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Comparison

Selank vs Semax

Selank vs Semax: anxiolytic vs nootropic. Which to pick for which use case.

№ 019
Selank
NootropicEvidence: Anecdotal

Selank is a calm-but-clear nootropic. Russian-origin. Anxiolytic without the brain-fog of benzos. Intranasal spray, used as-needed for stress or focus.

Onset
80
Documentation
40
Side intensity
46
Popularity
42
№ 030
Semax
NootropicEvidence: Anecdotal

Semax is the cognitive-focus counterpart to Selank. Same Russian origin. More on the alert/focus end of the spectrum, where Selank is more on the calm/anxiolytic end. Intranasal, used during demanding work blocks.

Onset
80
Documentation
40
Side intensity
46
Popularity
55
Side-by-side
Field
Left
Right
Category
Nootropic
Nootropic
Half-life
~30 minutes (intranasal)
~30 minutes (intranasal)
Route
Intranasal spray (sub-q also used)
Intranasal spray (sub-q also used)
Schedule
1-3x daily
1-3x daily
Cycle length
2-4 weeks on, equal time off
2-4 weeks on, equal time off
Dose
Intranasal: 250-500 mcg, 1-3x daily. Sub-q: 100-250 mcg daily.
Intranasal: 250-500 mcg, 1-3x daily. Sub-q: 100-250 mcg daily.
FDA
Not FDA approved. Approved in Russia.
Not FDA approved. Approved in Russia for stroke and cognitive support.
WADA
Not listed
Not listed
Natty?
Not natty
Not natty
Prescribed
Approved in Russia for anxiety. Not available by US prescription.
Approved in Russia. Not available by US prescription.
Top side effects
Generally well tolerated; Rare: mild fatigue early
Generally well tolerated; Mild headache rarely

Which one should you pick?

Pick Selank if users with situational anxiety or cognitive load or people wanting focus support without stimulants.

Pick Semax if users wanting focus support without stimulants or demanding work blocks or studying.

Note: these two are commonly stacked together rather than chosen between. See the entries for the canonical protocol.

Full entry
№ 019 Selank →
Full entry
№ 030 Semax →