STACK · ↗ Additive ladder · 4 tiers
Cognitive & Calm Focus.
Focus, calm, and the deep sleep that compounds them.
Hook facts
The science, in one line each.
Semax was originally developed by the Russian Academy of Sciences in the 1970s and is still prescribed in Russian hospitals today for stroke recovery — it can upregulate the brain's primary growth factor (BDNF) within 20 minutes of a single nasal spray.
When to skip it
Read this first.
This stack is not suited for individuals with active seizure disorders, severe psychiatric conditions requiring pharmacological management, or those currently on benzodiazepines or SSRIs without physician clearance. People seeking a quick stimulant-like energy boost should look elsewhere — this protocol works on neuroplasticity timelines, not hours. VIP is an adjunctive option for inflammation-driven brain fog and is not a standalone primary protocol.
Always cleared with your concierge before protocol start.
Why this works
The strongest evidence.
Cerebrolysin, the benchmark neurotrophic peptide mixture (BDNF/NGF/GDNF mimetic), has the deepest clinical evidence base in this class — with multiple randomised controlled trials in stroke recovery, vascular dementia, and Alzheimer's disease across Eastern European and international clinical settings. Its BDNF and NGF mimicry maps directly onto the mechanism that Semax activates endogenously: in Gusev et al (2017), Semax administered at 6000 mcg/day over two 10-day courses in stroke patients produced significantly elevated plasma BDNF, with high-BDNF responders showing measurably better functional recovery. Selank's GABA-A modulation and serotonergic signalling anchors the anxiolytic arm of the stack — a mechanism class distinct from BDNF upregulation and validated in Russian clinical literature for anxiolytic efficacy without the tolerance or dependence profile of conventional anxiolytics. Dihexa, the angiotensin-IV analogue developed at Washington State University, demonstrates approximately seven orders of magnitude greater potency than BDNF itself for hippocampal dendritic spinogenesis in preclinical models — the strongest known signal for direct synaptogenesis in any compound in this catalogue.
Additive ladder
Choose your tier.
Each tier builds on the last. Start where you are — add depth as your goals evolve.
Pure Focus
AC-Semax-NH2
Focus, memory, and verbal recall under cognitive load. The foundation of the stack for any user prioritising cognitive o…
Semax's ACTH(4-10) backbone drives BDNF upregulation in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex — approximately 1.4-fold protein increase, 3-fold mRNA increase, and 1.6-fold TrkB phosphorylation in preclinical measurements. Alongside BDNF, Semax modulates cholinergic and dopaminergic tone in attentional circuits. The AC formulation delivers this intranasally, bypassing injection while maintaining direct CNS bioavailability. Approved clinically in Russia since the 1980s for stroke recovery and dyscirculatory encephalopathy. This tier is single-axis by design: pure cognitive upregulation for users who want BDNF-driven neuroplasticity without anxiolytic or sleep components.
Who it's for
Users who want sharper focus and improved memory without anxiolytic or sleep effects. The single-axis nootropic — lowest commitment, clearest BDNF-driven effect profile.
What to expect
Sharper verbal recall and improved sustained attention within the first 1–2 cycles. BDNF elevation is measurable; most users report peak focus effects at days 7–10 of a cycle. Cognitive gains compound with repeated cycling as synaptic changes accumulate.
Calm Focus
AC-Semax-NH2
Focus, memory, and verbal recall under cognitive load. The foundation of the stack for any user prioritising cognitive o…
AC-Selank-NH2
Anxiety-driven distraction, high-stress cognitive performance, and situations where mental noise limits deep work. Ideal…
Semax activates; Selank regulates. Semax's ACTH(4-10) backbone elevates BDNF and drives cholinergic and dopaminergic tone for sharp, motivated focus. Selank's tuftsin-analogue structure modulates GABA-A receptors and serotonergic signalling — producing anxiolysis without sedation, tolerance, or withdrawal. The pairing is intentional: Semax's stimulating mechanism is balanced by Selank's inhibitory modulation, delivering focused calm rather than anxious activation. The classic stack for knowledge workers whose chief performance limiter is mental noise rather than lack of stimulation.
Who it's for
The anxious overthinker: high-performing, but with a mental noise floor that limits sustained deep work. Selank provides GABA-A-mediated calm without sedation, dulling nothing while lowering the baseline tension that derails focus.
What to expect
Selank's anxiolytic effect is typically felt within days — reduced mental noise, lower baseline tension, improved stress tolerance. Combined with Semax: focused clarity without the wired or overstimulated feeling. The pairing is specifically designed to prevent Semax's dopaminergic activation from tipping into anxious overdrive.
The Russian Triad
AC-Semax-NH2
Focus, memory, and verbal recall under cognitive load. The foundation of the stack for any user prioritising cognitive o…
AC-Selank-NH2
Anxiety-driven distraction, high-stress cognitive performance, and situations where mental noise limits deep work. Ideal…
Delta Sleep Inducing Peptide
Disrupted sleep architecture, stress-related insomnia, and anyone whose daytime cognitive performance is limited by poor…
Three peptides, three orthogonal mechanisms. Semax drives BDNF upregulation and cholinergic/dopaminergic activation for cognitive output. Selank modulates GABA-A and serotonin for calm focus without sedation. DSIP normalises the HPA axis and restores delta-wave sleep architecture — the recovery window where BDNF-driven neuroplasticity consolidates into long-term memory. These three pathways are deliberately non-redundant: each addresses a different rate-limiting factor in cognitive performance. The Triad is sold as a pre-blended protocol at multiple US peptide clinics, making it one of the few multi-compound nootropic stacks with clear clinic-side adoption as validation.
Who it's for
Users who want the complete cognitive protocol: daytime focus from Semax's BDNF activation, anxiety regulation from Selank's GABA-A modulation, and the deep-sleep recovery that lets both compounds compound their gains. Sold as a pre-blended triple stack at multiple US clinics — unusually strong evidence of clinical validation for a nootropic protocol.
What to expect
Focus and calm effects typically compound by day 7. Sleep quality improvements (depth, dream recall, morning clarity) emerge by week 2 with DSIP. Neuroplasticity gains continue to build across cycles as BDNF-driven synaptic changes accumulate in the deeper SWS window DSIP restores.
Cognitive Pro
AC-Semax-NH2
Focus, memory, and verbal recall under cognitive load. The foundation of the stack for any user prioritising cognitive o…
AC-Selank-NH2
Anxiety-driven distraction, high-stress cognitive performance, and situations where mental noise limits deep work. Ideal…
Delta Sleep Inducing Peptide
Disrupted sleep architecture, stress-related insomnia, and anyone whose daytime cognitive performance is limited by poor…
Dihexa
Maximum neurogenic depth — long-term memory formation, associative recall, and cognitive architecture building. Pro tier…
Adds Dihexa to the Triad — an angiotensin-IV analogue that activates the HGF/c-Met receptor pathway to drive dendritic spine formation directly. Preclinical research at Washington State University found Dihexa approximately seven orders of magnitude more potent than exogenous BDNF itself for hippocampal spinogenesis. The distinction matters: Semax and Selank tune synaptic transmission at existing synapses; Dihexa builds new synaptic architecture at the structural level. Oral bioavailability makes it the only compound in this stack that requires no intranasal or injection delivery. Human clinical data is still emerging, but the preclinical synaptogenic signal is the strongest in the nootropic literature. For users who want to compound Semax's BDNF upregulation with a structural substrate layer, the Pro tier provides that depth.
Who it's for
Serious users who want maximum neurogenic depth. Dihexa at the Pro tier adds structural synaptogenesis on top of the Triad's transmission-level mechanisms — building dendritic spine density and synaptic architecture that Semax and Selank then modulate. The highest-ceiling cognitive protocol in the catalogue.
What to expect
Dihexa's synaptogenic effects require consistent multi-cycle use. Expect meaningful improvements in long-term memory formation, associative recall, and learning capacity across 2–3 cycles. Triad benefits continue in parallel. Most Pro users report the most significant qualitative changes in memory architecture at the 10–12 week mark.
Compound roster
Every compound, briefed.
Each compound in this stack — what it does and where it fits.
Semax is an ACTH(4-10) analogue — a synthetic fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone stripped of its steroidogenic activity and retained entirely for its neurotrophic and neuromodulatory properties. Its primary mechanism is upregulation of BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) and NGF gene expression in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, with downstream increases in BDNF protein (~1.4-fold), BDNF mRNA (~3-fold), and TrkB phosphorylation (~1.6-fold). Alongside BDNF upregulation, Semax modulates cholinergic and dopaminergic transmission, supporting attentional circuits and working memory. The 'AC' formulation adds N-acetyl and C-amide stabilisation for intranasal delivery — bypassing first-pass metabolism and providing direct CNS bioavailability without injection. Approved in Russia since the 1980s for stroke, chronic cerebrovascular insufficiency, and optic nerve atrophy.
Best for · Focus, memory, and verbal recall under cognitive load. The foundation of the stack for any user prioritising cognitive output — especially those wanting BDNF-driven neuroplasticity without anxiolytic or sleep effects.
Selank is a synthetic analogue of tuftsin, a natural tetrapeptide fragment of immunoglobulin G. Its primary CNS mechanism involves positive modulation of GABA-A receptors, producing anxiolytic effects that parallel benzodiazepines mechanistically but without the receptor downregulation, tolerance, or dependence profile. Selank additionally influences serotonergic transmission and has been shown to upregulate expression of serotonin transporter genes, supporting stable mood and stress resilience. The 'calm without sedation' profile stems directly from this GABA-A modulation — inhibitory tone increases without the sedative downstream effects associated with full benzodiazepine agonists. Developed and approved in Russia as an anxiolytic; no known tolerance or withdrawal in clinical use at standard dosing. Intranasal delivery provides rapid CNS uptake.
Best for · Anxiety-driven distraction, high-stress cognitive performance, and situations where mental noise limits deep work. Ideal as Semax's complement — the regulating counterpart to Semax's activating mechanism.
DSIP (Delta Sleep-Inducing Peptide) is an endogenous neuropeptide that promotes slow-wave (delta-wave) sleep architecture by acting on multiple CNS targets including the HPA axis and sleep-staging circuits. Its mechanism involves normalisation of cortisol circadian rhythm, reduction of elevated baseline corticosterone, and direct modulation of sleep-stage transitions to increase time in deep, restorative SWS. DSIP does not bind GABA-A receptors in the manner of benzodiazepines or Z-drugs — it works upstream at the regulatory level, restoring natural delta-wave architecture rather than sedating. The recovery leg of the cognitive stack: the deep-sleep window is where BDNF expression consolidates and neuroplasticity gains from daytime Semax use are integrated into long-term memory traces.
Best for · Disrupted sleep architecture, stress-related insomnia, and anyone whose daytime cognitive performance is limited by poor sleep quality. Essential for users on extended Semax cycles wanting to maximise neuroplasticity consolidation during sleep.
Dihexa is an angiotensin IV analogue developed at Washington State University — a small-molecule peptidomimetic that acts as an agonist at the HGF/c-Met (hepatocyte growth factor / c-Met receptor) signalling pathway. HGF/c-Met activation drives dendritic spine formation and synaptogenesis directly, building synaptic density at a structural level rather than modulating existing transmission. In preclinical models, Dihexa demonstrated approximately seven orders of magnitude greater potency than exogenous BDNF itself for hippocampal spinogenesis — making it the most potent known neurogenic compound in this class. Oral bioavailability distinguishes it from most peptide nootropics (no injection required). Human clinical data remains limited; evidence base is primarily preclinical. Newest addition to the stack with the highest ceiling and the smallest clinical track record.
Best for · Maximum neurogenic depth — long-term memory formation, associative recall, and cognitive architecture building. Pro tier anchor for users who want structural synaptogenic support on top of Semax and Selank's transmission-level mechanisms.
VIP (Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide) is a 28-amino-acid neuropeptide with broad anti-inflammatory and neuromodulatory effects. In the CNS context, VIP's relevance is primarily for inflammation-driven cognitive impairment — brain fog resulting from neuroinflammatory burden, mast cell activation patterns, or systemic immune dysregulation rather than primary neurotransmitter deficit. VIP activates VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors, suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokine production and supporting glial homeostasis. Its mechanism of action is orthogonal to the Semax/Selank/DSIP Triad — it addresses the inflammatory substrate rather than cholinergic, dopaminergic, GABA-A, or BDNF-mediated pathways. Intranasal delivery provides direct access to CNS tissue via olfactory pathways.
Best for · Adjunctive use in inflammation-driven brain fog, post-viral cognitive impairment, or MCAS-associated cognitive symptoms. Not a standalone primary nootropic — most effective as an add-on when inflammatory aetiology is suspected.
The science
Peer-reviewed findings.
Key research findings from the compounds in this stack.
Single intranasal administration (50 mg/kg in rats) significantly altered BDNF and NGF mRNA levels in both hippocampus and frontal cortex within 20 minutes, with sustained expression changes over several hours.
SOURCE · Europe PMC / Zhurnal Vysshei Nervnoi Deyatelnosti, PMID 18756821
Meta-analysis of Russian clinical trials found Semax (12–18 mg/day intranasal) added to standard care improved neurological deficits faster after acute stroke; 83% of patients in one 69-patient series showed symptom regression mid-first week, with cognitive improvement 4–7 days earlier than controls.
SOURCE · Russian clinical trial meta-analysis (multiple centers)
Protocol
How to run it.
Frequency
AC-Semax: 400–600 mcg intranasally, twice daily (morning and midday). AC-Selank: 300–500 mcg intranasally, once to twice daily. DSIP: 100–200 mcg subcutaneously, 30–60 minutes before bed. Dihexa: 10–15 mg orally, once daily in the morning (Pro tier). VIP: 50 mcg intranasally or subcutaneously, evening (adjunctive, inflammation-driven fog patterns).
Duration
10–14 day active cycles, repeated with rest periods. DSIP can be used on focused 2-week sleep restoration cycles as needed.
Timing
Semax in the morning for focus and drive; Selank midday or before high-stress events for anxiety modulation; DSIP in the evening to restore delta-wave architecture; Dihexa with morning food to minimise GI sensitivity.
Cycling
10–14 days on, 1–3 weeks off for Semax and Selank. DSIP can be used on non-consecutive nights or in focused cycles. Dihexa is typically run in 4–8 week courses given its longer-acting synaptogenic mechanism.
Who it's for
Your profile.
This stack is designed for high-performing professionals, executives, and knowledge workers who experience brain fog, declining focus, or cognitive fatigue under sustained mental load. It suits those recovering from burnout or chronic stress-related cognitive decline who want to support neuroplasticity and long-term brain health without relying on stimulants. People who struggle with anxiety-driven distraction — where stress and mental noise prevent deep work — will benefit from the Semax/Selank pairing: Semax sharpens, Selank calms, together without sedation. Those with disrupted sleep architecture who notice poor next-day cognition will additionally benefit from DSIP's delta-wave recovery leg. Users who want maximum neurogenic depth and are comfortable with a Pro protocol can add Dihexa's synaptogenesis mechanism at the top tier.
Timeline
What to expect.
- 01
Week 1–2
Selank's anxiolytic effect is often felt within days — reduced mental noise, lower baseline tension, and improved stress tolerance. Semax users typically notice sharper focus and faster verbal recall by the end of the first cycle, consistent with early BDNF upregulation. Sleep onset and depth may improve with DSIP; early users often report more consolidated, restorative sleep by night 3–5.
- 02
Week 6
Cognitive improvements from Semax compound as BDNF-driven synaptic changes accumulate — expect meaningfully better memory retention, sustained attention on complex tasks, and reduced cognitive fatigue. Sleep quality metrics (deep sleep percentage, fewer nocturnal awakenings) typically stabilise. Mood stability and resilience to stressors solidify. Dihexa users (Pro tier) may begin noticing improvements in associative recall and learning speed as dendritic spine formation progresses.
- 03
Week 12
With consistent cycling, users report durable improvements in working memory, emotional regulation, and mental stamina. Sleep architecture normalises for most, supporting better recovery and daytime alertness. Neuroplasticity gains from Semax are partially self-sustaining after extended use, with benefits persisting through rest periods. Dihexa's structural synaptogenic effects continue to mature — associative recall and long-term memory improvements are typically most pronounced at the 12-week mark.
Stacking notes
How this combines.
Semax and Selank operate on complementary but distinct pathways: Semax's ACTH(4-10) backbone upregulates BDNF and drives cholinergic and dopaminergic tone, producing focused activation; Selank's tuftsin-fragment structure modulates GABA-A receptors and serotonergic signalling to produce anxiolysis without sedation. The pairing is intentional — Semax's stimulation is balanced by Selank's regulatory calm, giving users focused clarity rather than wired anxiety. DSIP adds a third orthogonal mechanism, acting on HPA axis normalisation and delta-wave sleep architecture during the evening window, completely non-interfering with the daytime peptides. Together the Triad addresses cognitive output, emotional regulation, and restorative sleep — the three legs the stack's clinical founders identified as interdependent. Dihexa at the Pro tier provides a structural substrate: its HGF/c-Met agonism drives dendritic spine formation and synaptic density over weeks, creating a physical architecture that Semax and Selank then modulate. VIP is available as an adjunct specifically for users with inflammation-driven brain fog patterns, acting on vasoactive intestinal signalling pathways independent of the primary Triad mechanisms. Avoid stacking with exogenous stimulants during active cycles; allow 2–4 hours between Semax and Selank dosing if sensitivity is a concern.