How does semax work?

Semax is a synthetic ACTH 4-10 analogue. This site's profile says it increases BDNF and NGF expression and modulates melanocortin and dopaminergic systems. Half-life is short, on the order of minutes; it is used intranasally. Molecular weight is 813.9 daltons. The one human citation on that page is a 110-person unblinded Russian post-stroke series: Semax courses raised plasma BDNF and were associated with faster Barthel index improvement. That is not a blinded placebo-controlled trial. It is approved in Russia and Ukraine and not FDA approved. In July 2026 the Pharmacy Compounding Advisory Committee voted to recommend it for compounding against FDA scientists' advice; the vote is advisory. Animal citations on that page report that a single 50 microgram per kilogram dose raised hippocampal BDNF protein 1.4-fold in rats. Those animal findings do not transfer into a counted Western cognitive trial. This FAQ does not invent a dose. Full record at /compounds/semax.

Educational use only. This database summarizes published research and is not medical advice. Where a dose appears it is a record of what a trial or clinic ran, or what people describe doing, with its source attached. Nothing here is a recommendation for personal use.

Part of cognitive and mood peptides. Selank, semax, cerebrolysin, and other nootropic and CNS peptides.