Selank
NootropicAlso known as: TP-7, Tuftsin analog
Selank is approved as a medication in Russia and Ukraine. It is not approved by the FDA. For research and informational purposes only.
Overview
Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from tuftsin, an endogenous immunomodulatory peptide. Developed in Russia by the Institute of Molecular Genetics, it has been studied extensively for anxiolytic, nootropic, and immunomodulatory effects. It is registered as a medication in Russia and Ukraine.
Research Summary
Selank modulates GABA-A receptors and influences BDNF expression, producing anxiolytic effects comparable to benzodiazepines without sedation or dependence. Russian clinical studies report improvements in generalized anxiety disorder, cognitive performance, and mood stability. It also appears to modulate T-helper cell ratios and interferon production.
Dosing Range
low
250mcg
moderate
500mcg
high
1000mcg
Units: mcg · Frequency: 1–2x daily
Dosing ranges are aggregated from preclinical research and community protocols. Not medical dosing guidance.
Administration Routes
Reconstitution Notes
Typically supplied as a solution for intranasal use. Injectable versions reconstituted with bacteriostatic water. Refrigerate — degraded by room temperature over extended periods.Step-by-step reconstitution guide →
Reported Side Effects
- Mild sedation at high doses
- Nasal irritation (intranasal route)
- Generally very well-tolerated
- No reported dependence or withdrawal
Research Papers
Community Experiences
Aggregated from public forums. Anecdotal — not clinical evidence.
Community logs on selank for anxiety, focus, and cognitive performance.
View original threadOverview
Selank was developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics in Moscow as a stable synthetic analog of tuftsin (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg). The addition of a Pro-Gly-Pro fragment significantly extends its stability and CNS activity. It remains one of the most studied nootropic peptides with actual clinical trial data.
Mechanism
Selank's anxiolytic effects appear to operate through multiple pathways:
- GABA-A modulation: Enhances inhibitory neurotransmission without direct agonism (no tolerance/withdrawal)
- BDNF upregulation: Promotes neuronal growth factor expression
- Enkephalin metabolism: Slows breakdown of endogenous opioid peptides
- Serotonin modulation: Influences 5-HT receptor expression
vs. Semax
Selank and Semax are often discussed together as the two primary Russian nootropic peptides:
- Selank: Anxiolytic-dominant, calming focus, immune modulation
- Semax: Stimulating, BDNF-heavy, more energizing cognitive effect
Many researchers use them at different times — Semax for demanding cognitive tasks, Selank for anxiety-heavy periods or winding down.
Intranasal Delivery
The nasal route is preferred because it allows direct absorption across the olfactory epithelium into the CNS, bypassing blood-brain barrier limitations. The bioavailability via this route is significantly higher than subcutaneous for CNS-targeted effects.
Want to calculate your dose? Use the dosing calculator →