What is the difference between Semax and ARA-290?

Semax (Semax (MEHFPGP)) is graded B and is Not FDA-approved in US — approved in Russia for stroke and cognitive disorders. ARA-290 (ARA-290 (Cibinetide)) is graded B and is Not FDA-approved — Phase 2/3 trials for sarcoidosis-associated small fiber neuropathy. They are commonly compared because they share the categories: neuroprotection.

Which has stronger clinical evidence — Semax or ARA-290?

On our internal evidence scale, Semax is B and ARA-290 is B. A+ indicates large RCTs plus FDA approval; C indicates primarily preclinical or anecdotal evidence.

What is the typical dose of Semax vs ARA-290?

Semax: 200–600 mcg intranasal, morning. ARA-290: Trial range: 1–4 mg subcutaneous daily. Always work with a licensed clinician — peptide dosing should be individualized.

Semax vs ARA-290

Both Semax and ARA-290 are used for neuroprotection. Here's how their evidence, dosing, and regulatory status actually compare.

Semax

Evidence B

Semax (MEHFPGP)

A synthetic ACTH fragment that increases BDNF levels and enhances focus, memory, and mental clarity. Delivered intranasally for rapid cognitive effects.

View full Semax profile →

ARA-290

Evidence B

ARA-290 (Cibinetide)

An 11-amino-acid peptide derived from the helix-B region of erythropoietin. Activates the tissue-protective receptor without erythropoietic side effects. Investigated for neuropathy and inflammation.

View full ARA-290 profile →

Side-by-Side

Attribute	Semax	ARA-290
Evidence Grade	B	B
FDA Status	Not FDA-approved in US — approved in Russia for stroke and cognitive disorders	Not FDA-approved — Phase 2/3 trials for sarcoidosis-associated small fiber neuropathy
Typical Dose	200–600 mcg intranasal, morning	Trial range: 1–4 mg subcutaneous daily
Clinics Indexed	89	9
Categories	cognitive, neuroprotection	anti-inflammatory, neuroprotection

Key reported benefits — Semax

✓BDNF increase
✓Enhanced focus
✓Memory improvement
✓Neuroprotection

Key reported benefits — ARA-290

✓Small-fiber neuropathy improvement
✓Anti-inflammatory
✓No erythrocytosis

Educational use only

This comparison is for educational purposes and not medical advice. Peptide selection should be made with a licensed medical professional based on your individual goals, health history, and current evidence quality.

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