SELANK

What It Is

Selank is a synthetic peptide derived from tuftsin, a naturally occurring molecule in your immune system. It was developed by the Institute of Molecular Genetics at the Russian Academy of Sciences as an alternative to benzodiazepines for treating anxiety. Unlike traditional anti-anxiety medications, Selank reduces anxiety without causing sedation, cognitive impairment, or dependence.

The peptide has been approved as a prescription medication in Russia since the early 2000s, where it is used to treat generalized anxiety disorder, neurasthenia (chronic fatigue with anxiety), and stress-related conditions. In the United States, it remains a research compound without FDA approval.

What makes Selank interesting is that it works through multiple pathways. It modulates GABA (the brain's primary calming neurotransmitter), influences serotonin and dopamine, supports immune function, and increases BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor). This gives it a unique profile: anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), nootropic (cognitive enhancing), and immunomodulatory all in one compound.

For people dealing with chronic stress, anxiety, or cognitive fatigue, Selank offers a different approach than stimulants or traditional pharmaceuticals. It calms without sedating and sharpens focus without causing jitteriness.

How It Works

To understand why Selank works, you need to understand the GABAergic system. GABA is your brain's main inhibitory neurotransmitter. When GABA binds to its receptors, it slows down neuronal activity and creates a calming effect. This is the same system that benzodiazepines like Xanax and Valium target.

Selank works as a positive allosteric modulator of GABA receptors. This means it does not bind directly to the GABA receptor the way benzodiazepines do. Instead, it changes the shape of the receptor in a way that makes GABA bind more effectively. The result is enhanced inhibitory signaling without the direct receptor activation that causes sedation and dependence.

Clinical studies have shown that Selank produces anxiolytic effects comparable to benzodiazepines, but without the sedation, memory impairment, or addiction potential. The anxiolytic effect has been shown to persist for up to a week after discontinuing the peptide, suggesting it helps restore balance in the stress response system rather than just masking symptoms.

Beyond GABA, Selank also:

• Increases BDNF in the hippocampus and cortex, supporting memory formation and neuroplasticity

• Modulates serotonin metabolism, contributing to mood stability

• Regulates dopamine and norepinephrine, supporting focus and motivation

• Influences enkephalin activity, which may explain some of its anti-anxiety effects

• Retains immunomodulatory properties from its parent molecule tuftsin

This multi-pathway action is why Selank can reduce anxiety while simultaneously improving cognitive performance. Most anxiolytics impair cognition. Selank does the opposite.

Benefits

Anxiety Reduction Without Sedation

The primary benefit is anxiety relief that does not compromise your ability to function. In clinical trials comparing Selank to phenazepam (a benzodiazepine), Selank produced equivalent anxiety reduction without the sedative effects. You can use it during the day without feeling drowsy or mentally foggy.

Cognitive Enhancement

Selank functions as a nootropic, improving memory, attention, and information processing. Animal studies show enhanced learning and memory formation, and human users report improved focus, particularly under stress. The BDNF increase supports synaptic plasticity, which is the foundation of learning and memory.

Stress Resilience

By modulating the HPA axis (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis), Selank helps regulate your stress response. With continued use, people report feeling more resilient to daily stressors rather than reactive. This is different from just suppressing anxiety symptoms.

No Dependence or Withdrawal

Unlike benzodiazepines, Selank does not cause physical dependence or withdrawal symptoms. You can use it as needed or in cycles without worrying about becoming dependent on it to function.

Immune Support

Selank retains some immunomodulatory properties from tuftsin. Research shows it can influence cytokine expression and may have antiviral properties. This is a secondary benefit, but relevant for people dealing with chronic stress, which typically suppresses immune function.

What the Science Shows

Selank has more human clinical data than most research peptides, primarily from Russian studies.

Zozulia et al. (2008), Zhurnal Nevrologii i Psikhiatrii

This study compared Selank to medazepam (a benzodiazepine) in 62 patients with generalized anxiety disorder and neurasthenia. Both groups showed similar reductions in anxiety on the Hamilton and Zung scales. However, Selank also produced anti-asthenic (energy-boosting) and psychostimulant effects that the benzodiazepine did not. The researchers found that patients with GAD had decreased enkephalin levels, and Selank treatment increased these levels while improving symptoms.

Seredenin et al. (2014), Zhurnal Nevrologii i Psikhiatrii

A comparative study of Selank versus phenazepam in 60 patients with anxiety disorders. Selankproduced pronounced anxiolytic and mild nootropic effects. Notably, the anxiolytic effect lasted for a week after the last dose of the peptide. Selank also improved quality of life scores without the cognitive side effects associated with phenazepam.

Filatova et al. (2017), Frontiers in Pharmacology

This study examined how Selank affects gene expression related to GABAergic neurotransmission. Researchers found that Selank administration significantly altered the expression of 45 genes involved in neurotransmission within one hour. The changes were positively correlated with those produced by GABA itself, supporting the hypothesis that Selankworks through GABAergic mechanisms.

Kasian et al. (2019), Current Protein and Peptide Science

Radioligand binding studies showed that Selank acts as a positive allosteric modulator of GABA receptors. It can compete with diazepam for binding sites but produces different effects, suggesting it binds to a related but distinct site on the GABA receptor complex.

Dosing Protocol

Selank can be administered either intranasally or subcutaneously. In Russia, it is primarily used as a nasal spray. In the research community, subcutaneous injection is common because it provides more consistent dosing.

Understanding the Routes

Intranasal administration allows rapid absorption directly into the brain, bypassing the blood-brain barrier to some degree. This is the traditional route used in Russian clinical practice. Subcutaneous injection provides systemic delivery with predictable absorption. Both routes are effective, and the choice often comes down to personal preference and convenience.

Anxiolytic and Nootropic Protocol

For general anxiety reduction and cognitive support:

• Dose: 300 to 500 mcg daily

• Frequency: Once daily

• Route: Subcutaneous or intranasal

• Timing: Morning or early afternoon

• Cycle: 10 to 14 days on, 7 to 14 days off

• Rationale: This aligns with Russian clinical protocols and provides the anxiolytic and nootropic benefits without building tolerance

Acute Stress or Demanding Periods

For short-term use during high-stress situations:

• Dose: 200 to 400 mcg

• Frequency: Once or twice daily as needed

• Duration: Use during the stressful period, then discontinue

• Rationale: Selank works quickly (within hours to days) and does not require loading

Stacking with Semax

Selank and Semax are commonly used together. Selank provides the calming, anxiolytic effect while Semax provides stimulating, focus-enhancing effects. The combination produces calm focus without sedation or jitteriness.

• Selank: 200 to 300 mcg morning

• Semax: 200 to 400 mcg morning or early afternoon

• Rationale: The compounds work through different mechanisms and complement each other

Why Cycling Matters

While Selank does not cause dependence, cycling helps maintain sensitivity and allows you to assess your baseline. The anxiolytic effects often persist after discontinuation, so continuous use is not necessary for sustained benefit.

Draw Volumes by Vial Size

Zesty Rat Research offers Selank in 10 mg vials.

10 mg Vial (2 mL reconstitution = 5 mg/mL)

Dose        Volume      Units on Syringe

──────────────────────────────────────────

200 mcg     0.04 mL     4 units

300 mcg     0.06 mL     6 units

400 mcg     0.08 mL     8 units

500 mcg     0.10 mL     10 units

Vial duration at 300 mcg daily: 33 days

Vial duration at 500 mcg daily: 20 days

10 mg Vial (3 mL reconstitution = 3.33 mg/mL)

Dose        Volume      Units on Syringe

──────────────────────────────────────────

200 mcg     0.06 mL     6 units

300 mcg     0.09 mL     9 units

400 mcg     0.12 mL     12 units

500 mcg     0.15 mL     15 units

Vial duration at 300 mcg daily: 33 days

Vial duration at 500 mcg daily: 20 days

The 3 mL reconstitution provides slightly easier measurements for lower doses.

Reconstitution Instructions

1. Remove the flip-off cap from the vial and wipe the rubber stopper with an alcohol swab

2. Draw your chosen volume of bacteriostatic water into a sterile syringe (2 mL or 3 mL)

3. Insert the needle through the rubber stopper at an angle

4. Inject the water slowly down the inside wall of the vial to avoid foaming

5. Gently swirl or roll the vial until the powder is fully dissolved (do not shake vigorously)

6. The solution should be clear and colorless

7. Label the vial with the reconstitution date and concentration

8. Store in the refrigerator at 36 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit (2 to 8 degrees Celsius)

9. Use within 30 days for optimal potency

Side Effects and Cautions

Selank has an excellent safety profile in clinical studies. Most reported effects are mild and transient.

Common Effects:

• Mild nasal irritation (with intranasal use)

• Transient headache (occasional)

• Mild fatigue in some users (uncommon)

What Selank Does NOT Cause:

• Sedation or drowsiness

• Cognitive impairment or memory problems

• Physical dependence or withdrawal

• Tolerance requiring dose increases

Clinical Trial Safety Data:

In the comparative studies with benzodiazepines, Selank showed no significant adverse effects. The researchers specifically noted the absence of sedation, addiction potential, and cognitive side effects that are common with traditional anxiolytics.

Considerations:

• Effects on pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown (avoid use)

• Long-term safety data beyond clinical trial periods is limited

• Individual responses vary; some people respond better to intranasal versus subcutaneous administration

Who Should Avoid or Use With Care

Avoid if:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding (not studied, unknown risks)

• Currently taking benzodiazepines or other GABAergic medications (potential interaction)

• History of allergic reactions to peptides

Use with caution if:

• Taking medications that affect serotonin (SSRIs, SNRIs) as Selank also modulates serotonin

• History of autoimmune conditions (due to immunomodulatory effects)

• Currently using other nootropics or cognitive enhancers (start with lower doses)

Not a replacement for:

• Professional mental health treatment for severe anxiety or depression

• Proper sleep, nutrition, and stress management

• Medical evaluation of underlying conditions causing anxiety

Success Tips

Start Low

Begin with 200 to 300 mcg daily to assess your response. Some people are sensitive to GABAergic compounds and may notice effects at lower doses. You can increase to 400 to 500 mcg if needed.

Morning Dosing

Take Selank in the morning or early afternoon. While it does not cause sedation for most people, some individuals notice a relaxing effect that could interfere with tasks requiring high alertness if taken too late.

Combine With Lifestyle Practices

Selank works best as part of a broader stress management approach. The peptide helps regulate your stress response, but you still need to address the sources of stress in your life. Pair it with sleep optimization, exercise, and mindfulness practices for the best results.

Consider the Semax Stack

If you need both anxiety reduction and cognitive enhancement, the Selank plus Semax combination is well-established. Selank provides the calm baseline while Semax sharpens focus and attention.

Track Your Response

Keep notes on your anxiety levels, focus, and overall mood. The effects of Selank can be subtle at first but build over time. Tracking helps you identify the optimal dose and timing for your needs.

Need Guidance on Stress Management and Performance?

Peptides work best when your foundation is solid. If you want more information on training and nutrition, please contact us at:  turawellness.com

Injection Technique

For subcutaneous administration:

1. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water

2. Gather supplies: reconstituted vial, alcohol swabs, insulin syringe, sharps container

3. Clean the vial stopper with an alcohol swab and allow to air dry

4. Draw the calculated dose into a sterile insulin syringe

5. Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and allow to air dry

6. Pinch a fold of skin at the injection site

7. Insert the needle at a 45 to 90 degree angle into subcutaneous tissue

8. Do not aspirate for subcutaneous injections

9. Inject slowly and steadily

10. Withdraw the needle and apply light pressure if needed

11. Dispose of the syringe immediately in a sharps container

12. Rotate injection sites with each dose (abdomen, thighs, upper arms)

For intranasal administration:

1. Reconstitute the vial as above

2. Draw the dose into a syringe

3. Remove the needle

4. Tilt head back slightly

5. Slowly drip the solution into one nostril

6. Sniff gently to draw the solution into the nasal passages

7. Repeat for the other nostril if splitting the dose

8. Avoid blowing your nose for 10 to 15 minutes

Storage and Handling

Before Reconstitution:

• Store lyophilized (powder) vials in the freezer at minus 4 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 20 degrees Celsius)

• Can also be stored in the refrigerator at 36 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit for shorter periods

• Protect from light and moisture

• Do not use past expiration date

After Reconstitution:

• Refrigerate at 36 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit (2 to 8 degrees Celsius)

• Use within 30 days for optimal potency

• Do not freeze after reconstitution

• Keep the stopper clean between uses

• If solution becomes cloudy or contains particles, discard and use a new vial

Comparison to Similar Compounds

Compound        Primary Effect         Mechanism                Sedation    Dependence

────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────

Selank          Anxiolytic/Nootropic   GABA modulation          None        None

Semax           Nootropic/Focus        BDNF/Dopamine            None        None

Diazepam        Anxiolytic             Direct GABA agonist      Yes         High

Phenibut        Anxiolytic             GABA-B agonist           Yes         Moderate

L-Theanine      Calming                Glutamate/GABA           Mild        None

Selank occupies a unique position: it provides benzodiazepine-level anxiety relief through a different mechanism that avoids the downsides of direct GABA receptor activation. Semax is its natural complement for cognitive enhancement without the calming effect.

Legal Status

Russia and CIS Countries: Approved prescription medication for anxiety and neurasthenia.

United States: Not FDA approved. Available as a research compound. Not scheduled as a controlled substance.

WADA Status: Not currently on the prohibited list, but athletes should verify current regulations before use.

Regulatory Note: Selank has decades of clinical use in Russia but has not gone through the FDA approval process. This does not mean it is unsafe; it means the regulatory pathway has not been pursued in the US market.

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly does Selank work?

Most people notice effects within one to three days. The anxiolytic effect builds over the first week of use. Unlike benzodiazepines, which work within 30 minutes, Selank produces a more gradual, sustained effect.

Can I use Selank daily?

Yes, but cycling is recommended. A typical approach is 10 to 14 days on followed by 7 to 14 days off. The anxiolytic effects often persist during the off period, and cycling helps maintain sensitivity.

Is Selank better than Semax?

They serve different purposes. Selank is primarily anxiolytic with cognitive benefits. Semax is primarily nootropic with mood-stabilizing benefits. Many people use both together for complementary effects.

Will Selank make me tired?

No. Unlike benzodiazepines, Selank does not cause sedation. Some users report a sense of calm that could be mistaken for tiredness, but it does not impair alertness or function.

Can I take Selank with other medications?

Use caution with other GABAergic compounds (benzodiazepines, phenibut, alcohol) as effects may be additive. Consult a healthcare provider if you take prescription medications for anxiety or depression.

Nasal spray or injection?

Both work. Nasal administration is more convenient and provides rapid brain delivery. Subcutaneous injection provides more consistent dosing. Try both and see which you prefer.

Product Source

Research Grade Selank at turawellness.com

Disclaimer

This guide provides educational information about Selank based on published scientific literature and clinical data from Russian studies. This is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Selank is not FDA approved in the United States. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals before using any compound or medication, especially if you have anxiety or mood disorders.

References

1. Zozulia AA, Neznamov GG, Siuniakov TS, et al. Efficacy and possible mechanisms of action of a new peptide anxiolytic Selank in the therapy of generalized anxiety disorders and neurasthenia. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova. 2008;108(4):38-48.

2. Seredenin SB, Kozlovskaia MM, et al. A comparison of the anxiolytic effect and tolerability of Selank and phenazepam in the treatment of anxiety disorders. Zh NevrolPsikhiatr Im S S Korsakova. 2014;114(7):17-22.

3. Filatova E, Kasian A, Kolomin T, et al. GABA, Selank, and Olanzapine Affect the Expression of Genes Involved in GABAergic Neurotransmission in IMR-32 Cells. Frontiers in Pharmacology. 2017;8:89.

4. Kasian A, Kolomin T, Andreeva L, et al. Peptide Selank Enhances the Effect of Diazepam in Reducing Anxiety in Unpredictable Chronic Mild Stress Conditions in Rats. Behavioural Neurology. 2017.

5. Kozlovskaya MM, et al. Selank administration affects the expression of some genes involved in GABAergic neurotransmission. PMC. 2016.

6. Ershov FI, et al. Antiviral activity of immunomodulator Selank in experimental influenza infection. Vopr Virusol. 2009;54(5):19-24.