Selank

Also known as: Selanc, TP-7, Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro

Origin

Synthetic heptapeptide

Half-life

~1–2 minutes in blood; CNS effects last 4–6 hours

Admin

Intranasal

Studies

2 PubMed

Selank is a synthetic anxiolytic and nootropic peptide developed by the Russian Academy of Sciences as a stable analogue of Tuftsin (an endogenous immunopeptide from IgG). It is approved in Russia and Ukraine for anxiety and asthenia. In cancer care it is used to manage chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment ('chemo brain'), anxiety, and immune dysregulation.

Properties

AnxiolyticNootropicChemo brain supportImmune modulationBDNF promotionAnti-asthenicNon-sedating

Amino Acid Sequence

Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro

Origin: Synthetic heptapeptide; analogue of the human immunomodulatory peptide Tuftsin

Mechanism of Action

Enhances BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) and NGF expression, stabilising neuronal circuits. Modulates GABA-A receptor sensitivity (anxiolytic without sedation or dependence). Increases expression of IL-2, IL-6, and interferons. Inhibits the enkephalin-degrading enzyme — raising endogenous opioid levels for mild analgesia and mood elevation. Does not cause tolerance or withdrawal.

🎗️

Cancer Relevance

Primarily supportive in cancer contexts: (1) Reduces chemotherapy-associated anxiety and depression without sedation. (2) Counteracts 'chemo brain' cognitive effects by promoting BDNF. (3) Immune modulation via IL-2 and interferon upregulation. (4) May reduce steroid-related mood instability. (5) Tuftsin (its parent molecule) has direct anti-tumour activity via macrophage activation — Selank may share this partially.

Dosage & Administration

Dose

250–500 mcg intranasally, 2–3 times per day. Or 250–500 mcg subcutaneously once daily.

Routes of Administration

Intranasal drops/spraySubcutaneous injection

Cycle Protocol

10–14 day cycles, repeat as needed. Can be used continuously at low doses without dependence.

NIH / PubMed Research

PMID 18038944Selank — a synthetic analogue of tuftsin with anxiolytic and nootropic properties PMID 26291879SELANK and its effects on anxiety and cognitive function

Links open on PubMed (National Library of Medicine). Research is ongoing — results may not reflect clinical use.

Cautions & Considerations

Not approved by FDA or EMA; approved in Russia/Ukraine only
Intranasal route preferred to avoid rapid degradation in blood
Mild transient nasal irritation possible
Avoid combining with other GABAergic drugs (potentiation risk)
Not a treatment for cancer — supportive use only

Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your oncologist before using any peptide.