Semax Protocol Guide
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide analog of ACTH(4-10) with a Pro-Gly-Pro tripeptide added to the C-terminus for enhanced enzymatic stability. Developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics in Moscow, it is one of the most extensively studied nootropic peptides with approved clinical use in Russia. Semax strongly upregulates brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), nerve growth factor (NGF), and glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), promoting neuroplasticity, neuroprotection, and cognitive enhancement. This protocol covers intranasal dosing at 200-600mcg 2-3x daily, N-Acetyl Semax variants, and cognitive stacking strategies.
Protocol Overview
- Compound
- Semax (ACTH 4-10 + PGP)
- Category
- Nootropic / Neuroprotective / Neurotrophic
- Mechanism
- Upregulates BDNF, NGF, GDNF; modulates dopaminergic and serotonergic neurotransmission; enhances cholinergic activity; melanocortin receptor modulation
- MW
- 813.9 Da (7 amino acids + PGP)
- Half-Life
- ~2-3 minutes (intranasal bioavailability extends effective duration to 4-8 hours)
- Form
- Nasal spray (0.1% or 1% solution) or lyophilized powder
- Route
- Intranasal (preferred) or subcutaneous
- Frequency
- 2-3x daily
- Cycle
- 2-4 weeks on / 1-2 weeks off
Dosing
| Variant | Dose | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Semax | 200-600 mcg per dose | 2-3x daily | Morning + midday preferred; 0.1% solution |
| N-Acetyl Semax (NASA) | 50-200 mcg per dose | 2-3x daily | 50-100x more potent; lower doses needed |
| N-Acetyl Semax Amidate (NASAA) | 50-200 mcg per dose | 2-3x daily | Amidated C-terminus; enhanced stability |
| Subcutaneous | 200-400 mcg | 1-2x daily | Alternative route; slightly longer onset |
Administer intranasally after clearing passages. Tilt head slightly back. Effects onset: 10-20 minutes intranasally. Avoid late-evening dosing as stimulating effects may interfere with sleep.
Timeline
Side Effects & Stacking
Side Effects
- Mild nasal irritation (intranasal)
- Slight stimulation/restlessness (dose-dependent)
- Hair shedding reported at very high doses (rare, reversible)
- Mild headache initially (uncommon)
- No addiction, tolerance, or withdrawal reported
Stacking
- Selank: Classic anxiolytic complement (Semax stimulates, Selank calms)
- NAD+: Mitochondrial + neurotrophic synergy
- GHK-Cu: Neuroregeneration + systemic anti-aging
- BPC-157: Dopamine system restoration
- Ipamorelin: GH support for neuroregeneration
Blood Work
| Panel | Markers | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Neurological | BDNF (serum), cortisol, DHEA-S | Baseline, Week 4 |
| Immune | CBC w/ differential | Baseline |
| Metabolic | CMP, thyroid panel (TSH, free T3/T4) | Baseline |
