Semax

Overview

Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from ACTH(4-10). It is registered as a drug in Russia (1994) for acute ischemic stroke, asthenic states, and optic nerve disease; it is not FDA-approved.

Mechanism of Action

Semax upregulates BDNF and NGF expression and activates the BDNF/TrkB pathway in the hippocampus, cortex, and basal forebrain. It retains melanocortin-receptor activity from its ACTH(4-10) core but lacks the steroidogenic C-terminus, so it does not stimulate cortisol release. Additional reported mechanisms include inhibition of enkephalin-degrading enzymes and modulation of dopaminergic and serotonergic tone.

Research Summary

Registered in Russia (1994) as intranasal drops in 0.1% (cognitive/asthenic indications) and 1% (acute ischemic stroke and optic nerve disease) formulations. Russian clinical trials (Gusev, Skvortsova and colleagues) reported improved neurological recovery when started early in acute ischemic stroke. Primary evidence base is Russian-language literature; no Western regulatory approvals and no pivotal Western trials exist.

Dosing Information

Reported Side Effects

• Nasal irritation (intranasal)
• Mild headache
• Transient blood pressure elevation (anecdotal)
• Limited long-term safety data outside Russian clinical use

Labs to monitor before & during your Semax protocol

These biomarkers are commonly tracked to assess response and safety. Run baseline labs before starting, mid-cycle labs halfway through, and post-cycle labs 1–2 weeks after the final dose.

Commonly Stacked With

Research References

• Dolotov OV, et al. Semax, an analog of ACTH(4-10) with cognitive effects, regulates BDNF and trkB expression in the rat hippocampus. Brain Res. 2006;1117(1):54-60. (PMID 16996037)
• Dolotov OV, et al. Semax, an analogue of adrenocorticotropin (4-10), binds specifically and increases levels of BDNF protein in rat basal forebrain. J Neurochem. 2006. (PMID 16635254)
• Medvedeva EV, et al. The peptide semax affects the expression of genes related to the immune and vascular systems in rat brain focal ischemia: genome-wide transcriptional analysis. BMC Genomics. 2014;15:228. (PMID 24661604)
• Gusev EI, et al. Effectiveness of semax in acute period of hemispheric ischemic stroke. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova. 1997. (PMID 11517472)