Cognitive Peptides

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Nootropic peptides like Semax and Selank are studied for neuroprotection, memory enhancement, and cognitive performance under stress. This category covers compounds researched for brain-derived neurotrophic factor modulation and neural repair.

Cerebrolysin

Cognitive

A mix of brain-derived peptides and amino acids from pig brains. Widely used worldwide for stroke recovery, brain injury, and brain degeneration. Mimics the body's natural brain-supporting factors to help neurons survive, form new connections, and grow.

Neurotrophic SupportNeuroprotectionNeurogenesis
Half-life:Peptide fragments: minutes to hours; neurotrophic effects persist for days

Cortagen

CognitiveAnti-Aging

A short synthetic peptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Pro) developed by the Khavinson Institute in Russia. Designed to support brain cortex function by modulating gene expression in brain cells. Part of the Khavinson peptide bioregulator family alongside Epithalon and Vilon. One of the few peptides specifically formulated for brain function optimization, available in both injectable and oral/sublingual forms.

Cortical FunctionNeuroprotection
Half-life:1-3 hours

Dihexa

CognitiveAnti-Aging

A compound derived from angiotensin IV, reported to be extremely potent at enhancing memory and brain plasticity in animal studies. One of the most discussed nootropic compounds for memory enhancement. Works through a different pathway than typical brain drugs — the HGF/c-Met system rather than traditional neurotransmitter pathways.

Cognitive EnhancementDendritic Spine Growth
Half-life:Estimated several hours (limited pharmacokinetic data)

Humanin

Anti-AgingCognitiveMetabolic

A 24-amino-acid peptide naturally produced by mitochondria. Related to MOTS-c but works differently. Protects cells against oxidative stress, cell death, and age-related damage by interacting with proteins involved in apoptosis and IGF signaling. One of the most studied peptides in longevity research, with evidence that levels decline in aging tissues.

CytoprotectionAnti-AgingInsulin Sensitivity
Half-life:0.5-4 hours (varies by analogue; HNG has extended activity)

Oxytocin

Sexual HealthCognitive

Often called the 'love hormone' — it plays a big role in bonding, trust, and feeling close to others. Your body makes it in the brain. It's also what makes the uterus contract during childbirth and triggers milk release when breastfeeding. The nasal spray form is increasingly used to support social connection and mood.

Social BondingLabor InductionAnxiety Reduction
Half-life:3-5 minutes (IV); intranasal effects persist longer due to sustained CNS absorption

P21 (P021)

CognitiveAnti-Aging

A small peptide derived from a brain-protecting factor (CNTF). Helps create new brain cells, protects existing neurons, and blocks the process that forms tangles in Alzheimer's disease. One of the few peptides specifically targeting brain degeneration, with potential for Alzheimer's disease and age-related cognitive decline.

NeurogenesisTau ReductionAlzheimer's Potential
Half-life:4-6 hours (limited pharmacokinetic data)

Selank

CognitiveImmune

A lab-made peptide based on a natural immune-signaling peptide. Developed in Russia to help with anxiety and mental sharpness. Works like anti-anxiety medications without the drowsiness or addiction risk, while also supporting brain health and immune function.

AnxiolyticCognitive EnhancementImmune Modulation
Half-life:2-3 minutes (rapidly metabolized, but CNS effects persist for hours)

Semax

Cognitive

A lab-made peptide based on a brain hormone fragment. Developed in Russia and approved there for cognitive problems and brain injury recovery. Helps with thinking, memory, and sustained focus by boosting brain-nourishing factors in memory and learning areas.

Cognitive EnhancementNeuroprotectionFocus & Attention
Half-life:2-3 minutes (rapidly metabolized, but CNS effects persist for hours)