Structure · schematic
Peptide chain of 7 amino acids · Sonstiges
Sequence
Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro (MEHFPGP)
Schematic representation of the amino acid chain — not a chemical structural formula. Each node represents one amino acid.
Research areas*
* Contexts in which the peptide has been scientifically studied — not assured or recommended effects.
Mechanism of action
- Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences.
- It is structurally derived from the ACTH(4-7) sequence (Met-Glu-His-Phe) with an additional Pro-Gly-Pro sequence that increases enzymatic stability.
- In preclinical studies, interactions with the melanocortin system (MC4R), BDNF expression and the dopaminergic system have been described.
- Administered intranasally, Semax crosses the blood-brain barrier in animal models.
- Postulated effects include modulation of learning and memory processes and neuroprotective properties.
Research status
- Semax has been approved as a medicine in Russia since 1996 for ischaemic stroke and cerebral performance disorders.
- Clinical studies from Russia and Ukraine investigated the substance in stroke, ADHD-like symptoms and cognitive impairment.
- These studies predominantly do not meet Western GCP standards (lack of randomisation, small sample sizes, no independent replication).
- Western Phase II/III studies do not exist.
- The substance is widely discussed in the nootropics community; robust clinical evidence for cognitive enhancement in healthy individuals is lacking.
Evidence level
Cited studies
Known risks
- 01No Western GCP standard — safety profile in humans not robustly established
- 02Possible changes in dopaminergic and serotonergic neurotransmission with chronic use
- 03Interactions with psychiatric medications not studied
- 04Intranasally administered peptides: irritation of the nasal mucosa, possible local damage with long-term use
- 05Dependence potential through action on the dopamine system cannot be ruled out
- 06Product quality cannot be verified from unapproved sources
Frequently asked questions
What is Semax?
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences.
What type of peptide is Semax?
Semax belongs to the Other class.
Is Semax legal in Germany?
Semax is not approved as a medicine in Germany. Obtaining it outside clinical studies is legally problematic.
Where can I buy Semax?
Peptica sells nothing and names no sources. Semax is "not approved" in Germany; obtaining unapproved substances outside clinical studies is illegal and carries quality and safety risks.
Is Semax banned in sport (WADA)?
Semax is currently not on the WADA Prohibited List.
What are the known risks of Semax?
Documented risks include: No Western GCP standard — safety profile in humans not robustly established; Possible changes in dopaminergic and serotonergic neurotransmission with chronic use. This is not a complete safety assessment and not medical advice — see the risks section for the full list.
How well researched is Semax?
The evidence is classified as “early clinical studies”. 2 studies are cited on this page.
What is the molecular weight of Semax?
Semax has a molar mass of about 813.9 Da.
Which peptides are related to Semax?
Closely related entries: Selank. A direct side-by-side comparison is available via the compare function.
Related entries
Legal status
Germany
not approvedAustria
not approvedSwitzerland
not approvedEU
not approvedUSA
not approvedCanada
not approvedLegal status varies by country and can change. This is not legal advice.
Sources & methodology
- 2 peer-reviewed studies cited, linked to PubMed where available.
- Molecular data verified against PubChem and primary literature. PubChem CID 9811102
- Editorial standard: no dosage guidance, no sources, evidence level stated explicitly.
Last editorially reviewed: 1 May 2026
Legal assessment
Semax is approved as a medicine in Russia but has no approval by the EMA or national authorities in Germany, Austria or Switzerland. Not listed on the WADA Prohibited List. Import for personal use is legally unclear; if classified as a medicine by German authorities, § 95 AMG applies.
Important notice
This site is intended solely for factual, scientifically oriented information about peptides. It does not constitute medical advice, does not replace a consultation with a doctor and contains no recommendations for use in humans.
This site does not sell any substances and names no sources for unapproved substances. For medical questions, please consult qualified medical professionals.
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