Semax vs Cagrilintide
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
Semax
Semax is a synthetic peptide derived from ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone). Developed in Russia as a nootropic and neuroprotective agent.
Full details →Cagrilintide
Cagrilintide is a long-acting amylin analog in development, showing promising results when combined with semaglutide (CagriSema). Amylin is a hormone co-secreted with insulin that promotes satiety.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Semax | Cagrilintide |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Enhances BDNF expression, modulates dopamine and serotonin systems, and provides neuroprotective effects. Increases attention, memory formation, and learning. | Activates amylin receptors (calcitonin receptor with RAMP proteins) to slow gastric emptying, suppress glucagon secretion, and reduce food intake through central satiety mechanisms distinct from GLP-1. |
| Typical Dosage | Intranasal: 200-600mcg 2-3 times daily. Higher doses (up to 1mg) used in clinical settings for stroke recovery. | Clinical trials: 2.4mg weekly as monotherapy or in combination with semaglutide 2.4mg (CagriSema). Optimal dosing still being determined. |
| Administration | Primarily administered intranasally. N-Acetyl Semax Amidate (NASA) is a modified version with enhanced stability and potency. | Subcutaneous injection once weekly. Currently only available in clinical trials - not yet FDA approved. |
| Side Effects | Generally well-tolerated. May cause mild irritability or hair shedding in some users. | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation similar to other incretin-based therapies. Combination with semaglutide may increase GI effects initially. |
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