Machine-assisted translation — the German original version is authoritative.
Cognition & Neuro
Semax
ACTH(4-7)-Analogon · Heptapeptid
Semax is a heptapeptide developed in Russia, derived from a segment of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) but without its hormonal activity. It is being researched for neuroprotection and cognition. In the EU and the USA it is not approved as a medicine.
Regulatory status
Not approved for humans
Not approved in the EU/USA — registered as a medicine in Russia.
Drug class
Neuropeptide (ACTH(4-7) analogue, without hormonal action)
Half-life (informative)
Short; formulated intranasally to reach the blood-brain barrier.
Studied in the literature
In studies investigated intranasally (as a nasal spray). No EU/US approval.
Mechanism of action
In models, Semax increases the expression of neurotrophic factors such as BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) and NGF (Nerve Growth Factor), especially in the hippocampus. Neuroprotective effects (including under oxygen deprivation) and a modulation of the dopaminergic and serotonergic system are described, which is associated with neuroplasticity.
The intranasal administration is described with the aim of delivering the peptide into the central nervous system.
Research history
Developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics in Russia. There, Semax is registered for certain neurological indications (including in the context of ischemic events). A large part of the published data comes from Russian research; independent approvals in the EU/USA are lacking.
Regulatory status by region
Not an approved medicine; no established regulated use.
Registered there for certain neurological indications — not equivalent to an EU/US approval.
Research areas
- Ischemic stroke / neuroprotection (predominantly Russian research)
- Cognition, attention, stress resistance
- BDNF/NGF regulation (preclinical)
Documented effects (from the literature)
- Predominantly described as well tolerated in the available research.
- Effects on neurotrophic factors primarily in preclinical/Russian studies.
Safety concerns & caution
- Independent, high-quality efficacy and safety data outside Russia are limited.
- Long-term effects not comprehensively investigated.
Risks of gray-market purchase
- Sold online as a "research" nasal spray; purity/concentration unassured.
- Marketing as a "nootropic" is not proof of efficacy.
Frequently asked questions
Is Semax an approved medication?
In Russia it is registered for certain indications. In the EU and the USA it is not approved as a medicine.
Does Semax make you "smarter"?
The research describes effects on neurotrophic factors and neuroprotection, predominantly preclinical. This does not provide robust proof of cognitive enhancement in healthy humans.
Sources
Primary and reference sources for your own reading.
Related substances
Unfamiliar terms? Look them up in the glossary or read the fundamentals.
This profile is for information and education only. It is not medical advice and deliberately contains no dosing or usage details. Decisions about use belong in a doctor’s hands.