Semax for coding productivity — 30 day experiment
As a software developer I need sustained focus for hours. I tracked my output for 30 days on Semax vs 30 days without. Protocol: 300mcg intranasal each morning Metrics I tracked: Git commits per day Deep work blocks 90+…
As a software developer I need sustained focus for hours. I tracked my output for 30 days on Semax vs 30 days without.
Protocol: 300mcg intranasal each morning
Metrics I tracked:
- Git commits per day
- Deep work blocks (90+ min uninterrupted)
- Self-rated focus (1-10)
- Side effects
Results:
- Commits/day: 4.2 → 6.1 (45% increase)
- Deep work blocks: 1.8 → 2.9 per day
- Focus rating: 5.8 → 7.9 average
- Side effects: slight stimulation first 3 days, then leveled off
It's not like Adderall — there's no jittery energy or crash. It's more like your normal focus state but... better. Clearer. Distractions don't pull you away as easily.
I cycle 5 days on, 2 off (weekends). No tolerance buildup in 30 days. This is now a staple in my stack.
Note: Semax is more stimulating than Selank. If you get anxiety from stimulants, Selank might be the better choice.
5 Replies
Love the data-driven approach. I've been tracking similar metrics with Semax and my experience matches yours almost exactly. The 45% commit increase is real — mine was about 40%. The quality of code improves too, not just quantity.
Great self-experiment. One thing to add: Semax also has neuroprotective and neuroplasticity benefits, so the focus improvement may compound over time rather than being purely acute. Some research suggests lasting cognitive benefits even after stopping.
I switched from Semax to Selank because the stimulation was too much for me (I'm caffeine-sensitive). Selank gives me similar focus but with a calm clarity instead of the stimulating edge. Both are excellent, just depends on your neurochemistry.
Fascinating data. The fact that you tracked this objectively with commits and deep work blocks makes this much more convincing than subjective reports. I'm going to suggest this to some of my tech-sector clients who struggle with focus.
Impressive experiment, Raj! We love how you've laid out your data — it really brings clarity to the benefits you're experiencing. It's great to see such a significant boost in your productivity metrics with Semax. The increase in commits and deep work blocks, along with your improved focus rating, really highlight how effectively Semax can support sustained mental effort without the downsides of traditional stimulants.
It's insightful to note that you found it more stimulating than Selank. That's an important distinction for those who might be sensitive to such effects. Your protocol of cycling 5 days on and 2 off seems wise for avoiding tolerance, and it's good to hear you didn't notice any tolerance buildup over the 30 days.
If you're considering any adjustments or trying a different protocol in the future, we'd be interested in hearing how it goes. Keep up the fantastic work, and thanks for sharing your detailed experience with everyone!