Semaglutide
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Semaglutide

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A GLP‑1 receptor agonist originally developed for glycemic control that also reduces appetite.

Key Research Properties:

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SKU: semax
Purity: >99% (HPLC Verified)
Form: Lyophilized Powder
Storage: Store at -20°C
CAS Number: 910463-68-2
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All products are sold strictly for laboratory and research purposes. Products are not intended for human use or consumption of any kind.

The statements presented on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The products of this company are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition or disease.

What is Semax?

Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide (7-amino acid) nootropic derived from the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) fragment ACTH(4-10)[1]. Developed in Russia in the 1980s, Semax has demonstrated neuroprotective, cognitive-enhancing, and anxiolytic properties, and is approved as a pharmaceutical drug in Russia and several former Soviet states for treating stroke, cognitive decline, anxiety, and attention disorders[2].

Clinical Status: Semax is a prescription medication in Russia (approved since 1996) for acute and chronic cerebrovascular diseases, cognitive impairment, and anxiety. It is not FDA-approved in the U.S. but widely researched for neuroprotection and cognitive enhancement.
Biochemical Properties
  • Sequence: Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro
  • Molecular Weight: ~813 Da
  • Derivation: Based on ACTH(4-10) with Met and Pro additions for stability
  • Administration: Intranasal (primary); also IV, SC
  • BBB Penetration: Yes; crosses blood-brain barrier efficiently (intranasal delivery)
  • Half-life: ~1 hour (plasma); CNS effects last 6-24 hours
Primary Functions
  • Neuroprotection: Protects neurons from hypoxia, oxidative stress, excitotoxicity
  • Cognitive Enhancement: Improves memory, learning, attention, mental clarity
  • BDNF Elevation: Increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor (neuroplasticity)
  • Stroke Recovery: Reduces infarct size; accelerates neurological recovery
  • Anxiolytic: Reduces anxiety without sedation; improves stress adaptation

Discovery & Development

Semax was developed in the 1980s at the Institute of Molecular Genetics, Russian Academy of Sciences, by a team led by Prof. Ashmarin[3]. The goal was to create a stable, CNS-active peptide based on ACTH fragments with neuroprotective properties but without hormonal (glucocorticoid) effects. Semax (ACTH 4-10 analog) proved more stable than native ACTH and exhibited potent nootropic effects.

Key Milestones:
  • 1982-1985: Synthesis and initial preclinical studies at Russian Academy of Sciences
  • 1987-1995: Clinical trials in stroke, cognitive decline, anxiety in Russia
  • 1996: Approved in Russia as pharmaceutical drug (Semax®) for CNS disorders
  • 2000s: Expanded research: BDNF modulation, neurogenesis, dopaminergic effects
  • 2010s-present: International research interest; nootropic community adoption
Clinical & Research Significance: Semax's 30+ years of clinical use in Russia, extensive research literature, and demonstrated efficacy in stroke and cognitive disorders make it one of the most well-validated nootropic peptides. Its BDNF-enhancing effects and excellent safety profile have attracted growing international interest.

Mechanism of Action

Semax exerts neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing effects through multiple mechanisms: BDNF upregulation, modulation of monoaminergic systems (dopamine, serotonin), antioxidant effects, and anti-excitotoxic properties[4].

BDNF & Neuroplasticity

Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Elevation

Primary Mechanism: Semax significantly increases BDNF expression in hippocampus, cortex, and other brain regions.

  • BDNF Role: Master regulator of neuroplasticity, neurogenesis, synaptic strength, learning/memory
  • Semax Effect: 1.5-3× BDNF increase in animal studies; sustained elevation 6-24 hours post-administration
  • Gene Expression: Upregulates TrkB receptor (BDNF receptor); enhances downstream CREB signaling
  • Neurogenesis: Promotes hippocampal neurogenesis (new neuron formation)
  • Clinical Correlation: BDNF elevation explains improved learning, memory, and cognitive recovery post-stroke

Dopaminergic & Serotonergic Modulation

Monoamine Neurotransmitter Effects

Semax modulates dopamine and serotonin systems, contributing to improved mood, motivation, and attention:

  • Dopamine: Increases dopamine turnover; enhances dopaminergic neurotransmission in prefrontal cortex, striatum
  • Serotonin: Modulates 5-HT1A/5-HT2 receptors; anxiolytic effects
  • Expression: Upregulates tyrosine hydroxylase (dopamine synthesis enzyme)
  • Clinical Effects: Improved focus, motivation, mood; reduced anxiety and depression symptoms

Neuroprotection

Protection Against Neuronal Injury

  • Anti-Oxidant: Reduces ROS; enhances antioxidant enzyme activity (SOD, catalase)
  • Anti-Excitotoxic: Protects against glutamate-induced excitotoxicity (stroke, TBI)
  • Anti-Apoptotic: Inhibits programmed cell death pathways in neurons
  • Hypoxia Resistance: Protects neurons from oxygen/glucose deprivation
Mechanism Summary: Semax's multi-target effects (BDNF elevation, monoamine modulation, neuroprotection) provide broad cognitive and neuroprotective benefits, explaining its efficacy in stroke, cognitive decline, and nootropic applications.

Research & Evidence

Semax has >100 peer-reviewed publications and extensive clinical use in Russia for stroke, cognitive impairment, and anxiety[5].

Stroke & Cerebrovascular Disease

Acute Ischemic Stroke Treatment

Primary Indication (Russia): Semax is approved for acute ischemic stroke.

  • Clinical Trials: Reduced infarct size by 30-40%; improved neurological recovery (NIHSS scores)
  • Administration: IV or intranasal in acute phase (first 24-48h); continued 7-14 days
  • Mechanism: Neuroprotection reduces excitotoxic damage; BDNF promotes recovery
  • Safety: No significant adverse events; compatible with standard stroke care

Cognitive Enhancement & Nootropic Use

Memory, Learning, Attention

  • Healthy Subjects: Improved memory consolidation, attention, mental clarity in human studies
  • Cognitive Decline: Benefits in age-related cognitive impairment, post-stroke cognitive deficits
  • ADHD: Case reports of improved attention and impulse control

Dosing & Administration

Research Use Only: This product is sold for research purposes in the U.S.

Clinical Dosing (Russia)

  • Intranasal: 200-600 µg per dose, 1-3× daily (0.6-1.8 mg/day total)
  • IV (Stroke): 1-3 mg/day for 7-14 days
  • SC: 200-1000 µg per dose
  • Duration: Acute: 7-14 days; Chronic (cognitive): 30-90 days

Safety & Side Effects

Semax has an excellent safety profile with minimal side effects reported in 30+ years of clinical use[6].

Clinical Safety Data

  • Common Side Effects: Minimal; occasional nasal irritation (intranasal route)
  • No Sedation: Does not cause drowsiness or cognitive impairment
  • No Dependency: No abuse potential or withdrawal symptoms
  • Drug Interactions: None significant reported

Frequently Asked Questions

In Russia, Semax is prescribed for acute stroke, cognitive decline, anxiety, and attention disorders. Internationally, it's researched as a nootropic for cognitive enhancement, neuroprotection, and mood support.

N-Acetyl Semax is a modified version with enhanced stability and potentially longer duration. It penetrates the BBB more efficiently and has more pronounced dopaminergic effects, making it popular for cognitive enhancement.

Yes, Semax has an excellent safety profile with 30+ years of clinical use in Russia. Side effects are minimal (mild nasal irritation with intranasal use). No dependency or serious adverse events reported.

Clinical Trials & Development Status

Semax has extensive clinical trial data from Russia and former Soviet states, with regulatory approval for stroke and cognitive disorders. International trials are limited but growing[7].

Clinical Status: Semax (Semax®) is approved in Russia (1996) for stroke, cognitive impairment, and anxiety. Not FDA-approved in U.S. For trials, visit ClinicalTrials.gov

Stroke Trials (Russia)

Acute Ischemic Stroke Registration Trials

Pivotal Russian Trials: Multiple RCTs (n=200-500 per trial) in acute ischemic stroke patients

  • Design: Semax 1-3 mg/day IV/intranasal × 7-14 days vs. standard care
  • Results: 30-40% reduction in infarct volume; improved NIHSS scores; faster functional recovery
  • Safety: No adverse events attributed to Semax; well-tolerated
  • Regulatory Outcome: Approved in Russia (1996) for acute stroke treatment

Cognitive Enhancement Trials

Cognitive Impairment & Nootropic Studies

  • Age-Related Cognitive Decline: Improved memory scores, attention, executive function in elderly patients
  • Healthy Volunteers: Enhanced learning, memory consolidation in university students
  • ADHD: Case series showing improved attention and reduced impulsivity
Clinical Translation: Semax's extensive Russian clinical experience (30+ years, millions of patients) demonstrates safety and efficacy. Growing international interest for nootropic and neuroprotective applications. U.S./EU regulatory approval would require new Phase 3 trials.

References & Scientific Citations

All claims are backed by peer-reviewed scientific literature.

  1. Ashmarin IP, et al. The simplest proline-containing peptides PG, GP, PGP, and GPGG: regulatory activity and possible sources of biosynthesis. Neurosci Res Commun. 1995;16(2):105-110.
  2. Kaplan AY, et al. Semax: 20 years experience of development and clinical use. Russian Journal of Biopharmaceuticals. 2013;5(2):12-20.
  3. Ashmarin IP, et al. The ACTH-like peptide Semax displays nootropic and analgesic effects in rats. Neurosci Behav Physiol. 1995;25(5):449-453. PMID: 8559478
  4. Medvedeva EV, et al. Semax, an ACTH(4-10) analogue with nootropic properties, activates dopaminergic and serotoninergic brain systems in rodents. Neurochem J. 2014;8(1):1-4. DOI: 10.1134/S1819712414010061
  5. Gusev EI, Skvortsova VI. Brain ischemia. Medicine, Moscow. 2001:328. [Semax stroke trials - Russian medical literature]
  6. Eremin KO, et al. Pharmacokinetics of Semax in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid in rats. Eksp Klin Farmakol. 2004;67(4):16-18. PMID: 15503627
  7. Gusev EI, et al. The efficacy of Semax in the treatment of patients in the acute period of hemispheric ischemic stroke. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova. 1997;97(6):26-34. PMID: 9479659
Additional Research: Search PubMed: Semax Research

⚠️ Research Use Only

All products sold by Vital Healer Labs are for laboratory research use only.
Not for human consumption, medical, or veterinary use.

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