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A synthetic heptapeptide derived from ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) that enhances cognitive function and provides neuroprotection without the hormonal effects of full-length ACTH. Approved in Russia for cognitive enhancement and neurological rehabilitation.
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide (Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro) developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences. It corresponds to the 4–10 fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) — the portion responsible for ACTH's cognitive and neurological effects, without the adrenal-stimulating properties of the full molecule.
Semax is approved in Russia as a nootropic and neuroprotective agent, used clinically for conditions including cognitive decline, stroke rehabilitation, peptic ulcers, and optic nerve disease. It is one of the few peptides to have transitioned from research to actual clinical prescription use, providing a meaningful human safety dataset.
Its primary mechanism involves substantial upregulation of BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) and its receptor TrkB — the central pathway for neuronal survival, synaptic plasticity, and memory formation. This makes semax fundamentally different from stimulants: rather than acutely increasing alertness through catecholamine release, it supports the biological substrate of cognition itself.
Semax produces significant, sustained increases in BDNF expression — the neurotrophic factor most directly linked to neuroplasticity, synaptogenesis, and long-term memory formation.
Clinical studies show improved attention span, processing speed, and executive function. Users report enhanced mental clarity and ability to sustain concentration without stimulant-like side effects.
BDNF and AMPA receptor modulation support both working memory and long-term memory consolidation — documented in both animal models and human clinical settings.
Semax demonstrates neuroprotective effects in stroke and ischemia models, reducing neuronal death and improving functional recovery — the basis for its Russian clinical approval in stroke rehabilitation.
Modulates dopamine and serotonin pathways, contributing to motivation, mood, and the reward-seeking behavior needed for sustained cognitive performance.
Unlike full-length ACTH, semax does not stimulate cortisol release — the neuroactive fragment is isolated from the adrenal-stimulating portion, making it safe for regular cognitive use.
Semax is primarily administered intranasally — the fastest, most practical route for achieving CNS effects. The intranasal pathway allows direct olfactory transport into the brain, bypassing the blood-brain barrier. Subcutaneous injection is also effective for systemic distribution.
| Route | Dose | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intranasal | 300 – 600 mcg total | 1–2x daily | Split between nostrils; morning use most common |
| Subcutaneous | 300 – 500 mcg | Daily | Slower onset; systemic distribution |
| Cycle | 14–28 days; equal break; repeat as needed | ||
| Variants | N-Acetyl Semax (NASM) and N-Acetyl Semax Amidate (NASMDA) — modified versions with longer half-life and potency differences | ||
Semax is one of the most clinically validated nootropic peptides — Russian-approved, with a published trial record across multiple indications.
Russian Ministry of Health has approved semax for: cognitive decline, stroke rehabilitation and prevention, optic nerve disease, peptic ulcer disease, and general CNS disorders. Clinical use in actual hospital settings — not just research — provides a human safety dataset that is unusual for a research peptide.
Semax produces some of the largest BDNF and TrkB receptor increases documented across small-molecule and peptide research. The effect is rapid (observable within hours of administration) and sustained across the 14-28 day cycle lengths typically studied. BDNF elevation correlates with improved synaptic density and memory consolidation endpoints in animal models.
Russian clinical trials in stroke patients showed semax improved neurological recovery scores and reduced the area of ischemic brain injury in treated vs untreated groups. The mechanism involves reduced excitotoxicity (semax modulates NMDA receptor sensitivity) and increased neurotrophic support during the critical recovery window post-ischemia.
Although derived from ACTH (the pituitary hormone that triggers cortisol release), semax uses only the 4–10 fragment — the neuroactive portion — without the adrenal-stimulating portion. Studies confirm semax does not elevate cortisol, testosterone, or other hormones regulated by full-length ACTH. This makes it safe for daily cognitive use without HPA axis disruption.
Semax and Selank form the classic Russian nootropic/anxiolytic pair — Semax drives cognitive enhancement via BDNF, Selank reduces anxiety and supports mood without sedation. Both are intranasal, both developed by the same program, complementary mechanisms.
Semax is sold for research purposes only. While approved in Russia as a nootropic medication, it is not FDA-approved. The information on this page is educational and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before considering any peptide protocol.
Third-party tested semax with Finnrick Analytics verification. Full COA on every batch. Ships within 24 hours.
Get Started TodayMedical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All protocols require evaluation and prescription by a licensed physician. You should consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new medical protocol. Individual results vary. Cinch Bio is not a pharmacy and does not dispense medications — all prescriptions are issued by independent licensed physicians and filled by licensed 503A compounding pharmacies.