Semax

Semax is a short peptide based on amino acids 4 to 10 of ACTH, with a modification that makes it more stable. Unlike full-length ACTH, Semax has no hormonal (adrenal) effect; research focuses on its effects in the brain.

Mechanism of action under investigation

Research has linked Semax to neurotrophic factors, in particular BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) and NGF (nerve growth factor). These proteins play a role in the growth and maintenance of nerve cells. It is also being studied in relation to memory, concentration and neuroprotection.

This description relates to the mechanism of action as studied in research and does not constitute evidence of efficacy in humans.

A distinctive feature of Semax is that, whilst it is derived from a hormone fragment, it is studied in research precisely because it lacks the hormonal activity of full-length ACTH. This makes it possible to investigate its effects on the brain without the adrenal-related effects. Furthermore, its small, well-defined structure makes it highly reproducible in the laboratory. This combination of a clear structure and a broad field of research explains the continuing interest in Semax.

Semax was developed in Russia and has been studied there for some time within the field of neuroscience. It is a commonly used model molecule in research into nootropic peptides.

• Research focus: modulation of neurotrophic factors (BDNF, NGF).
• Research focus: memory, attention and cognitive processes (preclinical).
• Research focus: neuroprotection under stressful conditions.

Status and context

Semax is registered in Russia as a nootropic, but is not authorised as a medicinal product in the European Union or the United States. It is available here solely as research material, for laboratory and research purposes. When conducting research, always document the purity and batch number to ensure that experiments remain reproducible.

As Semax has been studied in Russia for decades, there is an extensive, though partly regional, body of research literature available. For a meticulous researcher, this means that results must be critically evaluated and, where possible, cross-referenced with independent sources. The basis for this is a pure starting material, documented on a batch-by-batch basis. This ensures that the distinction between regional registration and ‘research-only’ status remains clear.

Semax is supplied as a lyophilised powder and reconstituted in the laboratory using bacteriostatic water. The steps below describe only the laboratory procedures for research purposes.

1. 1Allow the vial and the bacteriostatic water to reach room temperature.
2. 2Wipe the rubber stoppers of both vials with an alcohol wipe.
3. 3Allow the bacteriostatic water to run slowly down the side of the vial; do not direct it straight onto the powder.
4. 4Gently swirl the vial until everything has dissolved; do not shake.
5. 5Store the solution in the fridge and label it with the date and batch number.

You can find supplies such as bacteriostatic water, insulin syringes and alcohol wipes under ‘Lab & Accessories’. This is a laboratory instruction and does not constitute dosage advice for consumption.

Combining approaches in research

In cognitive research, Semax is sometimes studied alongside the anxiolytic Selank. Document each peptide separately, specifying its purity and batch number, so that observations remain traceable.

Prepare only the amount you need in the short term and store the rest in the fridge straight away; make a note of the preparation date for each experiment. Work quickly to minimise the breakdown of the peptide.

Store Semax in its lyophilised (powder) form in a cool, dark place to ensure maximum stability.

Practical storage tips

• Powder form: freezer (-20 °C) for long-term storage; fridge (2–8 °C) for short-term storage.
• After reconstitution: store refrigerated (2–8 °C) and use within a few weeks.
• Avoid direct light, heat and repeated temperature changes.
• Write the reconstitution date and batch number on the vial.

Consistent, cold and dark storage ensures reliable, reproducible measurement results.

Consistent, cold and dark storage ensures reliable, reproducible measurement results.