.
- Reconstitute correctly with bacteriostatic water and start at a conservative dose.
Swiss Chems is a US research-chemical supplier that publishes third-party Certificates of Analysis. Sold for research use only — check your local laws.
Before you buy: see whether your DNA actually responds to Semax, and at what dose. Analyze my DNA — $99 →
Educational information only, not medical advice. Some outbound links are affiliate links (disclosed, at no extra cost to you). Most peptides are not FDA-approved — consult a qualified professional and check your local laws before purchasing.
Common Stacks
Semax is commonly combined with:
Selank
Cognitive Balance StackEmerging EvidenceSelank (Tuftsin Analog with Pro-Gly-Pro)
A synthetic heptapeptide derived from the immunopeptide tuftsin, with a Pro-Gly-Pro extension for enzymatic stability. Developed alongside Semax at the Russian Academy of Sciences. Selank modulates GABA-ergic and serotonergic systems to reduce anxiety without sedation, while providing mild cognitive enhancement and immune modulation.
4
Gene variants
30+
Studies
Semax
Nootropic StackEmerging EvidenceSemax (ACTH 4-10 Analog with Pro-Gly-Pro)
A synthetic heptapeptide derived from ACTH (4-10) with a C-terminal Pro-Gly-Pro tripeptide extension for stability. Developed in Russia and approved there for stroke recovery and cognitive enhancement. Semax upregulates BDNF, modulates the melanocortin system, and supports neuroplasticity without stimulant-like side effects.
4
Gene variants
40+
Studies
GHK-Cu
Neuroprotective StackModerate EvidenceGlycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine Copper Complex
A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide that declines with age. GHK-Cu resets gene expression toward a younger pattern, stimulates collagen synthesis, activates antioxidant defenses, and promotes tissue remodeling across skin, bone, and connective tissue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Semax used for?
Semax is used for cognitive enhancement, neuroprotection, and stroke recovery. It upregulates BDNF (the brain's growth factor), improves attention and memory, and protects neurons from oxidative damage. In Russia, it is an approved pharmaceutical for stroke and cognitive disorders. Elsewhere, it is used as a research peptide for nootropic purposes.
Does BDNF Val66Met affect Semax response?
Yes, significantly. The BDNF Val66Met (rs6265) polymorphism reduces activity-dependent BDNF secretion. Met carriers — about 30% of Europeans and 50% of East Asians — have lower baseline neuroplasticity. Semax's BDNF-boosting effect may be proportionally more valuable for these individuals, making genetic testing particularly relevant.
How does Semax differ from Selank?
Semax is derived from ACTH and primarily works through BDNF upregulation and melanocortin activation — it's more activating and pro-cognitive. Selank is derived from tuftsin and primarily modulates GABA and serotonin — it's more calming and anxiolytic. They are commonly stacked together for balanced cognitive enhancement with mood support.
Learn More About Semax
Your next move
Two ways forward with Semax.
Not sure it's for you?
Will Semax work for your genes — and at what dose?
Your report scores Semax against your receptor, CYP and pathway variants — likely responder, non-responder, and a sensible starting dose — in minutes.
Analyze my DNA — $99Already decided?
Get Semax from Swiss Chems.
A US research-chemical supplier with third-party Certificates of Analysis. Sold for research use only — check your local laws before ordering.
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