🧠 Neuropeptide / Cognitive

Semax (10 mg Vial) Dosage Protocol

Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from the ACTH(4-10) sequence (Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro). Developed in Russia and used clinically in Russia and Ukraine for stroke recovery, cognitive enhancement, and neuroprotection. It is studied for BDNF upregulation, neuroprotection, and cognitive enhancement through non-classical mechanisms.

⚡ Quickstart Highlights

Reconstitution

3.0 mL BAC water → 3.33 mg/mL (intranasal) or dilute further

Daily Range

300–900 mcg intranasally

Route

Intranasal (primary) or sub-Q

Half-life

~5–7 minutes; CNS effects last hours

Dosing & Reconstitution Guide

Route: Intranasal (preferred for CNS effects) or subcutaneous | Frequency: 1–2× daily

Phase	Daily Dose	Drops (intranasal)	Notes
Starting	300 mcg/day	~2 drops per nostril	Assess tolerance; AM dosing
Standard	600 mcg/day	~4 drops per nostril	Split AM and midday
Advanced	900 mcg/day	~6 drops per nostril	Short cycles; assess carefully

Intranasal delivery bypasses the blood-brain barrier via the olfactory pathway, achieving CNS concentrations far exceeding subcutaneous injection for the same dose. Commercial intranasal Semax in Russia uses 0.1% solution (1 mg/mL). For research preparation, reconstitute to your target concentration and apply via a metered nasal spray or dropper.

Reconstitution Steps

Draw 3.0 mL bacteriostatic water into a sterile syringe.
Inject slowly down the inside glass wall of the vial; avoid foaming.
Gently swirl until dissolved. Do not shake.
Label with reconstitution date. Refrigerate at 2–8°C; use within 28 days.

Supplies Planning

Item	4-Week Cycle	8-Week Cycle
Semax vials (10 mg)	1 vial	2 vials
Intranasal dropper/spray	1	1–2
Bacteriostatic water (10 mL)	1 × 10 mL	1 × 10 mL

Mechanism of Action

Semax is a fragment analog of ACTH(4-10) — a naturally occurring peptide region of adrenocorticotropic hormone that has cognitive effects independent of the adrenal axis. The Pro-Gly-Pro C-terminal extension in semax was added to improve stability against enzymatic degradation, extending its activity compared to the natural ACTH fragment.

Key mechanisms under study: BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) upregulation — semax increases BDNF expression in the hippocampus and frontal cortex in animal models; VEGF upregulation supporting neurovascular repair after ischemia; dopamine receptor sensitivity modulation; and anti-inflammatory effects in neuroinflammation models. In Russian clinical contexts, it is approved for stroke rehabilitation and neurocognitive deficits, with a long clinical use record.

Research Findings & Safety Profile

Approved drug in Russia and Ukraine for ischemic stroke recovery, cognitive impairment, and optic nerve pathology.
Upregulates BDNF and VEGF in hippocampus and frontal cortex in animal models — neurotrophin support mechanism.
Intranasal delivery provides superior CNS access compared to systemic injection for this peptide.
Cognitive enhancement effects reported in human studies: improved memory consolidation, attention, focus.
Excellent safety profile in approved clinical use spanning 20+ years in Russia.
Possible effects: mild stimulant-like effects (avoid evening dosing), occasional mild headache, transient nasal irritation.

Storage

State	Temperature	Duration	Notes
Lyophilized	−20°C (−4°F)	Up to 24 months	Dry, dark conditions
Reconstituted	2–8°C (35–46°F)	Up to 28 days	Avoid freeze-thaw; protect from light

⚠ Research Use Only: Semax has long clinical approval history in Russia; not FDA approved. Intranasal route is essential for CNS effects. Avoid evening dosing due to stimulant-like properties.

References

Levitskaya NG et al. 'Biological activity of Semax, an analog of ACTH(4-10)' — Izv Akad Nauk, 2004

Grivennikov IA et al. 'Semax promotes BDNF expression in rats' — Biochemistry Moscow, 2008

Dolotov OV et al. 'Semax, an analog of ACTH(4-7), increases brain BDNF levels' — Ann NY Acad Sci, 2006 View source ↗