Semax 101 – a nootropic for bodybuilders

Semax is a synthetic peptide derived from the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), a peptide hormone responsible for stimulating the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. However, Semax only constitutes a fraction of the ACTH amino acid chain, so its effects are vastly different.

Semax was originally developed by Soviet Union scientists for the prevention and treatment of circulatory disorders like strokes and transient ischemic attacks, as well as neurodegenerative disorders. It is still prescribed in post-Soviet states for treating the aforementioned disorders, but it is more frequently used off-label as a nootropic.

Over the last few years, Semax has grown in popularity among weightlifters due to its pain-inhibiting properties as well as its anxiolytic and brain-fog-reducing effects.

How does Semax work?

The exact mechanism of action of Semax is unclear, but it is believed to increase the expression of brain-derived neutrophic factor, which is essential for optimal memory, neurogenesis (production of new neurons) and overall cognitive function.

It also appears to interact with dopamine and serotonin receptors, which would explain the anxiolytic, mood-boosting and anti-depressant effects of this incredible peptide.

Finally, there is also evidence to suggest that it antagonizes melanocortin receptors and prevents alpha-melanocyte-inducing-hormone (α-MSH) from attaching to them and exerting its effects. This means that Semax may decrease the effectiveness of Melanotan II, which is an analogue of α-MSH (just a theory).

Benefits of Semax

Let’s get the generic benefits of Semax out of the way before delving into its properties which bodybuilders can appreciate.

As a nootropic, Semax will improve memory, reasoning, treat ADHD and anxiety, reduce symptoms of depression, improve mood, protect the brain from neurodegenerative diseases like Dementia and Alzheimer’s and decrease inflammation in the brain. Basically the same as any other synthetic nootropic drug.

The most interesting benefits of Semax in a bodybuilding context are the following:

• Decreased sensation of pain, allowing users to lift more weight and get closer to failure before giving in.
• Bye Brain Fog! Many bodybuilders experience brain fog and a decrease in cognitive function after exerting themselves at the gym. Semax can prevent or at least mitigate this.
• Prevention of heart enlargement. As you know, enhanced bodybuilders can experience left ventricle hypertrophy in the long run due to increased blood pressure. Well, there is evidence to suggest that Semax can prevent cardiac hypetrophy.
• Some users report that they feel more focused and less fatigued during their workouts, allowing them to lift harder.

Side-effects of Semax

There is almost no scientific data on the side-effects of Semax. Users report headaches, overstimulation, insomnia, anxiety, brain fog (opposite of what it should do), apathy, depersonalization and even hair loss when they take high doses of Semax.

The vast majority of users who stick to a reasonable protocol report no significant noticeable side-effects.

Types of Semax

There’s 3 types of Semax.

• Semax: The basic form, works well but isn’t that strong or long-lasting.
• N-Acetyl-Semax (NAS): The most potent and longest lasting form (The one most user prefer).
• N-Acetyl-Semax Amidate (NASA): Long lasting like NAS, but reported to be milder.

How to use it

Semax comes in injectable (subq) and intranasal formulations. I suggest you use the intranasal spray if possible, as it will make your life easier and will work just as well if not better.

Regardless of the administration route, start with 150mcg a day for a week, then 300mcg a day for another week, then 450mcg next week and finally 600mcg day from then on.

Note that the exact half-life is not known, but most users report that dosing it once a day upon waking up is enough for them to feel its effects throughout the day (after a build-up period of a few days).

If you experience side-effects at one of these doses, simply go back down to a dose you feel good at. I would not take it for more than 4 weeks at a time (there isn’t much data on its long term effects). Take a rest time equal in length to the cycle.

Can it be used “as needed”? Not really, as it can take a few days for its effects to build up. For that reason, I suggest you run Semax during periods where you need to work or study extraordinarily hard.

All in all, Semax is a tried and tested nootropic that will not only give bodybuilders a cognitive advantage, but also allow them to work out harder and for extended periods of time without causing any concerning side-effects.