Neuropeptides Clinical use

Selank

Also known as: Selank, Selanc, TP-7

Selank is a synthetic anxiolytic heptapeptide (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro) developed by the Institute of Molecular Biology of the Russian Academy of Sciences Genetic Bank. Derived from immunoglobulin fragment tuftsin with stabilizing extensions. Approved in Russia for generalized anxiety disorder treatment.

Mechanism of action

GABAergic system modulation (benzo-like effect without physical dependence)
BDNF upregulation, promoting neuroplasticity
Immune system modulation (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α)
Inhibition of endogenous enkephalin degradation
Nootropic effect: attention improvement and memory consolidation

Uses & indications

Generalized anxiety disorder (approved in Russia)
Situational anxiety and phobias
Cognitive enhancement: Concentration, working memory, learning
Mild depression and mood decline

Effects

Positive effects: Anxiety reduction without significant sedation, improved cognitive performance under stress, no documented physical dependence or withdrawal syndrome.

Adverse effects: Very well tolerated. Mild initial drowsiness, mild headache in some cases. No documented serious side effects.

Considerations & contraindications

Not approved by FDA/EMA; approved in Russia (registration R N001871/01)
Unknown interactions with benzodiazepines or other anxiolytics
Do not combine with alcohol
Do not use during pregnancy

Regulatory approval

Approved in Russia (registration R N001871/01) for anxiety disorders and neurotic disorders. Not approved in the European Union or United States.

Dosage

250–3000 μg/day (intranasal). Cycles of 5–14 days. Typical regimen: 250 μg × 2/day × 10 days.

Storage

Intranasal solution: 4°C, protect from light. Lyophilized: −20°C.

Technical data

Regulatory status Clinical use

Molecular weight 751.86 Da

Half-life ~5–30 min (iv/im), mayor duración biológica

Administration routes Intranasal (solución), subcutánea, intravenosa