N-Acetyl Selank

N-Acetyl Selank (N-Acetyl Selank Amidate) is a stabilized version of Selank, a synthetic peptide developed in Russia as an anxiolytic and nootropic. Standard Selank is derived from the endogenous immunomodulatory peptide tuftsin, with additional amino acids that shift its effects toward the nervous system.

The N-acetyl and amide modifications in N-Acetyl Selank improve stability by protecting the peptide from enzymatic degradation at both termini. This makes it more practical for research applications, particularly intranasal administration where unmodified peptides can degrade before absorption.

Like standard Selank, N-Acetyl Selank's primary effects are anxiolytic—reducing anxiety without sedation. It also supports cognitive function, making it popular in the nootropic research community alongside NA-Semax Amidate. The two peptides are often used together for balanced enhancement: NA-Semax for stimulation and focus, N-Acetyl Selank for calm and stress reduction.

N-Acetyl Selank exerts its effects primarily through modulation of the GABAergic system, though its mechanism differs from typical GABAergic drugs.

GABA Modulation

Unlike benzodiazepines which directly activate GABA-A receptors, Selank appears to modulate GABAergic transmission more subtly—possibly through effects on GABA metabolism or indirect receptor modulation. This produces anxiolytic effects without the sedation, cognitive impairment, or addiction potential of direct GABA agonists.

Additional Mechanisms

Research suggests Selank also affects:

• Serotonergic transmission (may contribute to mood effects)
• Dopaminergic systems
• Enkephalin metabolism
• Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)

Comparison to NA-Semax

NA-Semax Amidate works primarily through BDNF and dopaminergic pathways, producing stimulating effects. N-Acetyl Selank's GABAergic focus produces calming effects. Together, they provide balance.

Research on N-Acetyl Selank specifically is limited, but standard Selank has substantial documentation in Russian literature.

Anxiolytic Effects

Studies have confirmed Selank's anxiolytic effects in both animal models and human research, with effects comparable to benzodiazepines but without sedation or addiction potential.

Cognitive Effects

Research shows improvements in attention, memory, and learning—likely related to reduced anxiety-based interference with cognition and direct neurotrophic effects.

Stability Advantage

The modifications in N-Acetyl Selank address the stability limitations that can affect standard Selank in practical use, particularly in nasal spray formulations where enzymatic degradation is a concern.

N-Acetyl Selank is typically administered intranasally or subcutaneously.

Intranasal

• Dose: 200-600 mcg per administration
• Frequency: 1-3 times daily
• Often used morning and afternoon to avoid evening stimulation

Subcutaneous

Similar doses can be used subcutaneously when nasal isn't practical.

Combination with NA-Semax

Many protocols combine with NA-Semax Amidate: NA-Semax for morning focus, N-Acetyl Selank for afternoon calm, or both together for balanced effects.

N-Acetyl Selank appears well-tolerated based on Selank research and research community experience.

Reported Effects

• Nasal irritation (mild, with intranasal use)
• Occasional fatigue
• No significant adverse events reported

Key Advantages

• No sedation
• No addiction potential
• No cognitive impairment
• No withdrawal symptoms