A to Z / Cognitive

Semax

Also known as ACTH(4-10) analogue, Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro.

Best known for The leading nootropic peptide

Evidence★★☆☆☆

Safety dataPoorly characterised

Route nasal · injectable

United StatesNot approved

AustraliaNot listed by name; unapproved therapeutic good

as at 16 September 2026

What it is

Semax is a seven-amino-acid peptide derived from ACTH, designed to remove the hormonal activity while keeping its effects on the brain. It was developed in Russia in the 1980s and is a registered medicine there, used for stroke, cognitive disorders and optic nerve conditions.

In Western markets it is not approved, and it is widely discussed as a nootropic.

What the full entry covers

The book carries the rest of this entry:

Where the research stands, with every claim cited
What people commonly ask, and what the research shows so far
Dosing in four labelled bands, described and not recommended
Side effects, serious risks, cautions and interactions
Questions to discuss with your doctor
How it compares with Selank, N-Acetyl Semax Amidate, Cerebrolysin, Noopept

Related entries

SelankAnxiety relief without sedation · Evidence ★★☆☆☆
N-Acetyl Semax AmidateA modified Semax, not yet independently studied · Evidence ★☆☆☆☆
CerebrolysinThe brain peptide mixture used clinically outside the West · Evidence ★★★☆☆
NoopeptThe widely used Russian nootropic, a dipeptide derivative · Evidence ★★☆☆☆

A certificate of analysis tells you what is in a vial. The evidence rating above tells you whether the compound has been shown to work in humans. Neither answers the other's question. How to read a certificate of analysis.

This page describes what is known and not known about Semax. It is not medical advice and not a recommendation to use it.