Cognitive EnhancementStrong Evidence

Semax Peptide Therapy

Benefits, Side Effects, Cost & Protocols

Semax peptide molecular structure diagram from PubChem

Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide nootropic developed by the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences. It is used in Eastern Europe for brain trauma treatment and for its claimed neuroprotective, nootropic, and neurorestorative effects.

ByChris Riley(CFA)&Alex Evans, PharmD, MBA(PharmD, MBA)|Updated May 19, 2026

Clinically Reviewed

Reviewed by Alex Evans, PharmD, MBA · Updated May 2026

Evidence-Based

Sourced from FDA, PubMed & ClinicalTrials.gov · View sources

FDA Status

Banned from Compounding March 2024 Not eligible for compounding. Synthetic ACTH fragment not approved for human use in the US.

Evidence

Strong Evidence

Who Is Semax Best For?

Cognitive enhancementNeuroprotectionMemory improvementFocusPhase 4

How Semax Works

ACTH (4-10) analog that may enhance BDNF levels and modulate neurotransmitter systems without hormonal effects.

Semax FAQ

What is SEMAX?

Semax is a synthetic peptide based on ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) fragment, developed in Russia and extensively researched for cognitive enhancement and neuroprotection.

How does SEMAX work?

ACTH (4-10) analog that may enhance BDNF levels and modulate neurotransmitter systems without hormonal effects.

Is SEMAX legal to buy?

SEMAX is sold as a research chemical for laboratory use only. It is not approved for human use by the FDA. Regulations vary by jurisdiction.

Where can I buy SEMAX?

SEMAX is available as a research compound from verified online vendors. Always verify third-party testing before purchasing.

What category does SEMAX belong to?

SEMAX is primarily classified as a cognitive enhancement peptide. Nootropic peptides researched for cognitive function, memory, focus, neuroprotection, and neurogenesis.

What are the research benefits of SEMAX?

SEMAX has been studied for: Cognitive enhancement, Neuroprotection, Memory improvement, Focus. ACTH analog; established nootropic peptide.

Key Studies

228 total on PubMed0

[Results of the application of complex physiotherapeutic neurostimulation in optical neuropathies of various genesis]

Dragon AK, Korchazhkina NB, Sheludchenko VM et al

Vopr Kurortol Fizioter Lech Fiz Kult · Vopr Kurortol Fizioter Lech Fiz KultRCT

Complex neurostimulation with Semax achieved 83-94% efficacy in improving visual field and light sensitivity in vascular optic neuropathy.

Complex neurostimulation with Semax achieved 83-94% efficacy in improving visual field and light sensitivity in vascular optic neuropathy

Functional Connectomic Approach to Studying Selank and Semax Effects

Panikratova YR, Lebedeva IS, Sokolov OY et al

Dokl Biol Sci · Dokl Biol SciRCT

Selank and Semax produce distinct functional connectivity changes in amygdala and prefrontal regions

Effects of Semax on the Default Mode Network of the Brain

Lebedeva IS, Panikratova YR, Sokolov OY et al

Bull Exp Biol Med · Bull Exp Biol MedRCT

Semax increased default mode network volume in medial frontal cortex compared to placebo on fMRI

Sigmoidal maximal effect modeling of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentration and annual incidence of coronary heart disease events in secondary prevention trials

Pharmacotherapy

Semax Compound Data

Molecular Formula

C37H51N9O10S

Molecular Weight

813.9 g/mol

IUPAC Name

(2S)-1-[2-[[(2S)-1-[(2S)-2-[[(2S)-2-[[(2S)-2-[[(2S)-2-amino-4-methylsulfanyl-butanoyl]amino]-4-carboxy-butanoyl]amino]-3-(1H-imidazol-5-yl)propanoyl]amino]-3-phenyl-propanoyl]pyrrolidine-2-carbonyl]amino]acetyl]pyrrolidine-2-carboxylic acid

View full compound on PubChem

Semax News

Semax: Molecular Signaling, Neurotrophic Modulation, and Expanding Research Horizons - The Indian Panorama

The Indian Panorama · 18 days ago

BPS Publications - British Pharmacological Society | Journals

British Pharmacological Society | Journals · 10 months ago

People Aren’t Just Injecting Peptides—They’re Snorting Them, Too - vogue.com

vogue.com · 4 months ago

Injectable peptide therapy went mainstream in 2025, priming consumers for the next big wellness wave - glossy.co

glossy.co · 4 months ago

Decoding the peptide craze: UAE experts explain the risky injectable wellness trend and what science says - Gulf News

Gulf News · 7 days ago

News aggregated via Google News. Inclusion does not imply endorsement.

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Peptide therapies have not been evaluated by the FDA for most listed indications.All prices shown are estimates based on publicly available data and may not reflect current pricing — providers and brands set their own prices and can change them at any time. Always verify pricing directly with the provider before purchasing. Consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting any peptide protocol.

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