Selank
Selank (Tuftsin Analog)
Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro) derived from the endogenous immunopeptide tuftsin, developed by the Institute of Molecular Genetics in Russia. It is primarily used as an anxiolytic and nootropic agent, with research supporting its use for generalized anxiety disorder, cognitive enhancement, and stress reduction without the sedation or dependence associated with benzodiazepines.
Mechanism of Action
Selank modulates the GABAergic system by influencing GABA-A receptor activity, producing anxiolytic effects through a mechanism distinct from benzodiazepines. It also regulates expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and serotonin metabolism, while inhibiting enkephalin-degrading enzymes to prolong endogenous opioid peptide activity. Additionally, it exhibits immunomodulatory properties by influencing IL-6 and interferon expression, contributing to its stress-resilience and adaptogenic profile.
Evidence by Health Goal(13 goals)
Dosing Protocols
Morning and early afternoon to avoid potential sleep disruption
Cycle: 4-8 weeks on, 2-4 weeks off
Most common administration route; typically prepared as a 0.15% nasal solution. Each spray delivers approximately 50mcg, so 5-10 sprays per dose. Keep refrigerated.
Morning, or split morning and early afternoon
Cycle: 4-8 weeks on, 2-4 weeks off
Subcutaneous injection using insulin syringe. Reconstitute lyophilized powder with bacteriostatic water. Sterile technique required. Intranasal route is generally preferred due to ease of use.
Safety & Side Effects
Selank has a favorable safety profile in human clinical trials conducted in Russia, with no reported serious adverse events at standard doses and no demonstrated abuse potential or physical dependence. However, long-term safety data from large Western clinical trials is limited, and the compound exists in a regulatory gray area in most Western countries, being unscheduled but unapproved for medical use outside Russia and Ukraine.
Possible Side Effects
- !Mild sedation or drowsiness, particularly at higher doses or initial use
- !Transient nasal irritation or mild burning with intranasal administration
- !Headache, typically mild and self-resolving within hours
- !Slight emotional blunting or flattened affect in some users
- !Fatigue or lethargy, especially early in a cycle
- !Injection site redness or mild discomfort with subcutaneous use
- !Mild nausea reported occasionally at higher doses
Interactions
- -May potentiate the effects of benzodiazepines and other GABAergic drugs - concurrent use may cause excessive sedation
- -Additive anxiolytic and CNS-depressant effects possible with alcohol
- -May enhance effects of antidepressants (SSRIs, MAOIs) via serotonergic modulation - use caution and monitor response
- -Potential interaction with immunosuppressant medications due to immunomodulatory activity
- -May augment effects of other nootropics acting on BDNF pathways (e.g., semax, cerebrolysin) - effects unpredictable
Cost & Where to Buy
Intranasal solution (5mg/mL vials) from research peptide vendors typically costs $25-50 per vial; a monthly supply at standard dosing requires 2-4 vials. Lyophilized powder for injection may be slightly cheaper per microgram but requires bacteriostatic water and additional supplies.
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