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Semax (Synthetic ACTH 4-10 Analog)
Also known as: ACTH 4-10-Pro-Gly-Pro, N-Acetyl Semax, N-Acetyl Semax Amidate
Confidence
Updated 2026-03-18
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide analog of ACTH(4-10) developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics in Russia. It is approved in Russia and several CIS countries as a nootropic and neuroprotective agent for stroke recovery, cognitive enhancement, and optic nerve disease. Unlike full-length ACTH, it has no corticosteroid-stimulating activity.
Class
Nootropic / Neuroprotective Peptide
Routes
Intranasal, Subcutaneous
Half-Life
~3–5 minutes (IV); intranasal delivery provides ~4–6 hours functional CNS activity
Semax activates melanocortin receptors (MC3R/MC4R) without adrenal stimulation. It increases BDNF and NGF expression (neurotrophin upregulation), modulates serotonergic and dopaminergic systems, enhances attention and memory consolidation, exerts anti-inflammatory effects in CNS tissue, and promotes neuronal survival under ischemic conditions. The Pro-Gly-Pro C-terminal extension enhances stability and adds anti-inflammatory glyproline activity.
Half-Life
~3–5 minutes (IV); intranasal delivery provides ~4–6 hours functional CNS activity
Bioavailability
Intranasal: ~60–70% (per Russian PK data)
Approved (Russia): Ischemic stroke recovery (0.1% solution), cognitive disorders, peptic ulcer disease (nasal), optic nerve atrophy (1% solution). Research: neuroprotection, ADHD, TBI recovery, cognitive enhancement.
Supported by Russian regulatory-grade clinical trials. Studies demonstrate improved cognitive function post-stroke, enhanced attention and memory in healthy volunteers, and neuroprotective effects in optic nerve disease. Published primarily in Russian and Eastern European journals. A few Western publications confirm BDNF upregulation and neuroprotective mechanisms. No Western RCTs.
Human Studies
20
Animal Studies
80
Reported as well-tolerated. No hormonal effects (no cortisol stimulation despite ACTH fragment origin). Mild nasal irritation. No reported dependency or withdrawal. Very limited Western safety data.
Approved in Russia since mid-1990s with expanded indications. Not FDA-approved. Recognized in Russian clinical guidelines for stroke rehabilitation. Available internationally as a research peptide.
Drug Interactions: Theoretical interactions with melanocortin-active drugs. May complement stroke rehabilitation protocols. Monitoring: Cognitive assessment scales, BDNF levels (research), neurological exam. Research Gaps: No Western RCTs. Mechanism of neurotrophin upregulation not fully elucidated. Optimal dosing for various conditions not established outside Russian protocols.
Intranasal
Common Range
200–1800 mcg/day (0.1% solution: 2–3 drops per nostril)
Timing
Morning and early afternoon
Frequency
2–3 times daily
Cycling
Russian protocols: 10–14 day courses for acute use; up to 30 days for chronic conditions
Important Note
NOT FDA-approved. Approved in Russia. N-Acetyl Semax and N-Acetyl Semax Amidate are modified versions with enhanced potency/stability available from research suppliers.
Connect with a verified provider offering Semax therapy near you.
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Nootropic / Cognitive Enhancer
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Neuroprotective Peptide Complex
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Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or modifying any peptide therapy. PeptideSupplierMatch does not prescribe, sell, or distribute peptides.
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