Semax vs Setmelanotide
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 →Setmelanotide
Setmelanotide (Imcivree) is an FDA-approved MC4R agonist for chronic weight management in patients with obesity due to specific genetic conditions (POMC, PCSK1, or LEPR deficiency).
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Semax | Setmelanotide |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Enhances BDNF expression, modulates dopamine and serotonin systems, and provides neuroprotective effects. Increases attention, memory formation, and learning. | Selective agonist of melanocortin 4 receptors (MC4R) in the hypothalamus, restoring the satiety signaling pathway that is disrupted in certain genetic obesity syndromes. |
| Typical Dosage | Intranasal: 200-600mcg 2-3 times daily. Higher doses (up to 1mg) used in clinical settings for stroke recovery. | Adults: Start 2mg daily, titrate based on tolerability up to 3mg daily. Pediatrics (6+): Weight-based dosing starting at 1mg daily. |
| Administration | Primarily administered intranasally. N-Acetyl Semax Amidate (NASA) is a modified version with enhanced stability and potency. | Subcutaneous injection once daily. Requires genetic testing to confirm eligible mutations before prescribing. |
| Side Effects | Generally well-tolerated. May cause mild irritability or hair shedding in some users. | Injection site reactions, skin hyperpigmentation, spontaneous penile erections, depression, and suicidal ideation (boxed warning). GI effects less common than GLP-1s. |
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