Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from tuftsin, primarily studied for its anxiolytic and neuroprotective properties. It is typically administered intranasally using a reconstituted solution from a 5 mg vial. Dosing varies based on the final concentration of the solution and the spray volume of the nasal actuator, with research protocols often utilizing 50 mcg or 100 mcg per spray.
- Synthetic heptapeptide derived from tuftsin.
- Administered intranasally in human research.
- Commonly prepared in 5 mL or 10 mL final volumes for nasal spray.
- Dosing depends on final concentration and actuator spray volume (e.g., 0.10 mL).
Reconstitution
Vial strength
5 mg
Bacteriostatic water
3 mL
Concentration
1.67 mg/mL
This is initial concentration in vial, further dilution for nasal spray follows.
- 1Confirm availability of a 5 mg Selank vial, sterile research vehicle, nasal actuator bottle, and documented pump output.
- 2Add 3.0 mL of compatible sterile vehicle (e.g., 0.9% saline) to the Selank vial using aseptic technique.
- 3Gently swirl the vial until the peptide is completely dissolved; do not shake.
- 4Transfer the entire 3.0 mL solution from the vial into a sterile 5 mL or 10 mL nasal actuator bottle.
- 5Carefully add more vehicle to reach the exact final volume of 5.0 mL or 10.0 mL (approximately 2.0 mL or 7.0 mL more vehicle, respectively).
- 6Secure the pump, then label the bottle with the peptide amount, final volume, concentration, pump output, and preparation date.
- 7Prime the pump according to the actuator's instructions and record the number of priming sprays.
Dosing schedule
| Phase | Dose | On a U-100 syringe |
|---|---|---|
| 5 mL Final Volume Option | 100 mcg per spray (0.10 mL verified actuator) | 50 nominal sprays per 5 mg vial |
| 10 mL Final Volume Option | 50 mcg per spray (0.10 mL verified actuator) | 100 nominal sprays per 5 mg vial |
Protocol detail
| 300 mcg Equivalent | 3 sprays (5 mL option) or 6 sprays (10 mL option) |
|---|---|
| 900 mcg Equivalent | 9 sprays (5 mL option) or 18 sprays (10 mL option) |
| 2,700 mcg Equivalent | 27 sprays (5 mL option) or 54 sprays (10 mL option) |
Overview at a glance
| Human Research Route | Intranasal drops or solution |
|---|---|
| Peptide Amount (Total) | 5,000 mcg (5 mg vial) |
| 5 mL Option Concentration | 1,000 mcg/mL, 100 mcg per 0.10 mL spray |
| 10 mL Option Concentration | 500 mcg/mL, 50 mcg per 0.10 mL spray |
| Final Volume Rule | Bring transferred solution to an exact measured final volume |
How it works
Selank is a synthetic peptide that influences the body's natural defense mechanisms and stress responses. Research suggests it may modulate the activity of enzymes involved in enkephalin breakdown, thereby preserving endogenous enkephalins which have anxiolytic effects. It also appears to impact neurotransmitter systems and brain connectivity, contributing to its observed benefits in managing anxiety and improving cognitive functions. The intranasal route facilitates direct delivery, allowing it to bypass some systemic metabolism and potentially enhance its effects on the central nervous system.
Reported effects
- Anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties
- May improve mood
- Potential cognitive enhancement
- Neuroprotective effects
- Support for neurasthenia
Reported side effects
- Unpleasant taste sensation
- Possible allergic reactions
Storage
Lyophilised (unmixed)
Protected from light, below 10°C, not frozen.
After reconstitution
Store at or below 25°C for up to 15 days, protected from light. Custom preparations require specific stability controls.
Supplies
| Peptide vials | Selank 5 mg research vial |
|---|---|
| Sterile research vehicle | 0.9% sodium chloride (saline) or another validated sterile vehicle |
| Nasal actuator bottle | Sterile 5 mL or 10 mL bottle |
| Metering pump | Documented or verified at 0.10 mL per spray |
| Transfer tools | Sterile syringes or pipettes for accurate measurement |
| Clean handling supplies | Alcohol pads, gloves, disinfected work surface |
| Documentation | Labels and research log for recording details |
Important notes
- Accurate measurement of final volume and verified pump output are critical for consistent dosing.
- Priming and repriming of the nasal pump should follow manufacturer instructions and be recorded.
- Pump orientation and consistent stroke are important for accurate spray delivery.
- The theoretical spray counts are nominal; actual usable sprays may vary due to priming and residual volume.
Frequently asked questions
Why are there two different final volume options (5 mL and 10 mL) for Selank nasal spray?
The 5 mL and 10 mL options allow for different concentrations from the same 5 mg vial. The 5 mL option yields a higher concentration (100 mcg per 0.10 mL spray), while the 10 mL option provides a lower concentration (50 mcg per 0.10 mL spray). This flexibility accommodates various research protocols and desired per-spray dosages.
How crucial is the 'verified 0.10 mL spray' mentioned in the protocol?
It is extremely crucial. The accuracy of your dose per spray directly depends on the pump's output volume. If your nasal actuator delivers a different volume than 0.10 mL, your actual mcg per spray will be different from the calculated values. Always confirm your device's exact output or use a pump documented to deliver 0.10 mL per complete actuation.
Can I use purified water instead of 0.9% saline as a sterile research vehicle for Selank?
While some manufactured Selank products use purified water, for research examples, 0.9% sterile saline is often cited due to its isotonic properties and general compatibility in nasal preparations. The choice of vehicle can impact stability and absorption, so it's important to use a validated sterile research vehicle suitable for your specific experimental design.
What happens if I don't swirl gently and instead shake the Selank vial during reconstitution?
Shaking the vial vigorously can introduce air bubbles and potentially denature the peptide. Gentle swirling is recommended to ensure the peptide dissolves completely and evenly without causing damage to its structure, which might affect its efficacy.
Educational reference only. These figures summarise how Selank is commonly described in research literature and supplier documentation, including the Selank listing at peptidesuk4u.co.uk. They are not a prescription, not medical advice, and not a recommendation to self-administer anything.
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