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Cortagen vs Semax

Research material comparison: purity standards, available formats, molecular data, batch COA documentation, and regulatory status. For in vitro research use only.

Cortagen: DSemax: D
AttributeCortagenSemax
CategoryNootropic / NeuroprotectiveNootropic / Neuroprotective
Evidence RatingD — Preclinical / Uncontrolled Russian StudiesD — Preclinical
Clinical StatusPreclinical / small open-label Russian studies only. No controlled clinical trials. Available as a dietary supplement in Russia.Approved in Russia and Ukraine for stroke and cognitive disorders; not approved elsewhere
MechanismCortagen is proposed by the Khavinson group to penetrate cells and interact with DNA regulatory sequences to normalize gene expression in cortical neurons. Preclinical studies from the developer report that cortagen promotes neuronal survival under ischemic and neurotoxic conditions, modulates neuro...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~446 g/mol~813.9 g/mol
WADA StatusNot ListedNot Listed
Research Half-Life—~3–5 minutes; intranasal extends effective duration
Key Use Cases
  • Neuroprotection Research
  • Anti-Aging Research
  • Cognitive Enhancement
Safety Concerns
  • No controlled safety studies have been conducted
  • No serious adverse effects reported in Russian open-label observations
  • Long-term safety is unknown
  • Generally favorable safety profile with uncommon mild side effects and no dependence potential
  • No significant hormonal effects despite ACTH-fragment origin — brain-selective mechanism reduces systemic side effects
  • Administered intranasally — mild nasal irritation possible; proper spray technique recommended
Contraindications
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding (no safety data)
  • No established contraindications due to absence of clinical data
  • Not recommended as a substitute for evidence-based neurological treatments
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding (insufficient data)
  • Acute psychosis (theoretical concern regarding dopaminergic enhancement)
  • Individuals with mood disorders should use caution (dopamine effects may interact with mood conditions in complex ways)
  • Combining with other dopamine-active substances warrants caution
Regulatory (US)Not FDA-approved or evaluated. Occasionally sold online as a research peptide.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.

SpecificationCortagenSemax
Purity Standard≥98%≥98%
CAS NumberN/AN/A
Molecular FormulaN/AN/A
Available Formats20mg20mg, 10mg
Batch COAs Published——
Stock StatusOut of stockOut of stock

Availability at Volta Peptides

Cortagen 20mg

≥98% purity · HPLC verified · Restocking

$99

Selank 10mg + Semax 10mg (20mg)

≥98% purity · HPLC verified · Restocking

$59

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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