New — Free Peptide Starter Guide (2026): 13 chapters, 34 cited studies

Get it free
Tools›Compare›Melanotan II vs Semax

Melanotan II vs Semax

Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.

Sexual Health & Libido
Melanotan II
Cognitive Enhancement
Semax
Summary
Melanotan II is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) that stimulates melanin production (skin tanning), suppresses appetite, and enhances sexual function. It is not FDA-approved and has significant safety concerns including mole changes and cardiovascular effects.
Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from ACTH developed in Russia. It is a potent nootropic that enhances memory, focus, and provides neuroprotection. Approved in Russia for cognitive disorders, stroke recovery, and traumatic brain injury.
Half-Life
1–2 hours
Minutes (but effects persist for hours via BDNF induction)
Admin Route
SubQ
Intranasal, SubQ
Research
—
—
Typical Dose
0.25–0.5 mg
0.25–1 mg (250–1000 mcg)
Frequency
Once daily
1–2 times daily
Key Benefits
  • Promotes skin tanning and melanin production
  • Reduces UV exposure needed to tan
  • Enhances libido and sexual function
  • May suppress appetite
  • Faster, deeper tan development
  • Longer-lasting tan maintenance
  • Potential photoprotective effects
  • Enhances memory and learning
  • Improves focus and concentration
  • Increases mental energy and motivation
  • Provides neuroprotection via BDNF and NGF upregulation
  • Reduces cognitive decline
  • May alleviate ADHD symptoms
  • Supports recovery from brain injury and stroke
  • Fast-acting — effects within 30–60 minutes
  • Approved in Russia for cognitive disorders and stroke recovery
Side Effects
  • Nausea (very common, especially in first days)
  • Facial flushing
  • Spontaneous erections in men
  • Darkening or changes in existing moles (monitor closely)
  • +3 more
  • Headache (rare, often from higher doses)
  • Anxiety or overstimulation at high doses
  • Sleep disruption if dosed too late
  • Irritability (uncommon)
Stacks With
—
—