Semax 5mg

Description

Semax: A History and Overview

Semax is a synthetic peptide nootropic that has garnered interest within the neuropharmacology field for its wide range of cognitive and neuroprotective effects. Initially developed in Russia in the 1980s, Semax is primarily used for its cognitive enhancing properties and as a treatment for various neurological conditions. Its molecular structure is a short peptide derived from adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and is considered to be a more potent analogue of this hormone.

Semax Chemical Composition

• Chemical Structure: Semax is a tripeptide with the sequence Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro, which is a fragment of the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).
• Synonyms: ACTH (4-7), Pro-Gly-Pro-;ACTH (4-7), Pro-Gly-Pro trifluoroacetate salt;L-Methionyl-L-a-glutamyl-L-histidyl-L-phenylalanyl-L-prolylglycyl-L-proline trifluoroacetate salt;Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro;Semax;(PRO8,GLY9,PRO10)ACTH-(4-10);SemaxAcetate;L-METHIONYL-L-Α-GLUTAMYL-L-HISTIDYL-L-PHENYLALANYL-L-PROLYLGLYCYL-L-PROLINE
• CAS: 80714-61-0
• Molecular Formula: The molecular formula for Semax would include the composition of carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur atoms, reflective of its amino acid sequence.
• Stability: Semax displays a good degree of stability, especially when stored properly in a freeze-dried form at cool temperatures. Once reconstituted, it should be kept refrigerated and used within a limited time frame to maintain its efficacy.
• Solubility: It is soluble in water, which facilitates its administration through various routes, including nasal spray, which is the most common form of administration.
• Mechanism of Action: While the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, Semax is believed to modulate the expression and release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and other neurotrophins, contributing to its neuroprotective and neurogenic effects. It may also influence neurotransmitter systems and enhance cognitive functions.
• Neuroprotective Effects: Semax has been shown to protect neurons from oxidative stress and ischemic damage, making it potentially useful in the treatment of stroke, traumatic brain injury, and cognitive disorders.
• Cognitive Enhancement: Studies suggest that Semax can improve memory, attention, and cognitive performance, possibly through its effects on BDNF and neurotrophin levels in the brain.
• Anxiolytic Properties: Semax has demonstrated anxiolytic effects in some studies, reducing anxiety without sedation, which distinguishes it from many traditional anxiolytics.
• Stress Response Modulation: It may influence the body’s stress response by modulating ACTH and cortisol levels, providing a potential therapeutic avenue for stress-related disorders.
• Safety Profile: Clinical trials and research indicate that Semax has a favorable safety profile, with few reported side effects. However, as with any drug, individual responses can vary.
• Legal Status and Availability: In Russia, Semax is approved for clinical use in treating various neurological conditions. Outside of Russia, it is often marketed as a research chemical or dietary supplement.
• Shelf Life: 36 months
• Appearance: White lipolyzed powder puck

Mechanism of Action

Semax’s mechanism of action is complex and not entirely understood, but it is known to modulate the expression and sensitivity of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its TrkB receptor, playing a crucial role in neuronal survival, plasticity, and growth. It also influences the dopaminergic and serotonergic systems, which may contribute to its mood-enhancing and anti-anxiety effects. Furthermore, Semax appears to increase the levels of enkephalins, which are involved in modulating pain response and stress.

Clinical Applications

Cognitive Enhancement

One of the primary uses of Semax is for cognitive enhancement. Studies suggest that it may improve attention, memory, and learning capabilities. This has made it a substance of interest not only for individuals seeking to enhance their cognitive performance but also as a potential treatment for cognitive impairments associated with various neurological disorders.

Neuroprotection and Stroke Recovery

Semax has demonstrated neuroprotective properties, making it a candidate for the treatment of stroke and transient ischemic attacks (TIAs). It is believed to reduce neuronal death and improve outcomes after cerebral ischemia. Additionally, its ability to enhance neurogenesis and neuronal plasticity could aid in the recovery process following brain injury.

Mood Disorders and Anxiety

Although not its primary indication, Semax has been reported to have mood-stabilizing and anti-anxiety effects. These properties could potentially make it a useful adjunct in the treatment of certain mood disorders, including depression and anxiety, though more research is needed in this area.

Safety and Side Effects

Semax is generally considered safe when used at recommended doses. Reported side effects are minimal but may include mild irritation at the site of administration (for nasal spray formulations), headache, and nausea. Due to its potent effects on the brain, users should exercise caution and consult with a healthcare provider before starting Semax, especially if they have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications.

Conclusion

Semax presents a promising avenue for cognitive enhancement and the treatment of various neurological conditions due to its neuroprotective, neurogenic, and cognitive-enhancing properties. However, despite its potential, it remains relatively underresearched in the West, and further studies are needed to fully understand its mechanisms, efficacy, and safety profile in broader populations.

Referenced Citations

1. Effects of Semax on the Default Mode Network of the Brain: This study investigated the impact of Semax on the brain’s default mode network using resting state functional MRI in healthy volunteers, suggesting changes in brain activity associated with the drug’s nootropic effects. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30225715/)
2. The peptide Semax affects the expression of genes related to the immune and vascular systems in rat brain focal ischemia: This research explored how Semax influences gene expression related to the vascular and immune systems during experimental focal ischemia, highlighting its neuroprotective and regenerative properties. (https://bmcgenomics.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1471-2164-15-228)
3. Brain Protein Expression Profile Confirms the Protective Effect of the ACTH (4-7) PGP Peptide (Semax) in a Rat Model of Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion: This study provides evidence of Semax’s protective effects in a rat model of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion, emphasizing its role in neuroprotection. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24661604/)
4. Effect of Semax and its C-terminal fragment Pro-Gly-Pro on the expression of VEGF family genes and their receptors in experimental focal ischemia of the rat brain: Investigates Semax’s effect on VEGF family genes and receptors in rat brain ischemia, suggesting a role in vascular health and recovery. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24661604/)
5. Semax and Pro-Gly-Pro activate the transcription of neurotrophins and their receptor genes after cerebral ischemia: This study examines how Semax and its fragments influence the transcription of neurotrophins and their receptors following cerebral ischemia, indicating potential mechanisms for its neuroprotective effects. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24661604/)
6. Nootropic and analgesic effects of Semax following different routes of administration: Research on Semax’s nootropic and analgesic effects depending on the administration route, contributing to understanding its versatile therapeutic potential. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30225715/)
7. Functional Connectomic Approach to Studying Selank and Semax Effects: A study assessing the impact of Semax on whole-brain resting-state functional connectivity, providing insights into its effects on brain network dynamics. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30225715/)
8. Semax, an analog of ACTH with cognitive effects: This research focuses on Semax as an ACTH analog, exploring its profound effects on learning and neuroprotection after intranasal application. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30225715/)
9. Semax, synthetic ACTH(4–10) analogue, attenuates long-term effects of neonatal exposure to fluvoxamine in rats: Looks at Semax’s long-term effects on rats exposed neonatally to an SSRI, suggesting implications for developmental neuroprotection. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30225715/)
10. Clinical Trials of the Peptide Semax: Unveiling its Therapeutic Potential: Summarizes clinical trial data on Semax, highlighting its safety, efficacy, and potential as a therapeutic agent across various medical conditions. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30225715/)