SELANK: ANXIETY RELIEF AND COGNITIVE ENHANCEMENT
- Barbara Bartee
- Nov 6, 2025
- 3 min read
OVERVIEW:
Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide (7 amino acids) derived from tuftsin, a naturally occurring immunomodulatory peptide
Developed by the Institute of Molecular Genetics, Russian Academy of Sciences
Has anxiolytic effects comparable to benzodiazepines without sedation, dependence, or cognitive impairment
WHAT DOES SELANK DO?
Reduces anxiety and stress without sedation
Enhances cognitive function, memory, and learning
Improves mood and emotional regulation
Supports immune system function
Increases BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor)
Provides neuroprotection and stress resilience
USES:
Generalized anxiety disorder and stress management
Cognitive enhancement and focus improvement
Mood regulation and emotional balance
Memory improvement and learning optimization
Immune system support
Neuroprotection and brain health
Performance anxiety and stress resilience
SELANK RESEARCH
Anxiolytic Effects: The anxiolytic effect of Selank is comparable to that of classical benzodiazepine drugs, but without the associated risks of tolerance, dependence, or cognitive impairment. Clinical studies showed 40% of patients were rapid responders with symptom reduction in 1-3 days, while 60% responded gradually with significant improvements by day 14.
GABAergic Modulation: Selank affects GABA binding as a positive allosteric modulator, influencing specific binding of GABA to GABAA receptors. This mechanism is similar to benzodiazepines but without their negative side effects.
Cognitive Enhancement: Selank increases the availability of dopamine and serotonin, both crucial for emotional regulation, motivation, and executive function. It has been shown to enhance memory, neuroplasticity, and cognitive performance in multiple studies.
BDNF Upregulation: Selank has been found to rapidly elevate the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus, supporting neuroplasticity, learning, and memory formation.
Immunomodulatory Effects: As an analog of tuftsin, Selank modulates the expression of Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and affects the balance of T helper cell cytokines, providing immune system support alongside its neurological benefits.
Potential Mechanism of Action: Selank works through multiple pathways:
Enhances GABAergic neurotransmission without benzodiazepine side effects
Modulates dopamine and serotonin systems for mood and cognition
Increases BDNF expression for neuroplasticity and learning
Regulates cytokine expression for immune support
Inhibits enzymes that degrade enkephalins and regulatory peptides
Normalizes sleep-wake balance without sedation
SELANK LIFESTYLE SUPPORT
LIFESTYLE SUPPORT:
Quality sleep (7-9 hours) for optimal neurological function
Stress management techniques (meditation, breathing exercises)
Regular physical activity to enhance neuroplasticity
Balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants
Mental stimulation through learning and challenging activities
Social engagement and meaningful relationships
WHAT TO EXPECT:
IMPORTANT: Effects vary - some experience rapid response, others gradual improvement!
40% of users may experience rapid anxiety relief within 1-3 days
60% of users experience gradual improvement over 2 weeks
Enhanced focus and mental clarity often noticed within days
Improved mood and stress resilience builds over weeks
Cognitive benefits accumulate with consistent use
No sedation or "drugged" feeling unlike benzodiazepines
SELANK DOSING + CYCLING
Standard Intranasal Protocol: 300mcg 2-3x daily
Selank | Preparation | Strength | Dose | Frequency | Supply |
10 mg Vial | 10 mL sterile water/saline | 1mg/mL | 300mcg (3 drops per nostril) | 2-3x daily | 11-16 days |
Cycling: 2-4 weeks on, 1-2 weeks off, repeat as needed
Intranasal administration preferred for rapid absorption
1-2 drops per nostril, 2-3 times daily
Morning and midday doses most common
Avoid evening dosing if it interferes with sleep
SELANK DOSING + CYCLING
Injectable Protocol: 250-500mcg daily
Selank | Bacteriostatic water added | Strength mg/mL | Dose | Frequency | Supply |
10 mg Vial | 2 mL | 5mg/mL | 250-500mcg (5-10 units) | Daily | 20-40 days |
Cycling: 3-4 weeks on, 1-2 weeks off, repeat cycles as needed
Subcutaneous injection (abdomen, thigh, arm)
Once daily administration typical
Morning or early afternoon preferred
Effects build over several days to weeks
SELANK: SCREENING
Selank is generally well-tolerated with minimal contraindications.
Screening Questions: • Do you have any active cancer or tumor history? • Are you pregnant or breastfeeding? • Do you have severe psychiatric disorders or psychosis? • Are you taking benzodiazepines or other GABAergic medications?
Reasons: • Caution advised with active malignancies due to immune modulation • Insufficient safety data during pregnancy/breastfeeding • May interact with other GABAergic medications • Should be used under medical guidance for severe psychiatric conditions
Note: Selank has a favorable side effect profile compared to benzodiazepines with no documented dependence potential, tolerance development, or withdrawal symptoms. The peptide is metabolized rapidly and eliminated within minutes, but effects last hours to days.
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