Cortexin vs Selank
A side-by-side research comparison of Cortexin and Selank across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Cortexin | Selank |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Cortexin (Polypeptide Brain Extract) | Selank (TP-7) |
| Category | Cognitive & Nootropic | Cognitive & Nootropic |
| Status | Research compound (used clinically in some regions) | Research compound |
| Mechanism | Provides a blend of neuropeptides and neurotrophic factors thought to support neuronal metabolism, reduce oxidative stress, balance excitatory/inhibitory neurotransmission, and promote neuroprotection and repair. | Modulates GABA-A allosteric sites, increases BDNF, stabilizes enkephalin degradation, and influences serotonin metabolism. Enhances IL-6 and Th1/Th2 balance. |
| Molecular weight | Mixture (peptides <10 kDa) | 751.9 Da |
| Half-life | Varies by component | 3-5 min (IV) / 15-30 min (intranasal) |
| Bioavailability | Intramuscular injection | Moderate (intranasal) |
| Typical dose | ~10 mg per day (course-based) | 250-750 mcg per spray dose |
| Frequency | Once daily | 2-3x daily |
| Route | Intramuscular injection | Intranasal spray |
Cortexin reported benefits
- Neuroprotection
- Cognitive and memory support
- Used in stroke/TBI recovery (regional clinical use)
- Antioxidant effects
Selank reported benefits
- Anxiolytic without sedation
- Improved memory/learning
- Cognitive flexibility
- Immune modulation
- BDNF upregulation
- No addiction
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.