howtosupplement
Cognition/Performance

Semax

Synthetic nootropic peptide used for cognitive support and neurorecovery, primarily studied in Russia for cerebrovascular disorders.

Semax

Semax

38
score
C
evidence
Caution
risk
Quick Take

Niche peptide with limited human evidence outside Russia; skip unless you are experimenting under medical supervision.

Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide developed in Russia as a nootropic and neuroprotective nasal spray. Derived from an adrenocorticotropic hormone fragment, it is thought to modulate brain-derived neurotrophic factor and melanocortin receptors. Russian clinical use focuses on cognitive impairment, cerebrovascular insufficiency, and recovery after stroke or brain injury. Outside Russia, high-quality randomized trials are scarce, and it lacks Western regulatory approval. It may interest biohackers and those with neurological concerns, but evidence for enhancement in healthy adults remains prelimi

Proven Benefits

01
May improve cognitive function
02
May aid stroke recovery
03
May reduce mental fatigue

Protocol

Amount
300-600 mcg
Frequency
Once or twice daily
When
Morning or early afternoon; avoid late-day dosing due to potential alertness effects.

Onset Time

Acute effects within hours; neuroprotective benefits may require days to weeks.

Who Should Consider

Biohackers exploring peptides
Post-stroke or TBI patients (Russia)
Adults with cerebrovascular insufficiency
Self-experimenters with medical supervision

How It Works

Semax appears to modulate brain-derived neurotrophic factor and its TrkB receptor, supporting neuronal survival and synaptic plasticity. It also interacts with melanocortin receptors and may influence cerebral blood flow and local immune responses in the central nervous system, though most mechanistic data derives from animal models.

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