Semax — Vendor Pricing & Purity Guide
Research Overview
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide analog of ACTH (4-7), the active fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone. Developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences in the 1980s, Semax is approved in Russia and Ukraine as a prescription medication for cognitive disorders, stroke recovery, and peptic ulcer treatment. It is administered intranasally.
Unlike full-length ACTH, Semax does not stimulate adrenal cortisol production. Its truncated structure retains the nootropic and neuroprotective properties of the ACTH(4-7) fragment while avoiding the hormonal effects of the full molecule. Semax enhances cognitive function through multiple mechanisms: it increases BDNF expression, modulates dopaminergic and serotonergic neurotransmission, enhances synaptic plasticity, and provides neuroprotection against oxidative stress.
Semax exists in several forms: standard Semax, N-Acetyl Semax, and N-Acetyl Semax Amidate (NASA). Each successive modification increases metabolic stability and CNS penetration. N-Acetyl Semax Amidate is considered the most potent form, though standard Semax has the most clinical data supporting its use.
Key Research Findings
- •Approved as a prescription medication in Russia for ischemic stroke recovery, demonstrating improved neurological outcomes
- •Increased BDNF expression by 50-100% in rodent hippocampus, promoting neuroplasticity and memory formation
- •Enhanced attention and working memory in healthy volunteers in placebo-controlled studies
- •Demonstrated neuroprotective effects against oxidative stress and excitotoxicity in neuronal cell cultures
- •Improved cognitive recovery in post-stroke patients when administered within 24 hours of ischemic event
- •Modulated expression of neurotrophins NGF and BDNF, suggesting broad neuroprotective potential
Research Dosage Protocols
Semax is administered intranasally in both clinical and research settings. The Russian-approved formulation is a 1% nasal spray solution (10 mg/mL).
Clinical dosing for cognitive enhancement uses 200-600 mcg intranasally per day, divided into 2-3 doses. For stroke recovery, higher doses (6-12 mg/day) have been used in Russian clinical protocols. Standard research courses run 14-30 days.
Semax is available as lyophilized powder for reconstitution. N-Acetyl Semax and N-Acetyl Semax Amidate variants are available at lower doses (100-300 mcg/day) due to enhanced potency. Intranasal administration provides direct CNS access via the olfactory nerve.
For research reference only. Not medical advice. Not for human consumption.
Published Research (2 studies)
- [1]
- [2]
Links go to PubMed (NIH National Library of Medicine). PeptideVerdict is not affiliated with these studies.
Price Comparison (17 products from 12 vendors)
| Vendor | Price | Stock |
|---|---|---|
| Biotech Peptides | $53.00 $2.12/mg 25mg vial | In Stock |
| Biotech Peptides | $57.00 $2.28/mg 25mg vial | In Stock |
| Skye Peptides | $69.00 $2.30/mg 30mg lyophilized | In Stock |
| Core Peptides | $60.00 $2.40/mg 25mg vial | In Stock |
| Swiss Chems | $73.95 $2.46/mg 30mg vial | In Stock |
| Peptide Sciences | $75.00 $2.50/mg 30mg lyophilized | In Stock |
| Peptide Sciences | $75.00 $2.50/mg 30mg lyophilized | In Stock |
| Core Peptides | $63.00 $2.52/mg 25mg vial | In Stock |
| Skye Peptides | $89.00 $2.97/mg 30mg lyophilized | In Stock |
| BioLongevity Labs | $64.97 $3.25/mg 20mg vial | In Stock |
| Polaris Peptides | $50.00 $3.33/mg 15mg lyophilized | Out |
| Particle Peptides | $34.99 $3.50/mg 10mg lyophilized | Out |
| Peptide Crafters | $35.00 $3.50/mg 10mg lyophilized | In Stock |
| Paradigm Peptides | $25.00 $5.00/mg 5mg lyophilized | In Stock |
| Simple Peptide | $55.00 $5.50/mg 10mg lyophilized | In Stock |
| Soma Chems | $34.99 vial | In Stock |
| Soma Chems | $49.99 spray | In Stock |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Semax?
Semax is a synthetic peptide based on ACTH(4-7), approved in Russia as a prescription nootropic and neuroprotective agent. It enhances cognitive function through BDNF upregulation and neurotransmitter modulation without affecting cortisol levels.
What are the different forms of Semax?
Three forms are available: standard Semax, N-Acetyl Semax (acetylated for improved stability), and N-Acetyl Semax Amidate (NASA — both acetylated and amidated for maximum stability and CNS penetration). NASA is considered the most potent per-microgram.
How does Semax compare to Selank?
Semax is primarily a cognitive enhancer (nootropic) based on ACTH, while Selank is primarily an anxiolytic based on tuftsin. Semax boosts focus and memory; Selank reduces anxiety. They are often studied together as complementary nootropics.
Where can I buy Semax for research?
Semax is available from research peptide vendors as lyophilized powder or nasal spray. Compare pricing across vendors in the table above — check which form (standard, N-Acetyl, or NASA) is being offered.