Semax (10 mg Vial) Dosage Protocol
Reconstitution and dosing guide for the 10 mg Semax vial — a synthetic ACTH(4-10)-derived nootropic peptide studied for cognition, focus, and neuroprotection. Most commonly administered intranasally.
Quickstart Highlights
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide based on the ACTH(4-10) fragment, researched for nootropic and neuroprotective effects, including modulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and the enkephalin system. It is best known as an intranasal nootropic; research use is most often intranasal, with subcutaneous administration also reported. Its short plasma half-life favors splitting the daily amount across 2–3 doses.
- Composition: 10 mg Semax per vial
- Reconstitute: Add 2.0 mL bacteriostatic water → 5 mg/mL concentration
- Easy measuring: At 5 mg/mL, 1 unit (0.01 mL) on a U-100 syringe = 50 mcg
- Storage: Lyophilized: −20 °C (−4 °F); reconstituted: 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F), protected from light, use within 2–4 weeks
Dosing & Reconstitution Guide
Daily protocol — most often intranasal; the volumes below apply to either intranasal drops or subcutaneous injection
Protocol (10 mg vial, 2 mL = 5 mg/mL)
| Phase | Daily Dose | Per-dose Volume | Units (U-100) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 300 mcg, 1–2× daily | 0.06 mL | 6 units |
| Higher | 600 mcg, 1–2× daily | 0.12 mL | 12 units |
Administration: Most commonly intranasal — apply the measured volume as drops divided between the nostrils onto the nasal mucosa; it may also be given subcutaneously. Because the half-life is short (a few hours), the daily amount is usually split into 2–3 doses.
Reconstitution Steps
- Allow the vial to reach room temperature (15–20 minutes out of cold storage).
- Draw 2.0 mL bacteriostatic water with a sterile syringe.
- Inject slowly down the vial wall to avoid foaming.
- Gently swirl or roll until fully dissolved (do not shake).
- Label with date and concentration; refrigerate at 2–8 °C, protected from light.
- For intranasal use, draw the measured volume into a sterile dropper or nasal applicator instead of an injection syringe.
Result: 5 mg/mL concentration
How This Works
Semax is an analog of the ACTH(4-10) fragment but, unlike ACTH, it does not stimulate the adrenal axis. Research associates it with increased BDNF and nerve growth factor expression, modulation of the enkephalinergic system, and antioxidant and neuroprotective activity in the brain.
These actions are studied in the context of attention, memory, stress resistance, and recovery from neurological insult. Effects are generally short-lived per dose, which is why divided daily dosing is typical.
Key Administration Notes
- Most research use is intranasal; keep applicators clean and dedicated.
- Split the daily amount into 2–3 doses given the short half-life.
- If injecting, rotate sites and use new sterile syringes; dispose in a sharps container.
- Document dose, route, timing, and any response for consistency.
References
Medvedeva EV, et al. Effects of the synthetic peptide Semax on neurotrophin and gene expression in the brain. View Source
Glazova NY, et al. Semax, an ACTH(4-10) analog: neuroprotective and BDNF-related effects. View Source
⚠️ Research & Educational Purposes Only
This information is provided for research and educational purposes only. The compounds discussed are intended for laboratory research use only and are not approved for human consumption. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals for medical advice. Individual results may vary. This is not medical advice.