Semax
Also known as: ACTH(4-7)-PGP
A synthetic heptapeptide derived from a fragment of ACTH with a C-terminal Pro-Gly-Pro extension that confers enzymatic stability. Developed and studied largely in Russia, where it has had regional regulatory status.
Development status: Preclinical — laboratory and animal studies only
Identifiers and molecular characteristics
- CAS number
- Not verified
- Molecular formula
- Not verified
- Molecular mass
- Not verified
- Amino-acid sequence
- Not verified
- PubChem CID
- Not verified
Identifiers are published only with a source and a check date. Fields marked “not verified” have not yet been confirmed against a primary source — we show the gap rather than an unchecked figure. Always confirm against the certificate of analysis for the specific lot you hold.
Biological targets
- Reported effects on BDNF expression
- Melanocortin-related signalling
Mechanism of action
Based on ACTH(4-7), which lacks the corticotropic activity of full ACTH. The added Pro-Gly-Pro tripeptide slows degradation. Reported effects on neurotrophic factor expression dominate the published mechanism literature.
Research evidence and its limits
A literature concentrated in Russian-language journals, with limited independent replication outside that body of work — a material limitation when assessing it.
Safety considerations
No regulatory authority has assessed this compound as safe or effective for any human indication. The published record is predominantly laboratory and animal work, which does not establish human safety. Supplied and discussed here strictly as a laboratory research material. Not a medicine, not for human or veterinary administration, and nothing on this page should be read as a dosing, treatment or safety recommendation.
Analytical identification and quality testing
Identity by high-resolution mass spectrometry against the expected mass, purity by RP-HPLC with UV detection. Tandem MS sequencing or peptide mapping gives stronger identity evidence than mass alone.
Regulatory status
Has held regional regulatory status in Russia. Not approved by the FDA or EMA.
Frequently asked questions
Does Semax have hormonal effects like ACTH?
The fragment it is based on, ACTH(4-7), lacks the corticotropic activity of the full hormone. That separation of neuroactive from hormonal effects was the point of the design.
References
- PubMed — search Semaxreview
Available from RetraLabs
Semax
10 MG · 99.1% · supplied for laboratory research use only.
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Entry last reviewed 2026-10-11. Regulatory status and scientific understanding change; verify against primary sources before relying on anything here.