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Important Safety Semax Nasal Spray

Semax Nasal Spray (Compounded Semax Intranasal Solution) | Patient Safety Information


Important Safety Notice



THIS IS A CUSTOM PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION INTENDED ONLY FOR YOU.


What is Semax Nasal Spray?

Semax Nasal Spray is a compounded liquid medication sprayed into the nose. The active ingredient, Semax, is a lab-made peptide (a short chain of 7 amino acids, the building blocks of proteins). It is based on a small piece of a natural hormone called ACTH, but it does not act like a stress or steroid hormone in the body. It is intended only for adults 18 years and older.


Important: Semax Nasal Spray is a compounded medication. Semax is NOT FDA-approved for any use, and there is no FDA-approved Semax product. This product has not been reviewed by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or quality.


Regulatory status: In May 2026, FDA staff recommended that Semax not be added to the list of ingredients pharmacies may use in compounding, citing limited safety data, limited evidence of benefit, and quality concerns. FDA has not issued a final decision. Availability may change based on that decision and the laws in your state.


What it is studied for: In animal studies, Semax raised levels of a brain growth protein called BDNF. Most human research comes from small studies in Russia, where Semax is registered as a medicine. Your provider may recommend it for cognitive or neurologic wellness. These are not FDA-approved uses, and no specific result is guaranteed.


Strength: 5 mg/mL (75 mg of Semax per 15 mL bottle), aqueous nasal spray with metered-dose pump.


Note: This summary does not contain all possible safety information. It is not a substitute for advice from your healthcare provider. Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication.


How to Use Semax Nasal Spray

  1. Wash your hands and gently blow your nose to clear the nasal passages.
  2. Prime the pump before first use, or if unused for several days. Spray into the air, away from your face and eyes, until a fine mist appears.
  3. Tilt your head slightly forward. Close one nostril. Place the tip in the open nostril, pointing slightly toward the outer wall (away from the center of your nose).
  4. Breathe in gently as you press the pump once. DO NOT SNIFF HARD.
  5. Repeat in the other nostril if directed. Wipe the tip with a clean tissue and replace the cap.


Important Usage Notes:

  • Dose: Use only the number of sprays prescribed on your pharmacy label. Do not exceed your prescribed dose.
  • Timing: Morning or early-day dosing is often advised to avoid trouble sleeping.
  • Missed dose: Use it when you remember, unless it is close to your next dose or late in the evening. Do not double up.
  • After dosing: Do not blow your nose right after a dose. Do not share your bottle with anyone.
  • Eyes: Never spray toward your eyes.
  • Storage: Refrigerate at 36-46°F (2-8°C) unless your label says otherwise. Do not freeze. Protect from light and heat. Do not use after the beyond-use date (BUD) on the label, or if the liquid is cloudy, discolored, or has particles.
  • Source: Use only product dispensed by a licensed pharmacy under your prescription. Never use “research use only” or online-purchased Semax.


Who Should NOT Use Semax Nasal Spray


Do not use Semax Nasal Spray if you:

  • Have a known allergy to Semax, ACTH-related peptides, or any ingredient in the formulation (including the preservative)
  • Have a bleeding disorder, or have had recent serious bleeding, a bleeding (hemorrhagic) stroke, or recent surgery, unless your provider has specifically cleared you
  • Have significant damage to the lining of your nose, recent nasal surgery, frequent nosebleeds, or an active nasal infection
  • Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
  • Are under 18 years of age


Important Warnings

Limited Safety Data

  • No human studies have measured how Semax is absorbed or cleared by the body.
  • No formal animal toxicity, cancer, or reproductive safety studies have been found. Most human studies did not report side effects. Long-term safety is unknown.


Bleeding Risk

  • Animal studies show Semax may thin the blood and reduce platelet clumping. FDA flagged this as a possible bleeding risk, especially with blood thinners.
  • Report unusual bruising, bleeding gums, blood in urine or stool, or nosebleeds that will not stop.


Immune and Allergic Reactions

  • Peptides can trigger the immune system, especially if impurities or clumped peptide particles are present.
  • Stop using and get medical help right away for rash, hives, facial or throat swelling, wheezing, or trouble breathing.


Mental Health and Behavioral Effects

  • In animals, Semax affected serotonin and boosted dopamine release caused by stimulants. Its abuse potential has not been studied.
  • Use caution if you take stimulants or antidepressants, or have a history of anxiety, mania, psychosis, substance use, or seizures.
  • Semax may cause restlessness, irritability, or trouble sleeping.


Eye and Nasal Effects

  • FDA received one report of lasting eye pain and burning, with hospitalization, after use of Semax nasal drops bought online. Stop use and contact your provider if eye symptoms occur.
  • Nasal sprays can cause burning, dryness, or bleeding of the nose lining with frequent use. Stop and contact your provider for persistent nasal pain, repeated nosebleeds, or signs of infection.


Other Precautions

Talk to your doctor before using Semax Nasal Spray if you:

  • Have low platelets, liver disease, or a history of stroke of any type
  • Are an older adult, take several medications, or have a higher bleeding or fall risk •
  • Use other nasal sprays (separate doses as directed)

Alcohol and Cannabis

  • Limit alcohol and avoid cannabis and recreational drugs while using Semax Nasal Spray. How Semax interacts with these substances has not been studied.


Drug Interactions

Drug interactions with Semax have not been formally studied. Tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you take, especially:



Always tell all your doctors that you are using Semax Nasal Spray, especially before starting any new medications or having surgery or dental work.


Common Side Effects


Because few studies tracked side effects, the full list is not known. Reported or expected effects include:


  • Nasal burning, stinging, or irritation
  • Runny nose, congestion, or sneezing
  • Unpleasant taste or post-nasal drip
  • Headache
  • Restlessness, irritability, or trouble sleeping • Anxiety or mood changes


If any side effects become concerning, contact your doctor or call the phone number on your prescription label to speak with a pharmacist.


When to Seek Emergency Medical Help


STOP using Semax Nasal Spray and get immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Bleeding that will not stop, including a nosebleed lasting more than 20 minutes
  • Blood in your urine or stool, vomiting blood, or black, tarry stools
  • Sudden severe headache, confusion, weakness, or trouble speaking
  • Eye pain, burning, or vision changes
  • Severe agitation, hallucinations, or unusual behavior
  • Chest pain, palpitations (irregular or pounding heartbeat), or fainting
  • Allergic reaction: sudden wheezing, difficulty breathing, dizziness, swelling of face/lips/tongue/throat, or hives


If you use too much, contact your provider or Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.


Reporting Side Effects

If you experience any serious or unexpected side effects, report them to:

  • Your dispensing pharmacy: phone number on your prescription label
  • FDA: 1-800-FDA-1088
  • Online: www.fda.gov/medwatch


There is no FDA-approved prescribing information for Semax. Ask your provider or pharmacist if you have questions about this medication.

Important Safety Semax Nasal Spray | Rugiet