What is Semax?

Human clinical studiesCognitive research · Last reviewed September 28, 2026

Semax is a synthetic seven-amino-acid peptide derived from a fragment of ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone), developed in Russia.

How does Semax work?

Studies suggest it raises brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and influences dopamine and serotonin signaling, without ACTH’s hormonal effects.

What are researchers studying?

●Stroke recovery (clinical use in Russia)
●Attention and memory in animal models
●Nerve-cell protection

Where does the evidence stand?

Human clinical studies

Approved as a medicine in Russia. Not approved by the FDA.

Quick facts

Research area: Cognitive
Sequence: Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro
Third-party lab results: 5 published COAs →
Tested vendors tracking it: 2 vendors →

Recent peer-reviewed research

The most relevant Semax studies from the last three years, via PubMed (U.S. National Library of Medicine).

Synthetic Peptides in Pharmacy Compounding: Analysis of PCAC Recommendations and Industry Safety Standards
International journal of pharmaceutical compounding · 2026 Jul-Aug · PubMed ↗
Therapeutic peptides in gerontology: mechanisms and applications for healthy aging
Frontiers in aging · 2026 · PubMed ↗
Effect of ACTH4-10Pro8-Gly9-Pro10 on anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-4, IL-10, IL-13) expression in acute spinal cord injury models (male Sprague Dawley rats)
F1000Research · 2023 · PubMed ↗
Modulation of neuropathological pathways by bioactive peptides and proteins/polypeptides: Targeting oxidative stress in neurodegenerative diseases
Neuropeptides · 2025 Dec · PubMed ↗
Semax peptide targets the μ opioid receptor gene Oprm1 to promote deubiquitination and functional recovery after spinal cord injury in female mice
British journal of pharmacology · 2025 Nov · PubMed ↗

Compare Semax

Semax vs Selank

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This guide summarizes published research for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and does not describe how to use Semax. Citations link to PubMed and are listed for reference — we haven't reviewed or endorsed their findings. Products referenced on The Peptide Audit are sold by third parties for laboratory research use only and are not for human consumption.