P21 vs Selank
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
- Summary
- P21 is a synthetic peptide derived from CNTF (ciliary neurotrophic factor) that promotes hippocampal neurogenesis, enhances memory and spatial learning, and may reduce amyloid-beta pathology. It is used as a neurogenic and cognitive enhancer with potential anti-Alzheimer's applications.
- Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide analog of tuftsin developed in Russia. It is a potent anxiolytic that reduces anxiety and enhances cognitive function without sedation or addiction. It is approved for clinical use in Russia for anxiety disorders.
- Half-Life
- Not well characterized; likely short, but neurogenic effects persist long after administration
- Minutes (but effects persist for hours)
- Admin Route
- SubQ, Intranasal
- SubQ, Intranasal
- Research
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- —
- Typical Dose
- 100–500 mcg
- 250–500 mcg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- 1–3 times daily
- Key Benefits
- Promotes hippocampal neurogenesis
- Enhances spatial memory and learning
- Increases BDNF expression
- Reduces amyloid-beta plaque formation (animal models)
- Anti-tau pathology potential
- Cognitive enhancement without stimulant effects
- Potential therapeutic for Alzheimer's and cognitive aging
- Reduces anxiety without sedation
- Enhances memory and learning
- Improves focus and concentration
- Stabilizes mood
- Reduces physiological stress response
- May enhance motivation
- No addiction potential or withdrawal
- Fast-acting — effects within 20–30 minutes
- Approved clinically in Russia for anxiety disorders
- Side Effects
- Generally well tolerated in animal studies
- Limited human clinical data
- Injection site reactions
- Potential mild fatigue at initiation
- Mild sedation at higher doses (paradoxical)
- Fatigue (rare)
- Irritability during discontinuation (uncommon)
- Stacks With
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