What is Semax?
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from a fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH 4-10), developed in Russia. It is studied for cognitive and neuroprotective endpoints and is one of the most-cited nootropic research peptides.
How Semax works (research mechanism)
Semax research focuses on up-regulation of BDNF and nerve-growth-factor signaling and on modulation of monoamine systems, with interest in learning, memory, and neuroprotection endpoints.
Primary research applications
Cognitive / focus research
Studied for attention, learning, and memory endpoints.
Neuroprotection research
Examined in models of neural stress and recovery.
BDNF-signaling research
A model compound for neurotrophic-factor studies.
Research dosing reference
Research references commonly cite 300-600 mcg daily across 2-4 week cycles. Reference values only.
Reconstitution & handling
Semax ships as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder and must be reconstituted before use in any liquid research model. Allow the vial to reach room temperature, swab the stopper, then add bacteriostatic water slowly down the inside wall of the vial - never spray it directly onto the powder. Swirl gently until dissolved; do not shake, as shaking foams the solution and stresses the peptide. The volume of water you add sets the concentration: a 5 mg vial reconstituted with 2 mL yields 2,500 mcg/mL, so 0.1 mL measures 250 mcg. A correctly reconstituted Semax solution is clear; discard if it is cloudy or shows particulate.
Storage & stability
Store un-reconstituted Semax vials refrigerated and protected from light for long-term stability; the lyophilized form is robust and tolerates shipping. After reconstitution, refrigerate at 2-8C, keep away from light, and use within the typical research window of roughly two to four weeks. The benzyl alcohol in bacteriostatic water helps inhibit microbial growth across that period. Always label reconstituted vials with the concentration and date.
Common research pairings
Semax + Selank pairs focus and anxiety endpoints in cognitive research.
How Semax compares
Semax is studied more for focus and BDNF, Selank more for anxiety; N-Acetyl Semax Amidate is a more potent, longer-lasting analog.
Safety & research considerations
Semax is a research chemical not approved for human use. For laboratory research only.
Sourcing, purity & Certificate of Analysis
Every lot of Semax sold by Peptides Factory Direct is third-party tested to a 99%+ purity target, with identity confirmed by mass spectrometry and purity quantified by HPLC. A Certificate of Analysis (COA) documenting these results is available on request and ties each vial to a tracked lot. Material ships nationwide to all 50 US states with cold-chain handling where appropriate and fast domestic dispatch. This documentation is what separates research-grade Semax from unverified material - quality is established before the vial ever reaches your lab.
How to order Semax for research
Semax can be ordered through the Peptides Factory Direct research portal as a one-time purchase or on a recurring research schedule (every 2 weeks, monthly, every 2 months, or every 3 months). Checkout requires confirming you are 21 or older, purchasing for laboratory research only, and that the product is not for human or animal consumption. Bulk and standing-order pricing is available - note it in your order. Open the order portal to view current research sizes and pricing.
Frequently asked questions
What is Semax researched for?
Cognition, focus, neuroprotection, and BDNF-signaling endpoints. Research use only.
Semax vs N-Acetyl Semax Amidate?
The amidate analog is studied as more potent and longer-lasting than regular Semax.
What sizes are available?
5 mg and 10 mg vials, third-party tested, COA on request.
Related Cognitive & Neurological peptides
All Cognitive & Neurological peptides · Research guides & articles
External references: Peptides (Wikipedia) · U.S. Food and Drug Administration