Peptide Radar

Semax: evidence, claims & regulatory status

PR
Peptide Radar Research Desk
Independent evidence aggregator. Not a clinic, not medical advice. · Updated 2026-07-05 · How we grade evidence

Cognitive performance PCAC: Pending vote (July 23-24, 2026)

An ACTH-fragment-related heptapeptide marketed as a nootropic. FDA raised characterization, formulation, and effectiveness concerns and proposed not adding it.

Educational information only. Not medical advice, not a diagnosis, and not an offer to sell any product. These are experimental or unapproved substances; we do not provide dosage, sourcing, or use guidance. Consult a licensed clinician. We link to official sources only.

What it is

A heptapeptide related to an ACTH fragment, often sold as acetate/free-base variants and framed as a nootropic or neuro-recovery aid.

Also known as: ACTH-fragment heptapeptide

Why people search it now

Popular in nootropic and biohacker search traffic for focus and cognitive support.

Claims by evidence grade

ClaimStrongest evidence
Cerebral ischemia / neuro recoveryR Regulatory only
Focus / nootropicE Anecdote

Regulatory status

FDA raised characterization, formulation, nasal-spray/device, safety, and effectiveness concerns; the nootropic framing was not evaluated as a standalone claim. Staff proposed not adding Semax.

Known risks & evidence gaps

Nootropic claims are largely anecdotal. Formulation/device concerns for nasal sprays.

FAQ

Does Semax improve focus?

Evidence for nootropic use is anecdotal; the FDA did not evaluate that claim as supported.

Official sources

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Educational information only. Not medical advice, not a diagnosis, and not an offer to sell any product. These are experimental or unapproved substances; we do not provide dosage, sourcing, or use guidance. Consult a licensed clinician. We link to official sources only.