howtosupplement
Cognition/Performance

Semax

Synthetic nootropic peptide used for cognitive support and neurorecovery, primarily studied in Russia for cerebrovascular disorders.

Semax

Semax

38
score
C
evidence
Caution
risk

Proven Benefits

01May improve cognitive function
02May aid stroke recovery
03May reduce mental fatigue

Chemical Forms

Recommended
  • Nasal spray (acetate or amidate)
Avoid
  • Oral capsules (poor peptide absorption)
  • Unverified raw powder (sterility and dosing risks)
Expert Note

As a peptide, Semax is destroyed by gastric enzymes and has negligible oral bioavailability. Intranasal delivery bypasses first-pass metabolism and provides direct central nervous system uptake via the olfactory region. Injectable forms exist in research settings but require professional administration.

Protocol

Amount
300-600 mcg
Frequency
Once or twice daily
When
Morning or early afternoon; avoid late-day dosing due to potential alertness effects.

Condition-Based Dosing

Cognitive impairment or post-stroke recovery
600 mcg twice daily intranasally for 5-10 days
General nootropic use in healthy adults
300-600 mcg once daily intranasally

Safety & Limits

Upper Safe Limit
No established UL; clinical protocols have used up to 600 mcg twice daily short-term. Long-term safety data beyond several weeks is sparse.
Cycling
4-6 weeks on followed by 2-4 weeks off, based on Russian clinical practice and theoretical receptor adaptation.

Contraindications

Pregnancy or breastfeeding — no safety data
Active malignancy — melanocortin peptides may theoretically influence cell signaling
Severe uncontrolled hypertension — may affect cerebral circulation

Avoid Combining With

  • ✕Alcohol (may blunt neurotrophic and cognitive effects)
  • ✕Sedatives or hypnotics (theoretical antagonism of alertness effects)
Updated Invalid Date