Semax – 10mg

Semax, a synthetic peptide developed in the 1980s by Russian researchers, is authorized in Russia and Ukraine for various indications, including ischemic brain stroke, encephalopathy, optic nerve atrophy, and cognitive disorders like dementia. Its potential benefits extend to neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and stroke.

This peptide, an analog of the ACTH(4-10) peptide derived from adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), is composed of seven amino acids, including a fragment from ACTH (4-7) and a Pro-Gly-Pro fragment. This structure enables Semax to cross the blood-brain barrier, reaching significant concentrations in the central nervous system where it may enhance neuroprotection and cognitive performance. Additionally, modifications like acetylation and amidation lead to the formation of N-Acetyl Semax Amidate, potentially enhancing its stability.

It stimulates neurotrophic factors like Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) and Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) in the central nervous system. It also affects serotonin, dopamine, and enkephalin signaling, which could influence mood, stress, cognition, and reward-related behavior. Research indicates that Semax may upregulate both BDNF levels and the corresponding tropomyosin-related kinase B (trkB) receptors in brain cells, vital for cell survival and neuroplasticity.

Despite its promising potential, Semax’s clinical studies are limited, and it lacks FDA review or approval. Side effects, risks, and legal status must be considered before use for research purposes.

Studies demonstrate Semax’s efficacy in various applications. It has been used in treating glaucomatous optic neuropathy in patients with normalized ophthalmic tone and has shown effectiveness in different stages of ischemic stroke. Its nootropic-like activity in humans has been observed, suggesting benefits in cognitive performance, neuroprotection, and mood regulation.

Clinical data indicate Semax’s impact on cognition, with studies showing improved memory test accuracy and changes in the brain’s default mode network, hinting at enhanced information processing and memory capabilities. Its potential in mood regulation is explored, with animal studies suggesting anxiolytic and antidepressant effects under stress.

In terms of neuroprotection, Semax has shown promise in stroke patients, with trials reporting improved motor performance and functional independence. It also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, potentially aiding in conditions like chronic brain ischemia. Its protective effects against various neurotoxins, including alcohol intoxication and neurotoxins related to Parkinson’s disease, have been noted in clinical and pre-clinical trials. Furthermore, Semax might offer gastroprotective benefits. A study indicated its effectiveness in healing peptic ulcers, with a significantly higher healing rate compared to a placebo. Researchers hypothesize these effects might be due to its influence on blood flow, microcirculation, and vascular permeability, though further research is needed to confirm these mechanisms.

Semax emerges as a multifaceted peptide with potential applications in cognitive enhancement, mood regulation, neuroprotection, and gastroprotection. Its mechanism of action involves interacting with critical neurotrophic factors and neurotransmitters, and it demonstrates promising results in both clinical and pre-clinical studies. Despite its potential, it’s important to approach Semax with an understanding of its limited clinical studies, regulatory status, and potential side effects, especially when considering it for research purposes.