Selank
A synthetic heptapeptide analogue of tuftsin with anxiolytic, nootropic, and immunomodulatory properties. Developed in Russia as a dependence-free alternative to benzodiazepines. Reduces anxiety without sedation, enhances memory consolidation, and stabilises mood under stress.
Reviewed & fact-checked by
Dr. Jane Smith, MD, PhDChief Medical Reviewer · Last updated: March 1, 2026
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational and research purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Mechanism of Action
Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide analogue of tuftsin (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg) with an added Pro-Gly-Pro sequence that extends its half-life and CNS activity. Developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics alongside Semax.
Key mechanisms:
- GABA-A receptor modulation -- Selank enhances GABAergic tone without directly binding benzodiazepine receptors, producing anxiolysis without tolerance, dependence, or respiratory depression
- BDNF upregulation -- like Semax, Selank increases BDNF expression, contributing to its cognitive-enhancing profile
- Enkephalin system modulation -- inhibits enkephalin-degrading enzymes, increasing endogenous opioid peptide availability and contributing to mood stabilisation
- Immunomodulation -- modulates T-cell function and interleukin levels
Selank vs Benzodiazepines
| | Selank | Benzodiazepines | |---|---|---| | Mechanism | GABA modulation | Direct GABA-A agonism | | Tolerance | Minimal | Rapid | | Dependence | Not reported | Significant | | Cognitive effect | Enhancing | Impairing | | Sedation | Mild / none | Significant |
Stacking Interactions
How Selank interacts with other compounds
The classic balance stack. Semax for focus; Selank for calm. Ideal for deep work sessions.
Selank provides acute anxiolytic effect (within 30 min); Ashwagandha provides chronic HPA axis modulation. Complementary time profiles.
Safety Profile — Tier A
Well-tolerated — strong human evidence
Contraindications
- ●Pregnancy - insufficient data
Side Effects
- ●Mild drowsiness in some users (dose-dependent)
- ●Mild nasal irritation from intranasal use
- ●Very rarely: mild headache