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.
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BiohackingHub Research TeamEditorial Research Team · Last updated: March 1, 2026
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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