Selank
Selank Heptapeptide
A Russian-developed anxiolytic peptide derived from tuftsin. Used for anxiety, cognitive enhancement, and nervous system regulation without sedation or addiction potential.
How Selank Works
Selank is a synthetic analogue of the naturally occurring immunopeptide tuftsin, with an added Pro-Gly-Pro sequence for stability. It modulates the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and affects the balance of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine metabolism. Selank also influences the expression of genes related to GABAergic signaling, producing anxiolytic effects comparable to benzodiazepines but without sedation, cognitive impairment, or addiction potential. It additionally has immunomodulatory properties through its tuftsin-derived structure.
📊 Evidence by Outcome
Approved in Russia as an anxiolytic. Modulates GABA system without benzodiazepine side effects.
12 studies • Consistency: Moderate • Effect: Moderate
Some evidence for memory and learning improvement. BDNF upregulation observed.
6 studies • Consistency: Mixed • Effect: Small
Key Research
Peer-Reviewed Evidence • 3 Citations
Selank modulates the expression of genes involved in inflammation and immune response
Kolomin T et al.•Int Immunopharmacol•2013•PMID: 23369462
Key Finding: Selank significantly modulates expression of 36 genes related to immune function and inflammatory signaling pathways.
View on PubMedAnxiolytic effect of the synthetic peptide selank
Seredenin SB et al.•Bull Exp Biol Med•1998•PMID: 9783220
Key Finding: Selank demonstrates potent anxiolytic activity comparable to benzodiazepines without sedation, addiction potential, or cognitive impairment.
View on PubMedMolecular mechanisms of action of selank on the GABAergic system
Kasian A et al.•J Mol Neurosci•2019•PMID: 31037616
Key Finding: Selank enhances GABAergic neurotransmission through allosteric modulation, explaining its anti-anxiety and nootropic effects.
View on PubMedCitations sourced from PubMed, Cochrane Library, and peer-reviewed journals. Study findings are summarized for accessibility. Always consult the original publication for full methodology and results.
Side Effects & Safety
Interactions & Contraindications
Drug Interactions
- •May potentiate effects of benzodiazepines and other anxiolytics (additive calming effect)
- •Potential interaction with SSRI and SNRI antidepressants (Selank modulates serotonin metabolism)
- •May interact with sedative medications
Supplement Interactions
- •Compatible with L-theanine for enhanced calming effects
- •May complement magnesium glycinate for anxiety and sleep
- •Synergistic with Semax for combined cognitive and anxiolytic benefits
Food & Timing
- •Intranasal form not affected by food intake
- •No known food interactions
- •Can be used at any time of day
Who Should Avoid
- •Pregnancy and breastfeeding (insufficient safety data outside Russian studies)
- •Children under 18
- •Individuals with severe hypotension (may have mild blood pressure-lowering effects)
- •Concurrent use of multiple anxiolytic medications without medical supervision
📋 Protocol Snapshot
Protocols are for informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any treatment protocol.
Cost Guide
AED 300-800/month
Limited UAE availability. Costs may vary for international sourcing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Selank is available through some peptide-focused wellness clinics and compounding pharmacies in the UAE. It is approved as a pharmaceutical in Russia but not in the GCC. Availability is limited compared to more mainstream peptides.
Anxiolytic effects are typically noticed within minutes to hours of intranasal dosing. Cognitive and mood benefits may develop progressively over 1-2 weeks of consistent use. Full benefits are usually felt within 2-4 weeks.
No. Selank does not bind directly to GABA-A receptors like benzodiazepines and has shown no evidence of tolerance, dependence, or withdrawal in clinical studies. It works by modulating the GABAergic system indirectly through gene expression changes.
Yes, the Selank + Semax stack is popular for combining anxiolytic and nootropic benefits. Selank provides calming and anti-anxiety effects while Semax enhances focus and cognitive function. They work through complementary mechanisms.
Where to Get It (UAE)
Related Treatments
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Kamura Scores reflect a combination of research evidence, safety, accessibility, and value — they are not clinical recommendations. Research citations are provided for reference; always consult the original publications for complete study details. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or modifying any treatment. Individual results may vary.