COGNITIVE · PEPTIDE
What is Semax?
Medically reviewed by the G1 Peptides clinical team · Updated October 1, 2026
THE SHORT ANSWER
Semax is a synthetic peptide of seven amino acids, developed in Russia from a fragment of the hormone ACTH. It is studied for attention, memory and recovery after stroke, and has no hormonal activity of its own.
Semax at a glance
- Type
- Peptide
- Also known as
- ACTH(4-7)PGP
- Mechanism
- ACTH(4–10) analog; BDNF up-regulation
- Status
- Approved outside US
- Half-life
- Minutes
- Route
- Subcutaneous or intranasal
- Dosing range in the literature
- 200–600 mcg per dose
- Onset
- Within hours
- Storage
- Refrigerated (2–8 °C); use within the pharmacy beyond-use date
How Semax works
It raises levels of BDNF and related growth factors in the brain, which support the survival and connection of nerve cells, and it affects dopamine and serotonin signalling.
What Semax is studied for
- Focus & attention
- Cognitive performance
- Neuroprotection
It is used clinically in Russia, where studies report benefits in stroke recovery and cognitive function. Large independent trials elsewhere are lacking.
Being studied for something is not proof that it works. Results in individuals vary.
Semax dosing
Published protocols describe 200–600 mcg per dose, 1–2× daily, earlier in the day, given subcutaneous or intranasal. Onset is typically reported at within hours.
These figures are context from the literature, not instructions. A licensed provider sets the dose and schedule for each patient.
Semax side effects and risks
- Mild stimulation
- Irritability
- Injection-site reactions
Tell your provider about every medication and condition before starting, and report anything unexpected. See peptide side effects and safety and who should not use peptides.
Is Semax FDA approved?
Approved in Russia as a nasal preparation. Not FDA-approved.
Approval and trial status change. This page was last reviewed on October 1, 2026.
Semax at G1 Peptides
G1 Peptides supplies Semax as vials (30 mg) and in pens (Zen X, Mega Mind). Prescription products ship only after a licensed provider has reviewed the order.
Semax questions
- What is Semax?
- Semax is a synthetic peptide of seven amino acids, developed in Russia from a fragment of the hormone ACTH. It is studied for attention, memory and recovery after stroke, and has no hormonal activity of its own.
- What is Semax used for?
- Semax is studied for focus & attention, cognitive performance, and neuroprotection. It is used clinically in Russia, where studies report benefits in stroke recovery and cognitive function. Large independent trials elsewhere are lacking.
- How does Semax work?
- It raises levels of BDNF and related growth factors in the brain, which support the survival and connection of nerve cells, and it affects dopamine and serotonin signalling.
- Is Semax FDA approved?
- Approved in Russia as a nasal preparation. Not FDA-approved.
- What is the typical Semax dosage?
- Published protocols describe 200–600 mcg per dose, given subcutaneous or intranasal. This is context from the literature, not a recommendation: a licensed provider sets the dose.
- What are the side effects of Semax?
- Risks noted for Semax include mild stimulation, irritability, and injection-site reactions. Tell your provider about your medications and conditions before starting.
- What is the half-life of Semax?
- The reported half-life is minutes. Onset is typically reported at within hours.
- How should Semax be stored?
- Refrigerated (2–8 °C); use within the pharmacy beyond-use date.
For educational purposes only, and not medical advice. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Nothing on this page is intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Use any compound only under the guidance of a licensed provider.