Nootropic Peptides

Nootropic peptides are short peptides that are studied for their effect on the nervous system. The two best known compounds, Semax and Selank, were developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics in Moscow and are registered as medicines in Russia. In most other countries they are available only as research compounds. This category contains both as lyophilised powder.

Nootropic peptides in this category

• Semax 10 mg: a seven amino acid peptide based on a fragment of the hormone ACTH, without the hormonal effect of ACTH. Studied in connection with BDNF, a growth factor of nerve cells.
• Selank 10 mg: a seven amino acid peptide based on the natural peptide tuftsin. Studied in connection with the GABA system and with anxiety models in animals.

Semax vs Selank: how to choose

Semax and Selank are often mentioned together, but they come from different parent molecules and are studied for different questions. Semax research focuses on neurotrophic factors, attention and recovery of nerve tissue. Selank research focuses on the stress response, the immune system and the GABA receptor. In Russia, Semax is registered for neurological indications and Selank for anxiety related indications, which reflects this division.

For research that compares the two, both are supplied in the same 10 mg vial size and are handled the same way.

Handling of nootropic peptides

Semax and Selank are supplied as lyophilised powder in sealed vials and stored cold and dry. They are dissolved before use, usually in bacteriostatic water or sterile saline. Both peptides are sensitive to repeated freezing and thawing. Our guide on how to reconstitute peptides explains the method and storage.

Research status of Semax and Selank

Outside Russia and some neighbouring countries, neither compound is an approved medicine. Most of the published research comes from Russian institutes, and independent studies are limited. Both products are sold here for laboratory research use only and are not intended for human or veterinary use. Related compounds for nerve and immune research are in our immune peptides category.