Approved outside the US

Semax Dosage Chart

Intranasal protocol and 10–14 day course pattern for the Russian-approved cognitive and neuroprotective peptide.

Written by
Megan Williams
Editor-in-Chief
Reviewed by
Brian Williams
Co-founder & Research Editor
Last updated
April 25, 2026

Educational tool — not medical advice. This calculator provides estimates based on population averages and published trial data. Outputs are not clinical recommendations and do not replace evaluation by a qualified prescriber. Do not start, stop, or change a peptide therapy based on the result of this tool.

Semax is a synthetic analog of ACTH (4-10) developed at Russia's Institute of Molecular Genetics. It is approved in Russia for stroke recovery, cognitive impairment, and as a nootropic. Mechanism includes BDNF upregulation and modulation of dopaminergic and serotonergic pathways. It is not FDA-approved in the US.

Semax at a Glance

Typical dose200–600 mcg per nostril (total 400–1,200 mcg per dose)
Frequency2–3× per day intranasal
Course length10–14 days, repeated as needed
RouteIntranasal spray
FDA statusNot FDA-approved (US). Russian-approved for stroke and cognitive indications.
Source qualityRussian clinical trial data; limited Western validation.

Semax Dosing by Use Case

Commonly cited protocols vary by what Semax is being used for. The table below summarizes typical ranges reported in clinical practice and published literature.

Use caseTypical doseFrequencyCycle lengthNotes
Cognitive support / nootropic400–600 mcg total per dose2× daily intranasal10–14 days, may repeat after 2 weeks offMost common off-label use case. Pulse-cycle rather than continuous use.
Stroke recovery (Russian-labeled)Higher concentrations per Russian protocolMultiple times daily under supervision10–14 days post-strokeRussian acute-care protocol — administered in clinical settings only.
ADHD / focus support (off-label)400 mcg total per doseMorning + midday intranasal2 weeks on, 2 weeks offOff-label use; not validated in Western trials.

Stacking Semax

Semax and Selank are sometimes alternated for combined nootropic + anxiolytic support. Co-administration is less common than alternating cycles.

Safety profile

Semax has a clean published Russian safety profile but limited Western validation.

  • Common side effects: mild nasal irritation; rare reports of headache or transient blood pressure changes.
  • Does not produce sedation or stimulant-like dependence in published data.
  • Long-term continuous use beyond labeled course lengths is not well-studied.
  • Not FDA-approved.
Do not use if
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • Active sinusitis or nasal pathology (avoid intranasal route)
  • Bipolar disorder or active mania (theoretical concern with dopaminergic modulation)

Semax Dosing FAQ

Acute cognitive effects are reported within hours of dosing in published Russian studies. The standard protocol is a 10–14 day course rather than continuous daily use.

No published evidence indicates dependence or withdrawal. The pulsed-course pattern (10–14 days followed by a break) further limits any tolerance development.

Sources

Related Dosage Charts

Want the full Semax guide?

Mechanism, clinical evidence, side effects, costs, and provider listings for Semax therapy.

See Semax guide

Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any peptide therapy treatment.