Description
What is Semax?
Semax (Met‑Glu‑His‑Phe‑Pro‑Gly‑Pro) is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from the 4–10 fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). Developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, it is registered in Russia for cognitive disorders and ischemic stroke, but is not FDA‑approved. It demonstrates nootropic, neuroprotective, and neurotrophic activity in published research without the steroidogenic effects of the parent ACTH.
Mechanism of Action
- Modulates BDNF and NGF expression in hippocampal and cortical neurons
- Reduces oxidative stress markers and attenuates glutamate excitotoxicity
- Melanocortin‑receptor‑independent activity (lacks cortisol‑stimulating effects of parent ACTH)
- Modulates monoamine neurotransmission (dopamine, serotonin metabolism) in rodent studies
- Intranasal administration favored for blood‑brain‑barrier penetration in clinical Russian use
Compound Properties
- Molecular formula: C37H51N9O10S
- Molecular weight: ~813.93 g/mol
- CAS: 80714‑61‑0
- Sequence: Met‑Glu‑His‑Phe‑Pro‑Gly‑Pro (MEHFPGP)
- Form: Lyophilized powder
- Unit size: 30 mg / vial
- Source: Solid‑phase peptide synthesis; ≥98% purity by HPLC
Research‑Reference Dosing
Published research‑reference ranges (largely Russian literature):
- Kaplan et al., Neuroscience and Behavioral Physiology (various years): Semax in ischemic stroke recovery cohorts.
- Gusev et al., Zhurnal Nevrologii i Psikhiatrii (2005): Semax in acute ischemic stroke clinical trials (intranasal dosing).
- Ashmarin et al., Patologicheskaia Fiziologiia i Eksperimental′naia Terapiia: neuroprotective effects in rodent models.
- Most rigorous clinical data is non‑English; Western peer‑reviewed data is limited.
Research Findings
- Neuroprotection and functional improvement in ischemic stroke cohorts (Gusev 2005)
- Increased BDNF/NGF and reduced oxidative stress in rodent CNS
- Preclinical nootropic activity (memory, attention tasks)
- Evidence base is primarily Russian‑language; Western replication is limited
Known Side Effects Reported in Research/Trials
- Generally well tolerated in published cohorts
- Occasional nasal irritation with intranasal administration
- Rare transient headache, irritability, or insomnia
- Long‑term safety data outside the Russian clinical registry is limited
Storage & Handling
- Lyophilized (unreconstituted) vials: store at −20°C long‑term; short‑term 2–8°C acceptable.
- After reconstitution with bacteriostatic or sterile water: store at 2–8°C; use within 14–28 days per standard peptide stability guidance.
- Protect from light, heat, and repeated freeze‑thaw cycles. Handle in a sterile laboratory environment.
Certificate of Analysis
A Certificate of Analysis (COA) confirming identity and purity by HPLC / MS is available upon request. Contact Lonestar Peptides for lot‑specific documentation.
Summaries reference peer‑reviewed preclinical and clinical literature available as of early 2025. Newer findings may not be reflected. Researchers should consult current literature and conduct their own due diligence. Lonestar Peptides makes no claim of therapeutic benefit.






