Semax vs Selank: Nootropic Peptides Compared

Semax and Selank are both synthetic peptides developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics in Russia, but they target different neurological pathways. Semax is derived from ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) fragments and primarily upregulates BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) for cognitive enhancement. Selank is derived from tuftsin (an immunomodulatory peptide) and primarily modulates GABA receptors for anxiolytic and calming effects. They are often stacked together for combined cognitive-anxiolytic benefits in test subjects. For research purposes only.

Semax: A synthetic heptapeptide analog of ACTH(4-10). Increases BDNF and NGF (nerve growth factor) expression in the brain, enhances dopaminergic and serotonergic neurotransmission, and promotes neuroplasticity. Effects include improved memory consolidation, enhanced focus, and increased mental clarity in test subjects. Does not affect the HPA axis despite its ACTH origin. Selank: A synthetic analog of tuftsin with an additional Pro-Gly-Pro sequence. Modulates GABA-A receptor activity (anxiolytic effect), inhibits enkephalinase (prolonging endogenous enkephalin activity), and modulates serotonin and norepinephrine. Effects include reduced anxiety, improved stress resilience, and enhanced emotional stability in test subjects without sedation.

Semax: • Dose: 200-600 mcg daily (often split into 2-3 administrations) • Route: Subcutaneous injection or intranasal • Vial: 10mg • Reconstitution: 10mg + 2mL BAC water = 5mg/mL (50 mcg/unit) • 300 mcg = 6 units • Cycle: 2-4 weeks on, 2-4 weeks off Selank: • Dose: 200-400 mcg daily (often split into 2-3 administrations) • Route: Subcutaneous injection or intranasal • Vial: 10mg • Reconstitution: 10mg + 2mL BAC water = 5mg/mL (50 mcg/unit) • 300 mcg = 6 units • Cycle: 2-4 weeks on, 2-4 weeks off

Primary effect: Semax = Cognitive enhancement | Selank = Anxiolytic/calming Key pathway: Semax = BDNF/NGF upregulation | Selank = GABA modulation Origin peptide: Semax = ACTH fragment | Selank = Tuftsin analog Focus enhancement: Semax = Strong | Selank = Mild Anxiety reduction: Semax = Mild | Selank = Strong Memory improvement: Semax = Strong | Selank = Moderate Sedation: Semax = None | Selank = None Dose range: Semax = 200-600 mcg | Selank = 200-400 mcg Cycle length: Both = 2-4 weeks Stacking together: Excellent synergy — complementary mechanisms

Semax and Selank are frequently stacked in research protocols because their mechanisms are complementary rather than overlapping. Semax provides cognitive drive and neuroplasticity (BDNF pathway) while Selank provides emotional stability and stress resilience (GABA pathway). The combination produces enhanced cognitive function without anxiety — often described as 'calm focus' in test subjects. Stack protocol: • Semax: 200-400 mcg morning + midday • Selank: 200-300 mcg morning + evening • Duration: 2-4 weeks • Break: 2-4 weeks off Both are available from Australian research suppliers. For research purposes only.