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Semax

Peptide

Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone). It has been approved as a prescription medication in Russia and Ukraine for treating stroke, cognitive disorders, and peptic ulcers. Research suggests it may enhance BDNF expression and exhibit nootropic and neuroprotective effects. Most clinical research has been conducted in Russia, with limited Western clinical trials.

Quick Answer

What it is

Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone). It has been approved as a prescription medication in Russia and Ukraine for treating stroke, cognitive disorders, and peptic ulcers.

Key findings

  • Grade B: BDNF Levels (Cognitive Function)
  • Grade C: Stroke Recovery (Neurological Health)
  • Grade C: Memory Performance (Cognitive Function)

Safety

No specific caution or interaction language was detected in the current summary/outcome notes.

⚠️ Research Notice

This peptide information is for educational and research purposes only. Peptides may not be FDA-approved for human use and may only be legally available for research purposes. Consult qualified healthcare professionals before considering any peptide compounds.

ℹ️ Quick Facts: Semax

Quick Facts: Semax

  • Best Evidence:Grade B
  • Conditions Studied:3
  • Research Outcomes:14
  • Grade B Findings:1
  • Key Effect:Cognitive Function
A0
B1
C8
D5
3 conditions · 14 outcomes

Detailed Outcomes

|
B
BDNF Levels
Moderate Increase
moderate↑Improves
C
Memory Performance
Moderate Increase
moderate↑Improves
C
Stroke Recovery
Moderate Improvement
moderate↑Improves
C
GI Protection
4 preclinical studies support this finding. Primarily preclinical evidence.
small↑Improves
C
Immune Function
4 preclinical studies support this finding. Primarily preclinical evidence.
small↑Improves
C
Safety/Tolerability
3 preclinical studies support this finding. Primarily preclinical evidence.
small↑Improves
D
Mortality
2 preclinical studies support this finding. Primarily preclinical evidence.
small↓Improves
D
Pain
2 preclinical studies support this finding. Primarily preclinical evidence.
small↓Improves
D
Depression Symptoms
2 preclinical studies support this finding. Primarily preclinical evidence.
small↓Improves
D
Lipid Profile
2 preclinical studies support this finding. Primarily preclinical evidence.
small↓Improves
D
Cognitive Function
2 preclinical studies support this finding. Primarily preclinical evidence.
small↑Improves
C
Anxiety Symptoms
Small Decrease
small↓Improves

Research Citations (46)

Genes That Associated with Action of ACTH-like Peptides with Neuroprotective Potential in Rat Brain Regions with Different Degrees of Ischemic Damage.
(2025)
PMID: 40650034
The Potential of the Peptide Drug Semax and Its Derivative for Correcting Pathological Impairments in the Animal Model of Alzheimer's Disease.
(2025)
PMID: 41479572
Semax, a Copper Chelator Peptide, Decreases the Cu(II)-Catalyzed ROS Production and Cytotoxicity of aβ by Metal Ion Stripping and Redox Silencing.
(2025)
PMID: 40496623
Antidepressant-like and antistress effects of the ACTH(4-10) synthetic analogs Semax and Melanotan II on male rats in a model of chronic unpredictable stress.
(2024)
PMID: 39442746
Morphofunctional State of the Large Intestine in Rats under Conditions of Restraint Stress and Administration of Peptide ACTH((4-7))-PGP (Semax).
(2021)
PMID: 33459919
Investigation of the effect of a modified fragment of neuropeptide Y on memory phases and extrapolation escape of animals.
(2021)
PMID: 34418946
Correction of Lipid Metabolism Disorders in Diabetes Mellitus with Peptide Drugs.
(2020)
PMID: 32246363
Experimental Substantiation of Application of Semax as a Modulator of Immune Reaction on the Model of "Social" Stress.
(2019)
PMID: 31028579
The efficacy of semax in the treatment of patients at different stages of ischemic stroke
(2018)
PMID: 29798983
Pharmacological Aspects of Neuro-Immune Interactions.
(2018)
PMID: 28875850

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