Last Updated February 9, 2024

 February 9, 2024

Looking for an appropriate Semax dosage for the next experiment? 

Peptide researchers interested in cognitive enhancement and neuroprotection might be curious about Semax, a compound originally developed in the Soviet Union. 

Semax is clinically used in Russia and Ukraine as a treatment of several conditions related to cranial or cerebral injuries, as well as recovery from the neurotoxic effects of alcohol. 

Researchers are now exploring an array of more general Semax benefits, including: 

  • Improved attention & short-term memory 
  • Neuroprotection 
  • General nootropic effects 

Below we discuss what researchers should know about Semax, and include a Semax dosage calculator and sample research protocol.

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Semax Dosage Chart | Quick Breakdown

Formulation Semax Nasal Spray Dosage Aliquot Semax Dosage
Daily Dosage Initiate at 600mcg-900mcg (2-3 pumps a day) and titrate up as needed Initiate at 500mcg (once daily) and titrate up to 1,000mcg (once or twice daily)
Cycle Duration Up to 30 days Up to 30 days
Washout Period Equal to the cycle duration Equal to the cycle duration
Alternative dosage regimens Up to 60 days at 600mcg/daily Up to 60 days at 500mcg/daily

What is Semax?

Research on Semax first began in the Soviet Union to explore its ability to protect and enhance the recovery of cerebral functions after stroke and head injury, as well as in the context of neurodegenerative processes like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Huntington’s chorea [1].

Semax is a neuroactive peptide that affects the central nervous system and is known to possess neurotrophic, neuroregulatory, and neuroprotective properties. It belongs to the melanocortin family of compounds, which includes adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-, β-, and γ-MSH). Melanocortins affect functions of the cardiovascular system, pain sensitivity, food-related and sexual behavior, and also posseses anti-inflammatory effects.

This neuropeptide was first synthesized from a short fragment of ACTH, Pro8-Gly9-Pro10 ACTH(4-10). It is composed of seven amino-acid residues and is a synthetic analog of ACTH 4–10. It was discovered through the process of dissociation of the amino acids and utilizing substitution and special linkages [1].

Clinically, Semax is typically administered to patients suffering from ischemic insults but studies have shown that this peptide also displays nootropic-like activity in humans, such as optimizing attention span and short-term memory [2].


semax dosage calculator


Semax Benefits

Semax has been shown to provide neuroprotective properties, and can strengthen the immune system and act as an antidepressant.

Semax can alleviate ischemic brain disease

Semax has been proven to accelerate the regression of neurological symptoms and significantly increase the number of patients with good recovery. Administering Semax in tandem with ADP and collagen has been shown to help in reducing the symptoms of ischemic insults with Ca2+ mobilizing the effects of ADP. Research indicates that the positive effects of Semax in chronic ischemic brain disease are caused not only by its neurotrophic effects but also by its antiplatelet properties [3].

Semax as a complex treatment of alcohol delirium

A study conducted on 30 patients with alcohol delirium reported that those treated with Semax experienced a decrease in asthenic disorders, autonomic and neurologic disturbances, and improvement of cognitive functions. As a result of its antihypoxic effects, Semax has been recommended for the treatment of alcohol delirium, leading to an overall improvement of cognitive functions, and prevention of encephalopathy development in chronic alcoholics [4].

Semax can play a role in the elimination of bacteria and pathogens

Neutrophil is a white blood cell that plays an important role in the inflammatory process and protects the body against hostile cells. When the body is attacked by bacteria or pathogens, these neutrophils produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) that work to kill said bacteria or pathogens. This process is known as respiratory burst. One study has found that Semax, when administered alongside PMA, can play a role in the activation of the respiratory burst of neutrophils [5].

Semax can be used to accelerate healing of peptic ulcers

Clinical studies have shown that Semax can accelerate ulcer healing. One study conducted on ulcer patients discovered that when administered in tandem with basic ulcer therapy, ulcers healed faster in 89.5% of patients who took Semax compared with those who took just the basic treatment [6].


Semax Side Effects

Researchers have conducted numerous preclinical and clinical studies on Semax with no major side effects reported.

  • One safety and efficacy study involving 36 glaucoma patients found no adverse effects after Semax was administered over a 1-month period [7].
  • Another study involved testing resting state fMRI in 14 volunteers on three occasions: directly before intranasal 1% Semax administration, and five and 20 minutes thereafter. No adverse side effects were reported [8].
  • Notably, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BNDF) stimulators like Semax may contribute to hair loss in individuals prone to baldness. Studies have shown a link between the impact of BDNF levels on hair cycle control [9].

Semax Dosage Calculator and Guide

A Semax dose is typically administered via a nasal spray or subcutaneously.

In this section, we draw on the literature to date to discuss how Semax formulations may be administered and how frequently.

Semax Nasal Spray Dosing Protocol

Researchers have hypothesized that Semax travels through extraneuronal transport due to the speed at which its effects are seen after intranasal administration. According to one study, the effects of Semax are noticeable 15-30 minutes after administration. It was observed that the neuropeptide travels via the extraneuronal pathway through the olfactory epithelium to reach areas of the brain associated with memory and learning processes, but not pain sensitivity [10].

In Russia, two distinct formulations of intranasal Semax have received official approval: a 0.1% solution and a 1% solution. Each has its unique set of indications and dosage guidelines [11].

Per the official guidelines for the 0.1% Semax Nasal Drops, the peptide can be utilized as follows [12]:

  • Combating mental exhaustion: A daily dosage of 400–900mcg, divided into 2-3 doses, for a duration of 3-5 days.
  • Mild cognitive issues in children and teenagers aged 7-18: A dose of 200–400mcg, split into two daily doses, for 30-days.
  • Optic nerve ailments: A daily dosage of 600–900mcg, divided into 2-3 doses, for a span of 7–10 days.
  • Memory-related cognitive deficits (due to cerebrovascular damage, dyscirculatory encephalopathy, etc.): A dosage of 200–2000mcg (3–30mcg/kg) per application, to be used four times daily for 10-14 days. This amounts to a total daily dosage of 800–8000mcg (7–70mcg/kg).

The 0.1% intranasal Semax formulation has been administered daily for a maximum of 30-day cycles according to research in glaucoma subjects [7].

For the 1% Semax Nasal Drops, the recommended usage is as follows [13]:

  • Mild-moderate stroke: A dosage of 2000mcg-3000mcg, taken 3-4 times daily at 3–4-hour intervals, for 10 days. This results in a total daily dosage of 6000mcg-12000mcg.
  • Severe stroke: A dosage of 3000mcg-4000mcg, taken 4-6 times daily at intervals of 2.5–3 hours, for a maximum of 10 days. The cumulative daily dosage is 12000mcg-20000mcg.

Most studies on mild-moderate stroke patients (a total of 6000mcg/daily) have utilized 1% Semax nasal spray cycling which involves 10 active days followed by a 20-day washout period and then another 10 active days [14].

For research, Semax is available as a 0.3% intranasal spray (30mg/10ml) which delivers 300mcg of the peptide per pump. Considering the aforementioned guidelines, here is a sample dosing protocols for intranasal Semax to use in experimental settings:

  • Daily Dosage: Consider starting with 600mcg/daily (2 pumps) and titrating the dose depending on the subject’s individual response.
  • Study Duration: Up to 30 days at doses higher than 900mcg/daily (3 pumps a day). Researchers may also consider experimenting with 600mcg/day for slightly longer periods but no longer than 60 days.
  • Semax Cycle: Ensure a rest period immediately following the experiment that is equivalent to the study duration.
  • Notes: A standard 30mg/10ml Semax nasal spray delivers 300mcg of Semax per pump and it is sufficient for a month when dosed at 3 pumps/day. Monitor subject's neurological, psychological, and physical status and EEG signs. Semax spray must be refrigerated at all times.

Injectable Semax Dosage Protocol

Currently, there are no official dosing guidelines or studies that explore the appropriate dosage of injectable Semax in clinical environments. Additionally, it may be challenging to derive subcutaneous Semax dosages based on intranasal Semax data.

For reference purposes, here is a sample Semax dosage protocol that researchers may administer to subjects to observe the effects of cognitive enhancement [15]:

  • Daily Dosage: 500mcg-1mg of Semax, subcutaneously, depending on subject’s responsiveness.
  • Study Duration: Four to eight weeks; one 30mg vial of Semax provides for 30x 1mg doses or 60x 500mcg doses.
  • N-Acetyl Semax Cycle: Ensure a rest period immediately following the study, equivalent to the study duration.
  • Notes: Monitor subject's neurological, psychological, and physical status and EEG signs. Semax must be refrigerated once reconstituted.

semax dosage calculator


Semax for Cognitive, Mood, and Memory Enhancement

While Semax has various applications in treating a number of conditions, an emerging number of nonhuman and human studies now show that an appropriate Semax protocol can provide increased levels of mental clarity, focus, and improved memory function.

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a key role in regulating the emotional state and cognitive functions of humans and animals, as well as stimulating neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity throughout the brain. Data has shown that Semax administration improves learning in animals and increases BDNF expression and expression of its high-affinity TrkB receptors in the rat hippocampus. In addition, when a proper Semax dosage is administered safely, it increases resistance to hypoxia and improvements in circulation to the brain in experimental animals and humans [1, 16, 17].

Various studies have shown that a proper Semax dosage improves memory and attention, and has antihypoxic and neuroprotective effects. Acute administration of Semax can play a role in regulating emotional states: one laboratory animal study has found Semax effective in stimulating the activity of dopamine and serotonin in the brain—hormones known for their antidepressant properties. In addition, chronic Semax administration has an anxiolytic effect under normal conditions and can alleviate damage caused by oxidative stress [16, 18, 19].

Further research has also shown that Semax stimulates cerebral blood circulation [20].


Where to Buy Semax Online? | 2024 Edition

Various online vendors include Semax among their lineup of peptides for sale.

But finding legitimate Semax that is high in purity, priced fairly, and can be shipped securely within a reasonable timeframe can be challenging.

Researchers who are looking to explore the applications of this neuropeptide may be curious about where to buy Semax online.

Here are our top two picks:

Limitless Life

Researchers opting for Semax nasal spray should head over to Limitless Life. They also provide a range of other high-quality peptides at wallet-friendly prices.

Here are some of the perks and benefits of buying from this vendor:

  • Third-Party Laboratory Testing: Limitless Life nasal sprays are easy to administer and come backed by a Certificate of Analysis from a reputable third-party laboratory.
  • Convenient Payments: The vendor accepts a range of convenient payment methods, including bank transfer, credit cards, cryptocurrencies, and Cash App.
  • Fast Shipping: Researchers won’t need to wait long to receive their orders, as shipments are usually shipped the next day and arrive to U.S. destinations within 2-3 business days.
  • Professional Service: Limitless Life’s friendly team is available by email and phone to address any questions or concerns.

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PureRawz

Our team also trusts PureRawz with research peptides like injectable Semax.

They sell 99% pure Semax to researchers worldwide and have excellent standing within the industry. Here is what we love about them:

  • Thorough Purity Testing: PureRawz Semax is thoroughly examined both in-house and by a reputable third-party laboratory to ensure its research-grade standard.
  • Vast Product Selection: PureRawz is known for having among the most comprehensive product selections online, with peptides available for applications like cognitive health, weight loss, and healing.
  • Great Service: This vendor’s professional care team is always ready and willing to help customers through their questions by phone, live chat, or email.

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Bacteriostatic Water for Semax

To correctly prepare and store peptides, researchers need bacteriostatic water, among several other essentials.

The prospect of trying to assemble this list of items may sound challenging and time-consuming. It actually is.

Fortunately, the Peptides.org team has a solution for research supply demands. To spare researchers the inconvenience of searching online for multiple sources, we have found an outstanding retailer.


Semax Dosing | Verdict

Extensive studies and clinical data have shown that Semax produces a number of beneficial effects in both animals and human subjects.

It has been shown to enhance cognitive function, improve mood, stimulate cerebral blood circulation, and provide relief and healing from cranial injuries. Further, it has been shown to be generally well-tolerated and safe when dosed appropriately, as discussed in this Semax dosage guide.

For high-quality Semax nasal spray, visit our friends at Limitless Life.


References

  1. Dolotov, O.V., Karpenko, E.A., Seredenina, T.S., Inozemtseva, .L.S., Levitskaya, N.G., Zolotarev, Y.A., Kamensky, A.A., Grivennikov, I.A., Engele, J. and Myasoedov, N.F. (2006), Semax, an analogue of adrenocorticotropin (4–10), binds specifically and increases levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor protein in rat basal forebrain. Journal of Neurochemistry, 97: 82-86. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1471-4159.2006.03658.x
  2. Kaplan, Alexander & Kochetova, Arina & Nezavibathko, V. & Rjasina, T. & Ashmarin, I.. (1996). Synthetic ACTH analog Semax displays nootropic‐like activity in humans. Neuroscience Research Communications – NEUROSCI RES COMMUN. 19. 115-123. 10.1002/(SICI)1520-6769(199609)19:23.0.CO;2-B.
  3. K. Cherkasova, P.6.013 Step forward in research of chronic ischemic brain disease during Semax therapy, European Neuropsychopharmacology, Volume 13, Supplement 4,2003, Page S432, ISSN 0924-977X, https://doi.org/10.1016/S0924-977X(03)92312-1. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0924977X03923121)
  4. N.V. Strelets, S.Y. Utkin, P.6.020 Use of the neurometabolic drug “Semax” for complex treatment of alcohol delirium, European Neuropsychopharmacology, Volume 15, Supplement 2, 2005, Page S275, ISSN 0924-977X, https://doi.org/10.1016/S0924-977X(05)80532-2. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0924977X05805322)
  5. Astashkin EI, Petrov EA, Bespalova Y, Glezer MG, Grivennikov IA, Grachev SV. Effects of Semax, a peptide ACTH4-10 analogue, on the respiratory burst in human neutrophils. Dokl Biol Sci. 2001 May-Jun;378:280-2. doi: 10.1023/a:1019239413480. PMID: 12918351.
  6. Ivanikov IO, Brekhova ME, Samonina GE, Myasoedov NF, Ashmarin IP. Therapy of peptic ulcer with semax peptide. Bull Exp Biol Med. 2002 Jul;134(1):73-4. doi: 10.1023/a:1020621124776. PMID: 12459874.
  7. Strakhov, V. V., Popova, A. A., & Fedorov, V. N. (2014). The results of Semax neuroprotective efficacy investigation. Ophthalmology Journal, 7(4), 43-51. doi: 10.17816/OV2014443-51
  8. Lebedeva, Irina & Panikratova, Yana R. & Sokolov, Oleg & Kupriyanov, Dmitry & Rumshiskaya, A. & Kost, Natalya & Myasoedov, N.. (2018). Effects of Semax on the Default Mode Network of the Brain. Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine. 165. 10.1007/s10517-018-4234-3.
  9. Panchaprateep R, Korkij W, Asawanonda P. Brain-derived nerve factor and neurotrophins in androgenetic alopecia. Br J Dermatol. 2011 Nov;165(5):997-1002. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.2011.10514.x. Epub 2011 Sep 29. PMID: 21729031.
  10. D.M, Manchenko & N.Yu, Glazova & Levitskaya, Natalia & L.A, Andreeva & KamenskiiA.A, & N.F, Myasoedov. (2012). The Nootropic and Analgesic Effects of Semax Given via Different Routes. Neuroscience and Behavioral Physiology. 42. 264-270. 10.1007/s11055-012-9562-6.
  11. P.5.021 semax treatment effects in patients with postradiation brain lesion. European Neuropsychopharmacology. Retrieved August 3, 2022, from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0924977X05811861
  12. Asmarin IP, Nezavibat'ko VN, Miasoedov NF, et al. Nootropnyĭ analog adrenokortikotropina 4-10-semaks (15-letniĭ opyt razrabotki i izucheniia) [A nootropic adrenocorticotropin analog 4-10-semax (l5 years experience in its design and study)]. Zh Vyssh Nerv Deiat Im I P Pavlova. 1997;47(2):420-430.
  13. Vasil'eva EV, Salimov RM, Kovalev GI. Eksp Klin Farmakol. 2012;75(7):3-7.
  14. Glazova, Nataliya & Sebentsova, E. & Manchenko, D. & Andreeva, L. & Dergunova, L. & Levitskaya, Natalia & Limborska, Svetlana & Myasoedov, N.. (2018). The Protective Effect of Semax in a Model of Stress-Induced Impairment of Memory and Behavior in White Rats. Biology Bulletin. 45. 394-399. 10.1134/S1062359018040040.
  15. Pae, C. (2008). Therapeutic Possibility of “Semax” for Depression. CNS Spectrums, 13(1), 20-21. doi:10.1017/S1092852900016102
  16. Filippenkov IB, Stavchansky VV, Denisova AE, Yuzhakov VV, Sevan’kaeva LE, Sudarkina OY, Dmitrieva VG, Gubsky LV, Myasoedov NF, Limborska SA, Dergunova LV. Novel Insights into the Protective Properties of ACTH(4-7)PGP (Semax) Peptide at the Transcriptome Level Following Cerebral Ischaemia–Reperfusion in Rats. Genes. 2020; 11(6):681. https://doi.org/10.3390/genes11060681

Scientifically Fact Checked by:

David Warmflash, M.D.

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