Educational only. A summary of published research, not medical advice or a recommendation. No doses are listed.
Quick take
A synthetic peptide derived from a fragment of ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone).
- Class
- Other research peptides
- Status
- Not approved
- Evidence
- Early or small human studies
- Half-life
- Not well documented
Mechanism fingerprint
What it acts on, and how. Each chip links to that pathway on the map.
Studied for effects on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and recovery after stroke.
What makes it different
Derived from a fragment of ACTH; studied for BDNF and recovery after stroke.
Compare side by side
Mechanism & pathways
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Studied link
BDNF
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor, a protein that supports the growth and connections of nerve cells.
Evidence overview
Early or small human studies
Clinical studies are mostly small and published in Russia.
A breakdown into human, animal and cell studies hasn't been added for this compound yet.
Why it's used
Used for focus and memory, and in Russia for recovery after stroke.
Side effects & risks
Reported side effects
- Not well characterized outside Russian studies
Risks and warnings
- Not evaluated by US or EU regulators
- Products sold as “research use only” are not quality-controlled medicines; purity, sterility and labeled amount are not verified.
FAQ
Short answers taken from this profile.
What is Semax?
A synthetic peptide derived from a fragment of ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone).
How does Semax work?
Studied for effects on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and recovery after stroke.
What receptors or pathways does Semax act on?
BDNF (studied link). Links marked “studied” or “proposed” come from early research and aren't confirmed in people.
How is Semax different from similar compounds?
Derived from a fragment of ACTH; studied for BDNF and recovery after stroke.
Is Semax approved?
Registered in Russia (nasal drops) for stroke and other neurological conditions; not approved in the US or EU.
What has Semax been studied for?
Used for focus and memory, and in Russia for recovery after stroke.
How strong is the evidence?
Early or small human studies. Clinical studies are mostly small and published in Russia.
What are the main risks?
Not evaluated by US or EU regulators. Products sold as “research use only” are not quality-controlled medicines; purity, sterility and labeled amount are not verified.