Semax

Semax is a synthetic peptide derived from a fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), described in the literature as a synthetic analog of ACTH(4-10). It has been modified so that it does not carry the corticotropic, or hormone-releasing, activity of its parent sequence. Research has examined Semax in the context of mental clarity, focus, cognitive resilience and neuroprotection, including animal models of stroke and spinal cord injury.

Research has investigated Semax for its influence on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression, a signaling pathway associated with neural adaptability and resilience. It has also been studied in relation to dopaminergic and serotonergic systems linked to attention. Genome-wide studies in rats with focal brain ischemia reported changes in the expression of genes related to immune and vascular systems, and one mouse study linked its effects after spinal cord injury to the μ opioid receptor gene Oprm1.

Published work has examined Semax in rat models of experimental stroke, where ACTH-like peptides were reported to shift brain gene expression profiles disrupted by ischemia. A clinical trial evaluated Semax in patients at different stages of ischemic stroke. Imaging studies have explored its effects on the brain's default mode network and functional connectivity, and a 2025 mouse study examined functional recovery after spinal cord injury. Early evidence is promising but not definitive.

Human safety data on Semax are limited, and adverse events are not summarized in the cited studies. The peptide is described as a modified ACTH fragment lacking corticotropic activity, meaning it is not expected to act on the hormonal pathways of its parent sequence, but this has not been confirmed through large, long-term controlled trials. Much of the available research comes from animal models and relatively small human studies.

Research protocols have used 1–2 mg per administration by the subcutaneous route, once daily in the morning, in 4-week blocks followed by 4 weeks off. These figures describe what research protocols have used and are not a recommendation. Each CoreX order ships with a protocol guide for laboratory reference. Semax is supplied for laboratory research use only.