Selank
Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide analog of tuftsin (an endogenous immunomodulatory tetrapeptide) developed at the Russian Institute of Molecular Genetics, and studied primarily for anxiolytic and nootropic effects without sedation or physical dependence. It is proposed to modulate BDNF levels, slow the enzymatic degradation of enkephalins, and stabilize monoamine neurotransmitter balance, though direct mechanistic evidence in humans is sparse. Clinical data consist largely of small Russian and Eastern European studies in generalized anxiety disorder and neurasthenia, with methodological limitations including small sample sizes and lack of rigorous blinding. Selank is registered as a nasal spray anxiolytic in Russia but is not approved by the FDA, EMA, or comparable Western regulatory bodies, and long-term safety data are lacking.
Evidence last reviewed: 04 Apr 2026
Not a routine supplement — not recommended for self-directed use.
Information here is educational only, not a recommendation to use. See our Safety page.
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Evidence is from research or clinical settings — does not imply safety outside supervised contexts.
The evidence for Selank's efficacy is primarily derived from small studies with methodological limitations, including poor blinding and small sample sizes. While some reports suggest anxiolytic effects, the overall strength of the evidence is low and lacks comprehensive safety data.
Anxiety symptom measuresPatients with generalized anxiety disorder/neurasthenia (reported clinical study) · Clinical-biological study (older literature)Low
Clinical literature reports anxiolytic effects in patient cohorts, but study designs & reporting standards vary & limit certainty.
Anxiolytic effect vs. phenazepam in anxiety disorders60 patients with phobic-anxiety and somatoform disorders · Comparative clinical studyLow
Selank showed pronounced anxiolytic & mild nootropic effects compared with phenazepam; the anxiolytic effect persisted for approximately one week after the last dose. Methodology reflects older Russian clinical reporting standards, limiting generalizability.
Non-stimulant cognitive/calm pairing commonly discussed in nootropic communities.