Neuroprotective Peptide Research Protocol

Semax is a synthetic ACTH(4-10) analog that upregulates BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) and NGF (nerve growth factor) expression in the hippocampus and cortex, enhancing neuroplasticity and neuronal survival. It also modulates the immune response in neural tissue. Selank is a synthetic analog of the endogenous tetrapeptide tuftsin that provides anxiolytic effects via GABA-A receptor modulation while also enhancing BDNF expression — it provides neuroprotection partly through stress reduction. NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) supports neuronal energy metabolism, activates sirtuins (SIRT1, SIRT3) for mitochondrial protection, and is a substrate for PARP-mediated DNA repair in neurons.

Before beginning the protocol, establish baseline cognitive measurements. Recommended assessments: working memory (N-back task or digit span), processing speed (Trail Making Test Part A), executive function (Trail Making Test Part B), verbal fluency (category and phonemic fluency tasks), reaction time (simple and choice reaction time tests), and subjective cognitive assessment (questionnaire rating memory, focus, clarity, and mood). Free computerized versions of many of these tests are available through research platforms.

Literature-based research doses: Semax at 200-600 mcg intranasally, 1-2 times daily (morning and early afternoon). Selank at 250-500 mcg intranasally, 1-3 times daily. NAD+ at 50-250 mg subcutaneously, 1-3 times per week (or daily at lower doses). Semax and Selank are administered intranasally following the Intranasal Administration Protocol. NAD+ is administered subcutaneously following the Subcutaneous Injection Technique Protocol.

Create a daily schedule for the neuroprotective protocol. Morning: Semax 200-300 mcg intranasal + Selank 250 mcg intranasal (administer 5-10 minutes apart to allow each to absorb from the nasal mucosa). Early afternoon: optional second Semax dose (omit if administering NAD+ in the afternoon). NAD+: 2-3 times per week, preferably on non-consecutive days. Avoid administering stimulating compounds (Semax) in the evening as they may affect sleep onset.

Follow the Intranasal Administration Protocol for Semax and Selank. Load each peptide into its own dedicated metered-dose nasal spray device — do not share devices between compounds. Clear nasal passages before administration. Administer Semax first, wait 5-10 minutes, then administer Selank. Split each dose equally between nostrils when possible.

Follow the Subcutaneous Injection Technique Protocol for NAD+. The abdominal subcutaneous site is standard. NAD+ injections are known to cause a warm, stinging sensation at the injection site lasting 5-15 minutes — this is a normal reaction to the compound. Inject slowly over 30-60 seconds to minimize discomfort. Rotate injection sites.

Repeat the full cognitive assessment battery at weeks 4, 8, and at protocol completion (typically 12 weeks). Compare each metric against baseline values. Calculate percentage change for quantitative tests (reaction time, N-back accuracy) and absolute change for scaled assessments. Compile subjective daily/weekly observations from your research log. Note any confounding variables (sleep changes, stress, illness, dietary changes) that occurred during the study period.