Nootropic Peptides
Cognitive enhancement and brain optimization
Nootropic peptides are cognitive enhancers that improve mental performance through neurobiological mechanisms rather than stimulant effects. Unlike caffeine or amphetamines, which increase arousal and attention through catecholamine pathways, peptide nootropics work by increasing neurotrophic factors (proteins that support neuron growth and survival), modulating neurotransmitter systems, reducing neuroinflammation, and improving cerebral blood flow.
The most established nootropic peptides are semax (increases BDNF and has been used clinically in Russia since the 1990s), selank (modulates GABA and reduces anxiety while improving focus), and dihexa (a potent synaptogenic compound that enhances memory formation). These compounds represent a different approach to cognitive enhancement: rather than borrowing energy from tomorrow, they aim to improve the brain's underlying capacity.
This page collects every peptide on PeptideWiki tagged as a nootropic. Browse individual profiles for mechanisms, dosing, and safety data.
Peptides (4)
Semax
Semax is a synthetic peptide derived from a brain hormone fragment (ACTH 4-10), developed in Russia for brain-protective and cognitive-enhancing purposes. Research focuses on stroke recovery, cognitive function, and brain growth factor support.
Selank
Selank is a synthetic seven-amino-acid peptide derived from the immune protein tuftsin, developed in Russia. Research shows it has both immune-supporting and anti-anxiety properties without causing sedation or dependence.
Dihexa
Dihexa is a synthetic six-amino-acid peptide related to angiotensin IV with strong cognitive-enhancing properties. It has been proposed to be millions of times more potent than natural brain growth factors at promoting nerve cell connections. Research focuses on cognitive enhancement and neurodegenerative diseases.
PE-22-28
PE-22-28 is a synthetic seven-amino-acid peptide designed to block a specific potassium channel (TREK-1) in the brain. Research in animal models focuses on antidepressant-like effects and cognitive enhancement through brain growth factor support and increased brain cell adaptability.