DSIP vs Selank
A neutral, side-by-side comparison of two nootropic & cognitive peptides — their mechanisms, dosing ranges, administration routes, side effects, and research evidence. For research and educational purposes only.
DSIP
DSIP (Delta Sleep Inducing Peptide) is a nonapeptide (9 amino acids) first isolated from rabbit thalamus in 1974, initially believed to directly induce slow-wave (delta) sleep. Research has since broadened its profile considerably: it modulates the HPA axis (reducing stress-driven cortisol), influences GH and LH release, demonstrates antioxidant properties, and may have cardioprotective effects. Despite decades of research, its precise receptor system remains incompletely characterized.
Full profileSelank
Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide derived from tuftsin, an endogenous immunomodulatory peptide. Developed in Russia by the Institute of Molecular Genetics, it has been studied extensively for anxiolytic, nootropic, and immunomodulatory effects. It is registered as a medication in Russia and Ukraine.
Full profile| DSIP | Selank | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Nootropic & Cognitive | Nootropic & Cognitive |
| Also known as | Delta Sleep Inducing Peptide, Trp-Ala-Gly-Gly-Asp-Ala-Ser-Gly-Glu | TP-7, Tuftsin analog |
| Evidence | Research-stage | Research-stage |
| Dosing range | 100mcg–500mcg mcg, Once daily (evening) or every other day | 250mcg–1000mcg mcg, 1–2x daily |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection, Intranasal, Intravenous (clinical studies) | Intranasal (most common — direct CNS delivery), Subcutaneous injection |
| Key side effects | Generally well-tolerated, Daytime drowsiness if dosed in morning, Mild headache, Altered dream quality (common) | Mild sedation at high doses, Nasal irritation (intranasal route), Generally very well-tolerated, No reported dependence or withdrawal |
| Cited sources | 3 references | 1 reference |
Key differences
- Administration: DSIP — Subcutaneous injection, Intranasal, Intravenous (clinical studies); Selank — Intranasal (most common — direct CNS delivery), Subcutaneous injection.
- Frequency: DSIP is typically Once daily (evening) or every other day; Selank is 1–2x daily.
- Research depth: this profile cites 3 sources for DSIP vs 1 for Selank.
How each works
DSIP
DSIP does not directly trigger sleep in the simple sense originally proposed — more recent research indicates it modulates the neuroendocrine environment that facilitates sleep. Key findings: it reduces ACTH-driven cortisol elevation under stress, increases GH secretion in some models, and attenuates withdrawal severity in opioid and alcohol dependence (mechanisms unclear). DSIP demonstrates antioxidant effects and has cardioprotective properties in ischemic preconditioning models in animals. Its unique resistance to most peptidases (attributed to its unusual conformation) gives it a relatively long half-life for a nonapeptide.
Selank
Selank modulates GABA-A receptors and influences BDNF expression, producing anxiolytic effects comparable to benzodiazepines without sedation or dependence. Russian clinical studies report improvements in generalized anxiety disorder, cognitive performance, and mood stability. It also appears to modulate T-helper cell ratios and interferon production.
This comparison aggregates public research and structured profile data for informational purposes only. It is not medical advice and does not recommend either compound for human use. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before considering any peptide.