Amino Acid & Peptide · Compound

Semax

Provisional Moderate Scoreamino_acid

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 18, 2026Last updated March 18, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide (Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro) that enhances cognitive function by increasing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and modulating neurotransmitter activity. This nootropic peptide supports neuroplasticity, memory formation, and stress recovery through its interaction with melanocortin receptors.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryAmino Acid & Peptide

GroupCompound

Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate

Primary Keywordsemax benefits

Semax close-up macro showing natural texture and detail — rich in neuroprotective, nootropic, antioxidant

Semax — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Enhances cognitive function and memory by increasing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), supporting neuroplasticity and learning. - Reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression by modulating neurotransmitter levels, including serotonin and dopamine. - Accelerates mental recovery after stress or brain injury by promoting neuroprotection and reducing oxidative stress. - Improves attention span and focus by stimulating the prefrontal cortex, leading to better executive function. - Boosts mental energy and alertness by increasing cerebral blood flow and oxygenation. - Supports mood stabilization through regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. - May enhance long-term memory retention by up to 30% in clinical studies, making it valuable for students and professionals. - Offers neuroprotective effects against age-related cognitive decline by reducing inflammation and supporting synaptic health.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Semax is a synthetic peptide derived from adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). It was developed in Russia and is synthesized using peptide synthesis techniques. Semax is primarily used for its nootropic and neuroprotective properties.

“Developed in Russia in the 1980s, Semax is used in Eastern Europe for cognitive enhancement and neuroprotection.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Semax has been studied in animal models and limited human trials, showing potential cognitive and neuroprotective benefits. More extensive clinical trials are needed.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

- Composed of a sequence of amino acids. - Administered as a nasal spray for direct brain delivery. - Non-toxic and well-tolerated in studied doses.

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Semax activates melanocortin MC4 receptors and increases expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), promoting neuroplasticity and synaptic strength. The peptide modulates dopaminergic and serotonergic neurotransmission while enhancing acetylcholine release in the hippocampus. It also activates the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, supporting neuronal survival and growth.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Human studies with 50-100 participants show Semax improves cognitive performance scores by 15-25% compared to placebo when administered nasally at 600-900 mcg daily. Clinical trials demonstrate significant reductions in anxiety and depression ratings after 10-14 days of treatment. Research evidence comes primarily from Eastern European studies, with some methodological limitations and need for larger Western clinical trials for regulatory approval.

Also Known As

Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-ProSEMAX peptideACTH(4-10) analogHeptapeptide SEMAXRussian nootropic peptideMEHFPGP

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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