Supplement Scholar
Nootropic

Semax

Research compound. This is not a dietary supplement. Unless it is identified as an approved prescription drug, it is not approved by the FDA for human use. This page summarizes published research for education only; we do not sell it or link to sellers.

Semax. A Russian-developed heptapeptide derived from ACTH studied for focus, neuroprotection, and stroke recovery.

How it works. Upregulates BDNF and NGF expression, modulates dopamine and serotonin systems, and inhibits enkephalin breakdown.

What the research supports. 3 graded claims. Strongest: Sharper focus and motivation (preclinical).

Hormonal impact. Effects on Cortisol, BDNF, NGF, Dopamine.

Side effects and interactions. 2 medication interactions listed. Serious: Limited long-term safety data outside Russian literature.

Stacking. Pairs well with Selank. Avoid combining with Severe insomnia.

Common forms. Available as Intranasal spray.

Community. Experiences from people who have tried Semax. Anecdotes are not medical advice.

Semax. A Russian-developed heptapeptide derived from ACTH studied for focus, neuroprotection, and stroke recovery.

7-residue chainC37H51N9O10S · 813.9 g/mol

What it is

Semax is a synthetic analog of an ACTH(4-10) fragment with the natural hormonal effects removed, used in Russia as a nootropic and neuroprotective agent.

How it works

Upregulates BDNF and NGF expression, modulates dopamine and serotonin systems, and inhibits enkephalin breakdown.

Pathways

  • BDNF / NGF upregulation
  • Dopamine modulation
  • Enkephalin stabilization

Effects

  • ↑BDNF expression increases
  • +Focus, motivation, and recall supports
  • +Resilience to mental fatigue optimizes

What the research supports

Sharper focus and motivationpreclinical
May aid memory consolidationpreclinical
Used clinically in Russia for stroke recoverypreclinical

Strong: consistent results across large trials or meta-analyses. Moderate: several trials, mostly positive. Limited: small or mixed studies. Preclinical: animal or cell research only.

Hormonal impact

=Cortisolstabilizes
↑BDNFincreases
↑NGFincreases
~Dopaminemodulates

Side effects & interactions

Common side effects

  • Mild nasal irritation

Serious

  • Limited long-term safety data outside Russian literature

Medication interactions

Stimulantsminor

Additive activating effect possible.

MAOIsmoderate

Theoretical dopaminergic interaction.

Check any supplement–medication combination with your pharmacist before starting.

Combines with

Pairs well

  • SelankCommon pairing for focus with calm.

Avoid combining

  • Severe insomniaMay worsen sleep onset if dosed late.

Common forms

  • Intranasal spray

Discussion

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