🚨 CRITICAL WARNING: This protocol uses Semax and Selank. Both are Schedule 4 Prescription-Only medicines in Australia. Developed by the Russian Academy of Sciences, they are regulatory peptides used originally for stroke recovery (Semax) and anxiety disorders (Selank). They are unique because they are typically administered via Nasal Spray, crossing the blood-brain barrier directly to modulate neurotransmitters.
What is the “Russian” Nootropic Protocol?
If you want to work for 12 hours straight without feeling “wired” or “jittery,” this is the protocol.
Most “smart drugs” (like Adderall or heavy Caffeine) work by simply blasting your brain with stimulation. This works, but it often comes with anxiety, jitters, and a crash. The Russian Nootropic Protocol takes a different approach. It aims to create a “Flow State”—a psychological state where you are intensely focused but perfectly calm.
- Semax is a derivative of ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic Hormone). It rapidly increases BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) and dopamine levels, sharpening focus and memory.
- Selank is a synthetic analogue of Tuftsin (an immune peptide). It acts as a robust anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) agent that stabilizes enkephalins (natural opiates) in the brain, making you feel calm and resilient to stress.
The Science for Dummies: The “Volume Knob” Analogy
Think of your brain like a stereo system playing music (your thoughts).
1. Semax is the “Volume”
When you are tired or brain-fogged, the music is too quiet. You can’t hear the details. Semax turns the volume up. It increases the electrical activity in the brain, making thoughts faster, clearer, and easier to access. It wakes up the hardware.
2. Selank is the “Noise Canceling”
If you just turn the volume up (caffeine/stimulants), you often get “static” or distortion—this is anxiety and distraction. Selank acts like a noise-canceling filter. It removes the background hiss (stress/worry), leaving only the clear, crisp music.
The Synergy: Semax gives you the energy to work. Selank ensures that energy isn’t wasted on stressing out. The result is “Relaxed Wakefulness,” the perfect state for complex problem solving.
Who Is Talking About This Protocol?
- Ben Greenfield: Frequently lists Semax as his “desert island” nootropic. He prefers it over traditional stimulants because it lacks the “edginess” of caffeine and seems to improve verbal fluency (the ability to find words quickly).
- Dr. Andrew Huberman: Has discussed the role of BDNF in neuroplasticity (learning). While he is cautious about synthetic peptides, he highlights that agents which increase BDNF (like Semax) theoretically accelerate the speed at which the brain learns new skills.
- The “Nootropics Depot” Community: In biohacking forums, this specific combination is often rated higher than Modafinil for daily productivity because it does not interfere with sleep quality as severely.
The Strategy: How It Is Used
Unlike injectable peptides, these are convenient nasal sprays.
The “9 AM Flow” Strategy
- The Mix: Purchased as two separate nasal spray bottles.
- The Dose:
- Semax (0.1% or 1%): 2 sprays in each nostril (approx. 400-600mcg).
- Selank (0.15%): 2 sprays in each nostril (approx. 400-600mcg).
- The Timing: Take them together immediately before starting deep work (e.g., 9:00 AM).
- Re-Dosing: You can take a “booster” dose at 1:00 PM if the effects fade. Avoid taking Semax after 4:00 PM as it may keep you awake.
The Cycle
The brain builds tolerance to these peptides, but slowly.
- Schedule: 5 days on, 2 days off (Weekends off).
- Duration: 4 weeks on, 2 weeks off. This resets the receptors.
Necessary “Fuel”: Potentiation
These peptides turn on the engine, but you still need fuel.
- L-Tyrosine: 500mg. This is the precursor to Dopamine. Semax burns through dopamine faster; Tyrosine refills the tank.
- Alpha-GPC (Choline): 300mg. Essential for Acetylcholine production (memory).
- Hydration: Brain activity is water-intensive. Headaches on Semax are almost always due to dehydration.
Safety & Troubleshooting
The “Hair Loss” Rumor There are anecdotal reports in forums that Semax exacerbates hair loss.
- The Reality: Semax increases BDNF, and some studies suggest extremely high BDNF levels can shift hair follicles into the shedding phase. This is rare and usually reversible, but if you are prone to male pattern baldness, monitor your hairline.
Over-Stimulation If you combine this stack with 3 espressos, you might feel manic.
- The Fix: Reduce your caffeine intake. Semax potentiates (amplifies) the effects of stimulants. You will likely need only half your usual coffee.
Storage is Key These peptides are fragile.
- The Rule: Keep the bottles in the fridge at all times. If you leave them in a hot car for a day, they break down into useless amino acids.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I inject them instead?
Yes. Subcutaneous injection is more potent and cheaper (per mg). However, most users prefer the nasal spray because it is socially acceptable to use at a desk and the nose-to-brain delivery path is highly effective for nootropics.
Is it addictive?
No. Unlike amphetamines (Adderall), Semax and Selank do not cause a massive dopamine flood that leads to dependency. You do not get “withdrawals” when you stop; you just return to your normal baseline focus.
Can I use Selank alone for sleep?
Yes. Many users keep a bottle of Selank on their nightstand. If they wake up at 3 AM with racing thoughts, 2 sprays of Selank can calm the mind enough to fall back asleep without the grogginess of sleeping pills.
Will I fail a drug test?
Probably Not. As of 2024, Semax and Selank are not explicitly listed on the WADA Prohibited List. However, “peptide hormones” is a broad category. Use with caution in professional sports, but for corporate athletes, it is generally considered safe.