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Semax: the complete guide

Semax is a synthetic peptide derived from a fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). It is studied for cognitive enhancement, neuroprotection, and stroke recovery.

Written by Peptide Protocol Editorial Medically reviewed per our review process Last reviewed
ClassSynthetic ACTH 4-10 analog / nootropic
Half-lifeShort systemically (minutes); CNS effects persist hours
Typical dose200–600 mcg intranasally, 1–3x daily
CategoryNootropic
Research useCognition, focus, neuroprotection research
FDA statusApproved as a prescription drug in Russia for stroke recovery and cognitive disorders; not FDA approved in the US.

How Semax works

Semax upregulates BDNF and NGF, modulates dopaminergic and serotonergic signaling, and shows neuroprotective effects in ischemia models.

Typical Semax dosage

Commonly reported research ranges: 200–600 mcg intranasally, 1–3x daily.

Dose should always be individualized. Factors that influence it include bodyweight, research goal, tolerance, and specific compound batch. The information below is educational, not a prescription.

How to reconstitute Semax

A widely used reconstitution for a 5 mg vial is 2 ml of bacteriostatic water. With a typical 300 mcg dose this works out to the unit count shown in the calculator below.

Open the Semax reconstitution calculator →

Pre-filled with the common 5 mg + 2 ml ratio. Adjust for your own vial.

Half-life and administration frequency

Short systemically (minutes); CNS effects persist hours.

This half-life informs how often Semax is typically dosed. Shorter half-lives usually mean more frequent dosing to maintain plasma levels; longer half-lives allow daily, weekly, or less-frequent administration depending on the compound.

Reported side effects

This list reflects effects reported in available literature or user logs. It is not exhaustive. Adverse reactions should be discussed with a qualified clinician.

Common Semax stacks

Storage and handling

Lyophilized refrigerated. Reconstituted for nasal spray: refrigerated, use within 2–4 weeks.

FDA and regulatory status

Approved as a prescription drug in Russia for stroke recovery and cognitive disorders; not FDA approved in the US.

Semax clinical trials and evidence

For clinical-trial and primary-literature context, start with the sources below. We prioritize official drug labels, ClinicalTrials.gov records, and PubMed-indexed literature when available.

Track your Semax protocol on iPhone

Peptide Protocol logs every dose, calculates reconstitution for you, and keeps your full protocol on one calm screen.

See the app →

Frequently asked questions

What is Semax?

Semax is a synthetic peptide derived from a fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). It is studied for cognitive enhancement, neuroprotection, and stroke recovery.

How does Semax work?

Semax upregulates BDNF and NGF, modulates dopaminergic and serotonergic signaling, and shows neuroprotective effects in ischemia models.

What is a typical Semax dose?

Commonly reported ranges are 200–600 mcg intranasally, 1–3x daily. This is research information, not a recommendation — dosing should be individualized under clinical guidance.

What is the half-life of Semax?

Short systemically (minutes); CNS effects persist hours. This influences how often it is administered.

How do you reconstitute Semax?

A common approach is to add 2 ml of bacteriostatic water to a 5 mg vial. Use the reconstitution calculator for exact unit counts.

What are the side effects of Semax?

Generally well tolerated; Rare mild headache; Transient nasal irritation.

Is Semax FDA approved?

Approved as a prescription drug in Russia for stroke recovery and cognitive disorders; not FDA approved in the US.

Are there clinical trials for Semax?

Registered or published clinical-trial sources for Semax are listed in the references section below. Evidence depth varies widely by compound, so check the cited trial registries and primary literature before relying on any claim.

References

  1. Semax literature (PubMed) — National Library of Medicine. Primary research on semax as a ACTH(4-10) analog and BDNF effects
  2. Gusev & Martynov — Semax in acute ischemic stroke — PubMed. Russian clinical evidence supporting stroke recovery use
  3. Semax clinical trial records — ClinicalTrials.gov. Registered studies (primarily in cerebrovascular and cognitive indications)

Sources listed above were used to verify the claims on this page. See our editorial policy for how we source information.

Educational use only. Peptide Protocol is an informational tool. Nothing on this page constitutes medical advice. Many peptides are prescription-only or restricted in your jurisdiction. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional before injecting any compound.