Peptide Comparison

Selank vs Semax

A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research.

Se

Selank

Cognitive & Neurological
VS
Se

Semax

Cognitive & Neurological

Selank and Semax are both Russian-developed nootropic peptides approved there for clinical use, but they have distinct primary effects. Selank is primarily anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) with nootropic benefits, while Semax is primarily nootropic with some mood effects. Both work through BDNF and neurotransmitter modulation, making them complementary options for cognitive enhancement.

Quick Comparison

Aspect
Selank
Semax
Primary Effect
Anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) with nootropic effects
Nootropic (cognitive enhancement) with mood effects
Derived From
Tuftsin (immune peptide)
ACTH (4-10) fragment
Russian Approval
Approved for generalized anxiety disorder
Approved for stroke and cognitive disorders
BDNF Effect
Increases BDNF
Increases BDNF more significantly
Best For
Anxiety, stress, mood stabilization
Memory, focus, neuroprotection
Stimulating Effect
Calming without sedation
Mildly stimulating
Immune Effects
Immunomodulatory (from tuftsin origin)
Minimal direct immune effects
Administration
Intranasal spray or subcutaneous
Intranasal drops or spray
Typical Dose
250-500 mcg, 1-3x daily
200-600 mcg, 2-3x daily
Onset of Effects
Often noticeable within hours
Often noticeable within hours

Key Similarities

  • Both are approved for clinical use in Russia
  • Both increase BDNF and support neuroplasticity
  • Both are administered intranasally for rapid effects
  • Both do not cause dependence or withdrawal
  • Both modulate neurotransmitter systems
  • Both have good safety profiles

Key Differences

  • Selank is primarily for anxiety; Semax for cognition
  • Semax is more stimulating; Selank is calming
  • Selank has immune effects from tuftsin origin
  • Semax is approved for stroke recovery; Selank is not
  • Semax increases BDNF more significantly
  • Selank has stronger effects on GABA system

When to Choose Each

Choose Selank

Choose Selank when anxiety, stress, or mood stabilization is your primary concern. It provides cognitive benefits without being stimulating, making it ideal for those who are anxious or stress-sensitive.

Choose Semax

Choose Semax when cognitive enhancement, memory, or neuroprotection is your primary goal. Its more stimulating profile makes it better suited for focus and productivity.

Can You Stack Them?

Selank and Semax can be used together, addressing both anxiety and cognition simultaneously. Some use Semax for daytime focus and Selank for stress management, or combine both in the same protocol. They work through overlapping but distinct mechanisms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, combining them is common. Semax for cognitive enhancement and Selank for anxiety creates a balanced nootropic effect.
Selank is typically preferred for social anxiety due to its stronger anxiolytic effects and calming nature.
Semax is generally better for pure focus and concentration due to its mildly stimulating effects and stronger BDNF increase.
Neither should cause drowsiness. Selank is calming without being sedating, and Semax is mildly stimulating.

References

  1. Zozulya AA, et al. "Selank anxiolytic effects." Bull Exp Biol Med, 2001. PMID: 11687870
  2. Ashmarin IP, et al. "Semax nootropic effects." Dokl Biol Sci, 2005. PMID: 16358558

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