Catalog
Synthetic ACTH(4–10) analog

Semax

Sister Russian nootropic to Selank — same evidence caveats.

Research-only / unregulatedGrade D — Plausible, unproven
Target
Putative BDNF/NGF modulation

Mechanism of action

Heptapeptide analog of ACTH(4–10) without corticotropic activity. Claimed BDNF/NGF upregulation in rodent models.

Pharmacokinetics

Intranasal.

Clinical context

Russian use in stroke recovery / cognitive complaints. No Western approval.

Safety

Contraindications
  • Pregnancy
Adverse effects
  • Largely unknown

Covered in modules

Module 13
Cognitive & Nootropic Peptides
Semax, Selank, Cerebrolysin, Dihexa, Cerebrolysin, NSI-189-style claims.
Module 15
Controversies, Pipeline & Frontier
What's in phase II/III right now — and what 2027 will probably look like.
Module 16
Khavinson 'Bioregulator' Peptides — Deep Dive
40+ years of Russian research, one institution, almost no independent replication. What clinicians actually need to know about Epitalon, Pinealon, Vesugen, Vilon, and Cortexin.

Related compounds

GIP / GLP-1 / Glucagon triple agonist
Retatrutide
Synthetic tuftsin analog (anxiolytic peptide)
Selank
Khavinson 'bioregulator' tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly)
Epitalon (Epithalon)
Khavinson tripeptide (Glu-Asp-Arg)
Pinealon

Generate prescriber-grade deep dive

Pull in expanded mechanism, PK/PD, dosing strategies for special populations, drug interactions, monitoring cadence, head-to-head differentials, prescriber pearls, and patient FAQs for Semax.

Educational reference. Not medical advice. Always verify against current FDA labeling and local regulatory guidance before prescribing or counseling.