Selank
Anxiolytic / Nootropic Peptideapproved_foreignAlso known as: TP-7, Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro
A synthetic heptapeptide anxiolytic derived from the endogenous immunomodulatory peptide tuftsin, with an added Pro-Gly-Pro C-terminus, approved in Russia for anxiety and neurasthenia.
Overview
Selank is a synthetic analogue of the naturally occurring tetrapeptide tuftsin (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg), extended with a Pro-Gly-Pro tripeptide at the C-terminus to enhance metabolic stability. Developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences alongside Semax, Selank has been approved in Russia since 2009 as an anxiolytic and nootropic medication. It is classified as a 'peptide anxiolytic' and is used for generalized anxiety disorder, neurasthenia, and as a cognitive enhancer. Unlike benzodiazepines and other traditional anxiolytics, Selank does not produce sedation, muscle relaxation, or dependence. Its mechanism involves modulation of the GABAergic system, enhancement of BDNF expression, regulation of the balance between enkephalins, and immunomodulatory activity inherited from its parent peptide tuftsin. Selank is typically administered intranasally and has demonstrated a remarkably clean side effect profile in Russian clinical studies.
Mechanism of Action
Selank works through several interconnected mechanisms: (1) Modulates GABA-A receptor activity, enhancing inhibitory neurotransmission and producing anxiolytic effects without sedation; (2) Influences the balance between enkephalin and pro-enkephalin in the brain, affecting opioidergic tone and stress responses; (3) Increases BDNF expression in the hippocampus, supporting neuroplasticity and stress resilience; (4) Stabilizes enkephalin degradation by inhibiting enzymes that break down endogenous opioid peptides; (5) Modulates serotonin metabolism, influencing mood and anxiety; (6) Exerts immunomodulatory effects through tuftsin-derived activity, including modulation of IL-6 and T-helper cell balance; (7) The Pro-Gly-Pro extension provides resistance to enzymatic degradation, extending its biological half-life; (8) Affects gene expression of 36+ genes involved in GABAergic neurotransmission, inflammation, and immune function.
Molecular Formula
C33H57N11O9
Molecular Weight
751.87 g/mol
Sequence
Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro
Dosage Protocols
Dose Range
250mcg – 750mcg
Frequency
2-3 times daily
Route
intranasal
Cycle Length
14-30 days, with breaks of 1-2 weeks
Standard Russian clinical protocol uses 0.15% solution, 2-3 drops per nostril. Total daily dose typically 750-2000mcg. Effects may be noticeable within days but full anxiolytic benefit develops over 1-2 weeks.
Source: Russian prescribing information and clinical protocols
Side Effects
| Effect | Severity |
|---|---|
| Nasal irritation | mild |
| Fatigue | mild |
| Headache | mild |
| Allergic reactions | mild |
Pros & Cons
Anxiolytic effects without sedation, cognitive impairment, or addiction potential — unlike benzodiazepines
Approved medication in Russia with over a decade of clinical use and safety data
Dual anxiolytic and nootropic properties — reduces anxiety while improving cognitive function
Immunomodulatory properties inherited from tuftsin provide additional health benefits
Extremely mild side effect profile with no reported dependence or withdrawal
Convenient intranasal delivery with rapid onset of action
Most clinical evidence is from Russian-language publications with limited Western peer review
Not FDA-approved, limiting availability to research chemical sources
Cycling is recommended; long-term continuous use is not well-studied
May be less potent than pharmaceutical anxiolytics for severe anxiety disorders
Research Studies
Legal Status
Approved in Russia as a prescription anxiolytic medication. Not FDA-approved. Available as a research chemical in the US and Europe. Not specifically scheduled in most Western countries.
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