Brain, mood and sleep

Semax is a 7-amino-acid peptide based on a fragment of ACTH, a brain-signaling hormone, given as a nasal spray. In plain terms: it raises BDNF, a chemical that helps brain cells grow and connect, which is why it is used for focus and memory, and in Russia after strokes.

Selank is a synthetic version of tuftsin, a natural immune-and-brain peptide, given as a nasal spray. In plain terms: it gently tunes the calming GABA and serotonin systems to lower anxiety without sedation or dependence.

N-Acetyl Semax Amidate is a chemically tweaked, more stable version of Semax. In plain terms: it does the same focus-and-memory job by raising BDNF, but resists breakdown so it lasts longer.

DSIP (delta sleep-inducing peptide) is a natural 9-amino-acid brain peptide linked to deep sleep. In plain terms: taken before bed, it is used to encourage the deep, slow-wave stage of sleep, though results are inconsistent.

Dihexa is a small peptide derived from angiotensin IV that powerfully activates HGF, a growth signal for brain connections. In plain terms: it is studied for building new synapses and reversing memory loss, with striking animal results but essentially no human safety data.

Methylene blue is a century-old synthetic dye, not a peptide, that can shuttle electrons inside cells' energy machinery. In plain terms: at low doses it helps mitochondria make energy more efficiently, which is why it is taken for focus and energy. It famously turns urine blue-green, which is harmless.

Pinealon is a 3-amino-acid 'bioregulator' from the Russian Khavinson family of short peptides. In plain terms: it is marketed to support brain function, sleep, and healthy aging, but there is very little real human research behind it.

P21 is a small peptide derived from CNTF, a natural nerve-growth factor. In plain terms: it is studied for growing new brain cells and protecting memory, but there is no human data.

PE-22-28 is a peptide based on spadin that blocks a potassium channel (TREK-1) tied to mood. In plain terms: it is studied as a fast-acting antidepressant that may also support brain flexibility, but there is no human data.