Educational information only. Not medical advice. Talk to a qualified healthcare professional before using any compound. Disclaimer

Cognitive & Brain

Semax

Also known as ACTH(4-10) analog, N-Acetyl Semax, NA-Semax-Amidate

Limited human evidencePrescription in some countries

Price range: €25 through €46

Discussed for: Focus, memory, stroke recovery.

FIG. 2 ยท Amino-acid sequence of Semax (7 residues)
  1. M
  2. E
  3. H
  4. F
  5. P
  6. G
  7. P
  • Hydrophobic
  • Polar
  • Positive charge
  • Negative charge
  • Glycine / proline
Effect strengthHow hard it acts on the body4/10
Proof levelHow well that is shown in humans4/10
Risk levelHow much can go wrong3/10

Editorial 1 to 10 estimates from published research, not measured values. How to read these

Save to wishlist
Save to wishlist

01 / Identity

What it is

Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide. Main reported uses: focus, memory, stroke recovery. Current status: prescription in Russia; FDA compounding concern (2023).

Molecule type
Synthetic heptapeptide
How it is taken
Nasal spray
Other names
ACTH(4-10) analog, N-Acetyl Semax, NA-Semax-Amidate

Route only. This library does not publish doses or protocols.

02 / Mechanism

How it is thought to work

Raises BDNF (brain growth factor) and affects dopamine/serotonin

Mechanisms seen in cells or animals do not always happen the same way in people.

03 / Potential benefits

What people use it for

Focus, memory, stroke recovery

Limited human evidence

Small or low-quality human data. Most of what is claimed comes from animals, cells or anecdotes.

Listed uses are what people use it for, not proven outcomes.

04 / Known risks

Side effects and risks

Irritation in nose, anxiety, hair shedding reported

Risk level 3 of 10

Lower risk score: reported side effects are mostly mild. Low risk is not no risk, especially for unregulated products.

Unknown long-term effects count as a risk, not as a clean record.

05 / Regulatory

Regulatory status

Status
Prescription in some countries
Details
Prescription in Russia; FDA compounding concern (2023)
Sport (WADA)
Not listed

Status reflects information up to mid-2026 and changes over time. Check current sources.

06 / Evidence quality

How good is the evidence?

Limited to moderate: mostly Russian studies

How we grade evidence

07 / Notes and sources

Notes and sources

  • In 2023 the FDA placed it on its list of bulk substances with significant safety concerns for compounding.
  • Anyone using compounds like this regularly should have medical supervision and bloodwork (for example IGF-1, glucose and HbA1c, hormones, lipids).
  • Source: Peptide Reference Table, an editorial review of published research up to mid-2026. Scores are 1 to 10 editorial estimates, not measured values. Regulatory and WADA status change over time.

Educational information only. Not medical advice. Talk to a qualified healthcare professional before using any compound.