Selank

Human clinical Cognitive Enhancement In 1 protocol 3 sources

Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide analogue of the naturally occurring immunomodulatory peptide tuftsin. It has been extensively researched for its anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) and nootropic (cognitive-enhancing) properties, showing the ability to reduce stress and improve memory without the sedative side effects typical of traditional anti-anxiety medications.

01Dosing reference

Amount

250-500 mcg per day (often administered via nasal spray or SubQ)

Frequency

1-3 times daily

Cycle

10-14 days on, followed by a break of 1-2 weeks

Reference figures, not a recommendationThese values reflect amounts described in the literature and vendor documentation this database indexes. Use the reconstitution calculator to convert them into syringe units.

02Mechanism of action

GABAergic Modulation and Enkephalin Preservation

Selank modulates GABA receptors and inhibits the enzymes responsible for degrading endogenous enkephalins.

BDNF Elevation

It increases the expression of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus.

Neuroplasticity and Mood Regulation

These actions lead to enhanced neuroplasticity, improved memory consolidation, and a significant reduction in anxiety and stress responses.

03Human evidence

Significant reduction in anxiety symptoms in patients with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

Clinical trials in Russia demonstrated that Selank was as effective as low-dose benzodiazepines in reducing anxiety, but without causing sedation, muscle relaxation, or cognitive impairment.

Improvement in memory and learning under stress.

Studies involving healthy volunteers and patients with anxiety disorders showed enhanced cognitive performance, attention, and memory consolidation during stressful conditions.

04Preclinical evidence

Increased BDNF expression in the hippocampus.

Rat models showed that Selank administration significantly elevated BDNF levels, which is crucial for neuroplasticity, learning, and memory.

Inhibition of enkephalin-degrading enzymes.

In vitro and animal studies demonstrated that Selank prevents the breakdown of endogenous enkephalins, prolonging their mood-stabilizing and stress-reducing actions.

05What is known vs. unknown

Reasonably established

Acts as a potent anxiolytic without causing sedation, muscle relaxation, or withdrawal symptoms.
Enhances cognitive functions such as memory, learning, and attention, particularly under stress.
Modulates the expression of BDNF and interacts favorably with the GABAergic system.
Possesses immunomodulatory properties due to its structural similarity to the naturally occurring peptide tuftsin.

Unknowns & limits

Lack of large-scale, multi-center clinical trials outside of Russia and Eastern Europe.
The long-term effects of continuous, extended use are not fully documented in Western medical literature.
Precise receptor binding mechanisms and full pharmacokinetic profiles in diverse populations require further elucidation.

06Safety & regulatory context

Regulatory statusSelank is generally considered safe with a low toxicity profile and no reported withdrawal symptoms, dependence, or addiction potential. Mild side effects are rare but may include temporary irritation at the administration site (as it is most commonly administered via nasal spray). It is approved for medical use in Russia for the treatment of anxiety and cognitive disorders. However, it is not FDA-approved in the United States or evaluated by the EMA, where it is primarily sold and classified as a research chemical.

07Compared with Semax

Selank vs. Semax

Key difference

While both are Russian-developed nootropic peptides, Selank is primarily anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) with secondary cognitive benefits, whereas Semax is primarily a cognitive enhancer and neuroprotectant with less focus on anxiety.

When researchers discuss each

Selank is discussed when the primary goal is to reduce stress and anxiety while maintaining cognitive clarity, whereas Semax is preferred for acute cognitive enhancement, focus, and recovery from neurological insults.

08Appears in protocols

🧠 Cognitive Enhancement Protocol

200-500 mcg/dayDaily

09Glossary

Tuftsin

A naturally occurring tetrapeptide that stimulates the immune system, of which Selank is a synthetic analogue.

Anxiolytic

A medication, compound, or intervention designed to reduce anxiety.

BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor)

A protein that promotes the survival of nerve cells and plays a crucial role in the growth, maturation, and maintenance of these cells, heavily involved in learning and memory.

Enkephalins

Endogenous opioid peptides in the brain that are involved in regulating nociception (pain) and mood.

10Knowledge check

Q1What is the primary mechanism by which Selank exerts its anxiolytic effects?

Q2How does Selank differ from traditional benzodiazepines in treating anxiety?

Q3Which of the following is the most clearly documented limitation of the clinical evidence for Selank in the supplied dossier?

Q4According to the dossier's stated comparison, in which research context is Selank typically preferred over Semax?

Q5Which statement about Selank's safety and regulatory status is supported by the dossier?

11Sources

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Semax

Cognitive Enhancement

Human clinical

Semax is a synthetic peptide derived from adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) that has been extensively studied for its neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing properties. Research indicates it may modulate brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and protect neurons from hypoxic damage, making it a subject of interest in stroke recovery and cognitive decline.

200-1000 mcg per day

Dihexa

Cognitive Enhancement

Preclinical only

Dihexa is an oligopeptide variant derived from angiotensin IV that binds to hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and its receptor c-Met. Research in animal models suggests it has profound synaptogenic and neurogenic properties, showing potential for improving cognitive function and repairing brain damage in conditions like Alzheimer's disease and traumatic brain injury.

10-20 mg/day (oral/sublingual) or 2-5 mg/day (SubQ)

Nemifitide

Cognitive Enhancement

Human clinical

Nemifitide (INN-00835) is a novel synthetic pentapeptide analog of melanocyte-inhibiting factor (MIF-1). Research indicates it may possess rapid-acting antidepressant properties, showing efficacy in clinical trials for major depressive disorder within days rather than weeks.

30-45 mg/day

Research and educational use onlyNothing on this site is medical advice, a prescription, or a recommendation for human use. Compounds documented here are research chemicals. Consult a qualified clinician before making any health decision.