CognitiveEmerging ResearchResearch Only

Selank

Also known as: TP-7, Selanc

Selank is a heptapeptide developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences. It is a synthetic derivative of tuftsin (a naturally occurring tetrapeptide) with an additional Gly-Pro-Gly-Pro sequence that enhances its metabolic stability. Selank has been approved in Russia as an anxiolytic medication and has demonstrated cognitive-enhancing effects in clinical studies. It modulates the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and influences serotonergic, dopaminergic, and GABAergic neurotransmitter systems without sedation or dependence potential. It also exhibits immunomodulatory effects through its tuftsin-related activity.

Research Score5/10

Limited clinical data

Safety Score9/10

Well-tolerated with minimal side effects

How It Works

Selank modulates GABAergic and serotonergic systems, enhances BDNF expression, and influences T-helper cytokine balance for anxiolytic and nootropic effects without sedation.

Key Benefits

  • Reduces anxiety without sedation or addiction potential
  • Enhances cognitive function and memory
  • Increases BDNF expression in the brain
  • Modulates serotonin and dopamine systems
  • Supports immune function through tuftsin pathway
  • May improve focus and mental clarity

Who May Benefit

  • Individuals with anxiety disorders
  • People seeking cognitive enhancement without stimulants
  • Those wanting non-addictive anxiolytic alternatives
  • Individuals wanting immune support with mental clarity

Dosage & Administration

Typical Dosage
Intranasally or subcutaneously, one to three times daily
Cycle Length
2-4 weeks, with breaks between cycles
Administration Routes
nasalsubcutaneous

Expected Timeline

Anxiolytic effects within days. Cognitive benefits over 2-4 weeks. Standard course is 14 days.

Safety Information

Possible Side Effects

Mild nasal irritation (with intranasal use)Fatigue (rare)Mild headache (infrequent)Dizziness

Contraindications

Pregnancy or breastfeedingKnown hypersensitivity to selank or tuftsinActive autoimmune conditions (due to immunomodulatory effects)
Dr. Patrick Taylor, MD

Dr. Taylor's 2 Cents

Selank is my favorite anxiolytic peptide because it provides meaningful anxiety relief without any of the downsides of benzodiazepines — no sedation, no dependence, no cognitive impairment. The Russian clinical data is solid. I use it for patients with generalized anxiety, brain fog, and stress-related cognitive issues. The nasal spray format makes it extremely convenient. I often combine it with other peptides in my cognitive protocols.

Discuss with Dr. Taylor →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Selank used for?
Anti-anxiety and cognitive enhancement. Approved in Russia for anxiety disorders.
How does it reduce anxiety?
Modulates GABA and serotonin and increases BDNF. No sedation or addiction.
How is it administered?
Typically as a nasal spray for rapid onset. Subcutaneous injection also used.
Is Selank addictive?
No addictive properties. Does not produce dependence or withdrawal.
What are the side effects?
Very well tolerated. Possible mild nasal irritation and occasional fatigue.

Published Research

1

Efficacy and possible mechanisms of action of a new peptide anxiolytic selank in the therapy of generalized anxiety disorders and neurasthenia

Zozulia AA, Neznamov GG, Siuniakov TS, et al. · Zhurnal Nevrologii i Psikhiatrii Imeni S.S. Korsakova (2008)

Key Finding: In 62 patients with GAD and neurasthenia, selank's anxiolytic effects were comparable to medazepam but additionally demonstrated antiasthenic effects without benzodiazepine side effects.

2

The optimizing action of the synthetic peptide Selank on a conditioned active avoidance reflex in rats

Kozlovskii II, Danchev ND · Neuroscience and Behavioral Physiology (2003)

Key Finding: Selank significantly activated the learning process in rats with initially poor learning ability, with effects apparent after the first dose, demonstrating nootropic properties comparable to piracetam.

Want personalized guidance?

Consult with Dr. Patrick Taylor for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized protocol.

Book a Consultation

Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any peptide protocol.