Cerebrolysin vs Semax
Research material comparison: purity standards, available formats, molecular data, batch COA documentation, and regulatory status. For in vitro research use only.
| Attribute | Cerebrolysin | Semax |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Nootropic / Neuroprotective | Nootropic / Neuroprotective |
| Evidence Rating | C — Phase I–II Clinical Trials | D — Preclinical |
| Clinical Status | Approved as prescription drug in 50+ countries (Austria, Russia, China, South Korea, and others). Not FDA-approved. Over 150 clinical trials with >7,000 patients. | Approved in Russia and Ukraine for stroke and cognitive disorders; not approved elsewhere |
| Mechanism | Cerebrolysin provides multimodal neuroprotection through several pathways: it enhances neurogenesis and neuroplasticity via activation of PI3K/AKT and Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) signaling, promotes synaptic remodeling through CREB phosphorylation and BDNF-like activity, inhibits calpain-mediated neuronal ... | Semax is a brain-selective heptapeptide (Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro, MW ~813.88 g/mol) that crosses the blood-brain barrier via intranasal absorption. It increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression and upregulates trkB receptors, supporting neuroplasticity and long-term memory for... |
| Half-Life | — | ~3–5 minutes; intranasal extends effective duration |
| Bioavailability | — | — |
| Molecular Weight | — | ~813.9 g/mol |
| WADA Status | Not Listed | Not Listed |
| Research Half-Life | — | ~3–5 minutes; intranasal extends effective duration |
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| Regulatory (US) | Not FDA-approved. No IND application. Cannot be legally prescribed. | Not FDA-approved. Removed from FDA Category 2 on April 15, 2026. PCAC review scheduled July 23-24, 2026. Previously classified as Category 2, prohibiting compounding. Research chemical. |
Research Material Specifications
Catalog specifications for the corresponding research materials, including batch documentation coverage.
| Specification | Cerebrolysin | Semax |
|---|---|---|
| Purity Standard | ≥98% | ≥98% |
| CAS Number | N/A | N/A |
| Molecular Formula | N/A | N/A |
| Available Formats | 60mg | 20mg, 10mg |
| Batch COAs Published | — | — |
| Stock Status | Out of stock | Out of stock |
Availability at Volta Peptides
Research Disclaimer: This comparison is provided for educational purposes only. All products are sold exclusively for in vitro research use. The information presented is based on published preclinical and clinical research and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding peptide use.
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