Semax
A Russian-developed cognitive peptide used clinically for stroke recovery and ADHD — a BDNF-potentiating nootropic with an anxiolytic edge.
Definition
Semax is a synthetic seven-amino-acid peptide derived from ACTH(4-10), developed and used clinically in Russia for ischaemic stroke recovery, post-concussion syndrome and ADHD. Mechanistically it potentiates brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and modulates the melanocortin and serotonergic systems. Administered intranasally; well-tolerated but outside the Russian regulatory framework its evidence base is limited.
How Meto uses it.
Meto considers Semax for members with post-concussion cognitive complaints when standard approaches plateau. Dosing: intranasal, 250–1000 mcg daily, in cycles of 10–14 days. Positioned as complementary to—not replacement for—physical therapy and cognitive rehabilitation.
Safety notes
- Most evidence from Russian clinical literature; limited Western RCTs
- Avoid in pregnancy and lactation
- Not a substitute for standard post-stroke or concussion rehabilitation
- Very well-tolerated overall
Not a complete list — your clinician reviews your full history, labs and medications during intake. Nothing here replaces that.
Common questions
Does Semax improve cognition in healthy adults?
The evidence for healthy-adult cognitive enhancement is thin. The stronger signal is in clinical populations.
$149 panel.
A clinician reads it in 24 hours.
Order the Peptide Readiness Panel, draw at a Quest or LabCorp near you, and your clinician sends back a matched protocol with a confidence score.