Selank is a synthetic analog of the natural immunopeptide Tuftsin, originally developed for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder. It has a number of additional benefits, including the ability to improve learning and memory, reduce stress, alleviate depression, and positively affect pain perception.
Often nicknamed the “benzo of the peptide world,” Selank has been shown to work similarly to benzodiazepines like diazepam and phenazepam, minus the addictive potential. It even outperformed diazepam in a number of clinical studies.
Selank mimics many of the effects of Tuftsin, including its immunomodulatory mechanisms. Tuftsin stimulates macrophages that have taken up residence in specific tissues like the liver, spleen, and lymph nodes, and helps mobilize other white blood cells to fight infection and cancer. A deficiency of Tuftsin has been associated with frequent infections.
In studies comparing the effectiveness of Selank to recombinant interferon-A for treating the influenza virus, Selank outperformed by a substantial margin. It stimulates interferon secretion, making it effective at fighting viral and microbial infections.
Selank is also a nootropic (cognitive-enhancing substance), shown to prevent or reverse damage to the brain caused by various injuries. It offers protection against memory impairment linked to elevated brain-derived neurotrophic factor in the hippocampus and frontal cortex—often observed in alcohol misuse.
Selank may help preserve or restore cognitive function after ischemic stroke, traumatic brain injury, and neurotoxin-induced neurodegeneration. It can be used alongside common psychiatric drugs like SSRIs.
Possible Side Effects
While rare, side effects from Selank may include:
- Injection site irritation (redness, swelling, and/or itching)
- Sinus irritation (with intranasal use)
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Headaches
