Peptide Profile
Selank
A clever brain-boosting peptide derived from your immune system's natural tuftsin molecule—it calms anxiety and sharpens your mind without the drowsiness or addiction risks of traditional anti-anxiety medications.
Dose Range
250-500mcg
Frequency
Once daily
Route
Intranasal
Cycle Length
4-6 weeks
Onset
Rapid (hours to days)
Evidence
Limited
Compound Profile
Scientific & Efficacy Data
C33H57N11O9
Molecular Formula
751.9 g/mol
Molecular Weight
2-3 minutes (plasma); effects last hours due to downstream signaling
Half-Life
High intranasal absorption; near 100% subcutaneous
Bioavailability
129954-34-3
CAS #
11765600
PubChem ID ↗
Developed By · 1990
Nikolai F. Myasoedov, PhD
Institute of Molecular Genetics, Russian Academy of Sciences & V.V. Zakusov Research Institute of Pharmacology
Primary Benefits
Provides effective anxiolytic effects comparable to benzodiazepines in clinical studies—without sedation, memory impairment, or addiction risk
Supports memory, focus, and mental clarity through BDNF regulation and neuroprotective mechanisms
Modulates cytokine expression and immune balance through its tuftsin-derived structure, offering benefits beyond brain function
Amino Acid Sequence
Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro (TKPRPGP)Dosing
How much
do I take?
Starting Dose
250 mcg
Start here to assess your individual response. Most people notice subtle calming effects within the first few days. The intranasal route is most common for beginners—one spray per nostril delivers approximately 250mcg total.
Standard Dose
300-500 mcg
The most commonly used protocol. Can be taken as a single dose or split into two doses (morning and afternoon). Many users find 400mcg daily provides optimal balance of anxiolytic and cognitive effects.
Advanced Dose
500-750 mcg
Higher doses used in some research protocols. Some users split this into two daily doses. Effects don't necessarily scale linearly with dose—higher isn't always better. Monitor response carefully.
Timing
Best time to take
Morning administration works well for most people since Selank enhances focus and mental clarity during the day. Some users prefer splitting doses between morning and early afternoon. Avoid late evening doses if you notice increased mental alertness.
With food?
Selank can be taken regardless of food timing. Intranasal administration bypasses the digestive system entirely. For injections, food timing doesn't significantly affect absorption.
If stacking
Pairs excellently with Semax for comprehensive cognitive support—they work through complementary mechanisms. If stacking, start with lower doses of each. Can be combined with nootropic supplements like Alpha-GPC. Space injections from other peptides at different sites.
Adjusting Your Dose
Increase if
- +You've used the starting dose for 1-2 weeks with good tolerance but minimal effect
- +Stress levels are unusually high and you need additional support
- +Your cognitive demands have increased (exams, important projects)
Decrease if
- -You experience persistent headaches or dizziness
- -Nasal irritation becomes uncomfortable (for intranasal users)
- -You feel overly stimulated or have trouble sleeping
- -Any unexpected or uncomfortable side effects arise
Signs of right dose
- ✓Noticeable reduction in anxious thoughts without sedation
- ✓Improved ability to focus on tasks without mental fog
- ✓Better memory recall and mental clarity
- ✓Stable mood throughout the day
Dosing Calculator
Calculate Your Exact Dose
Amount to Draw
10
units
Suitability
Is this
right for me?
Best For
Anxiety Without the Fog
If traditional anti-anxiety medications leave you feeling sedated, foggy, or 'not yourself,' Selank offers a refreshing alternative. It calms anxious thoughts while keeping your mind sharp—like turning down the volume on worry without muting your brain.
Cognitive Performers
Students, professionals, and anyone facing demanding mental tasks love Selank for its dual action. It simultaneously reduces performance anxiety while enhancing memory and focus—the best of both worlds when you need to think clearly under pressure.
Stress Resilience Seekers
Chronic stress wreaks havoc on your brain. Selank helps protect against stress-induced cognitive decline by supporting BDNF levels and modulating your stress response. Think of it as building a buffer between you and life's daily pressures.
Natural Approach Enthusiasts
Derived from tuftsin—a natural peptide your own immune system produces—Selank appeals to those seeking more 'natural' solutions. It works with your body's existing systems rather than overriding them like synthetic drugs.
Consider Alternatives If
Who Should Avoid
Do not use if
- ×You are pregnant or might become pregnant—effects on fetal development are unknown
- ×You are breastfeeding—the peptide could potentially pass into breast milk
- ×You've ever had a serious allergic reaction to any peptide
- ×You're under 18—Selank is for adult use only
- ×You have a severe psychiatric condition requiring immediate medical intervention
- ×You are experiencing acute psychosis or severe depression
Use with caution if
- !You take benzodiazepines or other GABAergic medications—effects may overlap unpredictably
- !You have autoimmune conditions—immune-modulating effects may be unpredictable
- !You take blood pressure medications—monitor for any changes
- !You have a history of seizures—GABAergic effects require caution
- !You take antidepressants—potential for interaction exists
- !You have chronic nasal conditions (if using intranasal route)
Administration
How do I
use it?
Reconstitution
What you need
- •Bacteriostatic water (BAC water)—the preservative keeps it safe for multiple uses
- •Insulin syringes (29-31 gauge) if injecting
- •Alcohol swabs for cleaning vial tops
- •Nasal spray atomizer bottle (if using intranasally)
- •Your Selank powder vial
Injection
Route
Subcutaneous injection (just under the skin) or intranasal spray—nasal delivery is most popular for Selank due to convenience and rapid absorption to the brain
Best sites
- •Intranasal: One spray per nostril
- •Belly fat area (about 2 inches away from belly button)
- •Front or outer thigh (middle section)
Technique
- 1.For intranasal: Tilt head slightly back, insert tip into nostril, spray while gently inhaling
- 2.For injection: Clean site with alcohol swab and let dry completely
- 3.Pinch about an inch of skin to create a fold
- 4.Insert needle at 45-90 degree angle
- 5.Push plunger slowly and steadily, wait 5 seconds before removing
Storage
Signs of degradation
Sample Daily Schedule
Safety
Is it
safe?
Safety Profile
Selank has demonstrated a favorable safety profile across multiple Russian clinical studies spanning over two decades. In human trials comparing Selank to traditional anxiolytics like phenazepam, Selank showed comparable anti-anxiety effects with significantly better tolerability and no sedation, dependence, or memory impairment. The peptide has been approved for clinical use in Russia since the 1990s for anxiety and neurasthenia.
Most safety data comes from Russian research conducted at the Institute of Molecular Genetics and V.V. Zakusov Research Institute of Pharmacology. While multiple studies suggest excellent tolerability, large-scale Western clinical trials are still needed for regulatory approval outside Russia. Always work with a healthcare provider when using research compounds.
Common Side Effects
Experienced by some users
Nasal irritation
With intranasal use, some users experience mild stinging, dryness, or irritation in the nasal passages.
Management: Alternate nostrils between doses. Use saline spray if needed. Usually improves within a few days as you adjust.
Mild fatigue
Some users report feeling slightly tired in the first few days as their body adjusts to the peptide's calming effects.
Management: This typically resolves within 3-5 days. Ensure adequate sleep and hydration. If persistent, consider reducing dose.
Mild headache
Occasional headaches may occur, especially in the first week of use.
Management: Stay well-hydrated and ensure you're not dehydrated. These usually resolve as your body adapts.
Injection site redness
For those who inject, a small pink or red area at the injection site is normal.
Management: Rotate injection sites. Usually fades within 24-48 hours.
Less Common
- •Vivid dreams
- •Dizziness
These typically resolve with continued use or dose adjustment.
Stop and Seek Help If
- ×Any signs of allergic reaction—stop immediately and seek medical help
- ×Persistent headaches that don't improve after the first week
- ×Significant nasal problems with intranasal use that don't resolve
- ×Worsening anxiety or mood changes (paradoxical reaction)
- ×Any side effect that feels serious or really concerns you
- ×Your cycle is complete and you're entering a rest period
Selank is approved in Russia but remains a research compound in most other countries. It is not FDA-approved in the United States. Never start, stop, or change your dosing without guidance from a qualified healthcare provider. This information is for educational purposes only—not medical advice.
Interactions
With other peptides
- ✓Excellent pairing—they complement each other beautifully. Semax focuses more on cognitive stimulation while Selank provides anxiolytic support. Often used together in Russian nootropic protocols.
- ✓Safe to combine. BPC-157 focuses on gut and tissue healing, while Selank works on brain function. No known negative interactions.
- ✓Can be used in the same protocol. Different mechanisms—Epithalon works on telomeres while Selank supports cognition.
- ✓Both affect brain chemistry. DSIP promotes sleep while Selank can increase alertness. May have competing effects if taken together.
With medications
- !Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium, Klonopin) - Both affect GABA systems. Potential for enhanced sedation or unpredictable interactions. Consult your doctor before combining.
- !SSRIs/SNRIs (Prozac, Zoloft, Effexor) - Potential for interaction as both affect neurotransmitter systems. Inform your doctor and monitor for any mood changes.
- !Sleep medications (Ambien, Lunesta) - May enhance sedation even though Selank itself isn't sedating. Use caution and inform your doctor.
- ✓Blood pressure medications - Monitor blood pressure as Selank can have mild effects on cardiovascular parameters.
With supplements
- ✓L-Theanine - Complementary combination. Both promote calm focus without sedation. Can enhance overall anxiolytic effects.
- ✓Alpha-GPC - Popular nootropic stack. Alpha-GPC provides choline for acetylcholine synthesis while Selank supports broader cognitive function.
- ✓Ashwagandha - Both have adaptogenic and anxiolytic properties. May have additive calming effects—start with lower doses of each.
- ✓Caffeine - Selank may help smooth out caffeine jitters. Generally fine to combine, but monitor your individual response.
Effectiveness
Does it
work?
Evidence Level
Limited human trials
What to Expect
Days 1-3
What you might notice
- •Subtle calming effect within hours of first dose
- •Slight reduction in background anxiety
- •Possibly mild fatigue or headache as you adjust
- •Nasal tingling if using intranasal route
- •Effects may be subtle—Selank isn't dramatic like benzodiazepines
What's normal
- •Mild side effects that resolve within 24-48 hours
- •Gradual rather than dramatic changes
- •Noticing you're handling stress slightly better
What's next
- →Continue consistent daily dosing at the same time
- →Track your mood and focus in a simple journal
- →Side effects typically improve after day 3-4
Week 1-2
What you might notice
- •More noticeable reduction in anxious thoughts
- •Improved ability to focus on tasks
- •Better stress tolerance in challenging situations
- •Memory and recall may start improving
- •Side effects should be minimal or resolved
What's normal
- •Steady improvement in mood stability
- •Feeling calmer without feeling sedated
- •Clearer thinking under pressure
What's next
- →Assess whether your dose feels optimal
- →Consider adjusting up if effects are too subtle
- →Maintain consistent timing for best results
Week 3-4+
What you might notice
- •Full anxiolytic and cognitive effects established
- •Sustained improvements in focus and memory
- •Better handling of stressful situations
- •Possible immune function support (less frequent illness)
- •Benefits often persist for days after stopping a cycle
What's normal
- •Stable benefits without needing dose increases
- •Feeling mentally sharp and emotionally balanced
- •No tolerance buildup or diminishing effects
What's next
- →Complete your 4-6 week cycle as planned
- →Consider a 1-2 week break before next cycle
- →Benefits typically persist during short breaks
Signs It's Working
Anxiety and Mood Indicators
- ✓Fewer anxious or racing thoughts throughout the day
- ✓Handling stressful situations with more composure
- ✓Less tendency to catastrophize or worry
- ✓More emotional stability and resilience
- ✓Feeling calm but not sedated or 'checked out'
Cognitive Performance
- ✓Improved ability to focus on demanding tasks
- ✓Better memory recall—names, facts, recent events
- ✓Clearer thinking and mental organization
- ✓Enhanced learning of new information
- ✓Less mental fatigue during long work sessions
Overall Well-Being
- ✓Improved stress resilience in daily life
- ✓Better quality of social interactions
- ✓More motivation and mental energy
- ✓General sense of balanced well-being
Not Seeing Results?
Common reasons
- •Expecting dramatic effects—Selank is subtle and enhancing, not mind-altering like benzodiazepines
- •Dose too low—some people need 400-500mcg daily to feel significant effects
- •Inconsistent timing—best results come from daily use at consistent times
- •Poor quality peptide from unreliable source—always get third-party testing certificates (COAs)
- •Improper storage degraded the peptide—ensure your solution looks clear before using
- •Not giving it enough time—cognitive benefits often build over 2-3 weeks
Key Research
"Peptide-based Anxiolytics: The Molecular Aspects of Heptapeptide Selank Biological Activity"
Vyunova TV, Andreeva L, Shevchenko K, et al., 2018
Finding: This study revealed that Selank works as a positive allosteric modulator of GABA receptors—meaning it enhances your brain's natural calming system without directly activating it like benzodiazepines do. This explains why Selank reduces anxiety without causing sedation, dependence, or memory problems.
View Study"Selank Protects Against Ethanol-Induced Memory Impairment by Regulating BDNF Content"
Kolik LG, Nadorova AV, Antipova TA, et al., 2019
Finding: Selank prevented alcohol-induced memory problems in rats by protecting BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) levels in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. This shows Selank's potential for protecting brain function and supporting healthy memory formation.
View Study"A Comparison of the Anxiolytic Effect and Tolerability of Selank and Phenazepam"
Medvedev VE, Tereshchenko ON, Israelian AIu, et al., 2014
Finding: In patients with anxiety disorders, Selank showed comparable anxiolytic effects to phenazepam (a strong benzodiazepine) but with significantly better tolerability. Importantly, Selank's anti-anxiety effects lasted for a week after stopping the peptide, suggesting lasting benefits.
View Study"Expression of Inflammation-Related Genes in Mouse Spleen Under Tuftsin Analog Selank"
Kolomin T, Shadrina M, Andreeva L, et al., 2011
Finding: Selank significantly changed the expression of 34 genes involved in inflammation, including the important Bcl6 gene crucial for immune system development. This demonstrates Selank's immunomodulatory effects beyond just brain benefits.
View Study"Immunomodulatory Effects of Selank in Patients with Anxiety-Asthenic Disorders"
Uchakina ON, Uchakin PN, Miasoedov NF, et al., 2008
Finding: In patients with generalized anxiety disorder and neurasthenia, Selank regulated the balance of Th1/Th2 cytokines and affected IL-6 levels. The study suggests Selank could work as an immunomodulator for people with anxiety disorders, potentially helping both mind and immune system.
View StudyFrequently Asked Questions