Semax

ACTH(4-7) Pro-Gly-Pro Analog

Half-life: ~minutes (rapid enzymatic degradation; intranasal use)

ACTH 4-7 PGPСемакс

Research Profile

Research Depth

Potency

Half-Life Score

Selectivity

Stability

Relative research assessments — educational reference only.

Target Receptors

MC4RBDNF/TrkB pathwayNGF/TrkA pathway

Critical Research Warning

Approved medication in Russia; investigational in most countries. May transiently elevate blood pressure at high doses.

PeptidePlaza Entry #014

"A synthetic analog of a fragment of ACTH that lacks hormonal activity but retains potent neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing properties. Widely used in Russian clinical settings for stroke, memory, and attention disorders."

Full Description

Semax (Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro) is a synthetic heptapeptide analog of the 4-7 fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) with a Pro-Gly-Pro extension for stability. Unlike ACTH, it has no adrenocortical activity. It is approved in Russia for treatment of stroke, TBI, and cognitive disorders. Research demonstrates potent upregulation of BDNF and NGF, activation of serotonin and dopamine systems, neuroprotection against ischemic damage, and enhancement of attention and working memory. It also exhibits anti-inflammatory effects in the CNS.

Mechanism of Action

Rapidly increases BDNF and NGF synthesis. Activates melanocortin receptors (MC4R) without cortisol axis effects. Modulates dopaminergic and serotonergic transmission. Anti-inflammatory via inhibition of NF-κB and IL-1β.

Reported Benefits

• Upregulates BDNF and NGF for neuroprotection
• Cognitive enhancement and improved stroke recovery
• Anti-inflammatory effects in the central nervous system

Potential Side Effects

• Nasal irritation with intranasal delivery
• Mild agitation or restlessness at high doses
• Headache reported in some clinical studies

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Semax differ from other cognitive enhancers?▼

Semax uniquely combines neuroprotection (via BDNF/NGF upregulation) with cognitive enhancement (via dopamine/serotonin modulation) — simultaneously protecting neurons while improving function. It is approved as a medication in Russia for stroke recovery and cognitive disorders.

What is the regulatory status of Semax?▼

Semax is approved as a medication in Russia and several CIS countries for treatment of stroke, TBI, and cognitive disorders. It is available as a 0.1% intranasal solution. It is not FDA-approved and is considered investigational in Western countries.

For Research Reference Only

Not medical advice. Peptides may be regulated or restricted in your jurisdiction.

References

1.The Potential of the Peptide Drug Semax and Its Derivative for Correcting Pathological Impairments in the Animal Model of Alzheimer's Disease. PubMed (2025). Radchenko AI, et al.. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41479572/ ↑
2.The Effect of Peptide Semax, an ACTH(4-10) Analogue, on Intracellular Calcium Dynamics in Rat Brain Neurons. PubMed (2025). Kolbaev SN, et al.. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41171324/ ↑
3.Semax peptide targets the μ opioid receptor gene Oprm1 to promote deubiquitination and functional recovery after spinal cord injury in female mice. PubMed (2025). Liu R, et al.. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40692165/ ↑
4.Genes That Associated with Action of ACTH-like Peptides with Neuroprotective Potential in Rat Brain Regions with Different Degrees of Ischemic Damage. PubMed (2025). Filippenkov IB, et al.. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40650034/ ↑

Where to Source Semax

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