Selank and SSRIs (Antidepressants)

Currently, no clinical studies have been published that evaluate the safety or efficacy of combining Selank with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as sertraline, escitalopram, fluoxetine, or paroxetine. However, available data suggest that Selank and SSRIs work through different mechanisms.

SSRIs increase serotonin activity by inhibiting its reuptake, while Selank appears to act multi-directionally, encompassing modulation of the GABA-ergic system, regulation of endogenous opioid peptides, and changes in gene expression related to neurotransmitter systems [1–4]. Experimental studies also suggest that Selank may influence monoamine pathways, including serotonin-related signaling, although the precise mechanisms remain not fully understood [1].

Because the neurochemical systems partially overlap, it is currently impossible to determine whether the combination of Selank and SSRIs is beneficial, neutral, or potentially problematic. There is no evidence to suggest that Selank causes serotonin syndrome or poses significant pharmacological interactions with antidepressants. However, a lack of evidence should not be interpreted as confirmation of safety. Individuals taking prescription antidepressants should consult with a qualified professional before considering the use of research peptides.

Can Selank be combined with antidepressants?

From an evidence-based medicine perspective, there is currently insufficient information to formulate definitive recommendations regarding the concurrent use of Selank and antidepressants.

Interestingly, human studies suggest that Selank exhibits anxiolytic effects comparable to the benzodiazepine medazepam, while also demonstrating anti-asthenic and mild psychostimulant properties [5]. These observations have generated interest in the possibility of Selank supplementing existing psychiatric therapies. However, to date, no controlled studies have been conducted to evaluate its use as an adjunctive treatment alongside antidepressants.

Therefore, while there is currently no evidence to indicate significant adverse effects from such a combination, there is also a lack of data to recommend it as an established therapeutic strategy.

Selank and Cannabis (THC)

No clinical trials have been conducted that directly evaluate the effects of combining Selank with cannabis or tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

Potential interactions are difficult to predict because cannabis can induce highly varied effects, including relaxation, sedation, anxiolysis, cognitive impairment, or even anxiety exacerbation, depending on the individual, dose, and cannabinoid composition. In contrast, Selank has shown anxiolytic, anti-stress, and cognitive function-regulating properties in experimental and clinical studies [1,3,5].

Because both substances affect brain pathways associated with mood, anxiety, and cognitive functions, their combination could theoretically lead to additive, opposing, or unpredictable effects. Currently, there is insufficient evidence to determine whether such a combination is beneficial, neutral, or harmful.

Beer and Alcohol

No studies have been published that directly evaluate the interactions between Selank and alcohol.

Unlike benzodiazepines, Selank did not show significant sedation, muscle relaxant effects, a risk of dependence, or a significant impairment of cognitive function in clinical trials [5]. Experimental studies even suggest that Selank may partially attenuate certain sedative effects induced by diazepam and olanzapine in animal models [6].

However, alcohol itself significantly affects GABAergic signaling, cognitive function, reaction time, and situational judgment. As Selank also appears to modulate GABA receptor function through positive allosteric modulation [1], the effects of combining alcohol with Selank have not been adequately characterized. Therefore, evidence-based conclusions regarding the safety or efficacy of such a combination cannot currently be drawn.

A Party After Drugs

Expression „Selank after drugs” refers to the use of Selank after consuming recreational or psychoactive substances.

Currently, there are no clinical studies evaluating Selank as a treatment for drug use, poisoning, or withdrawal from psychoactive substances. Although Selank exhibits anxiolytic and neuroregulatory properties, there is insufficient evidence to support its use in recovery from psychoactive substances, detoxification, or the alleviation of symptoms following poisoning.

The potential role of Selank in these situations remains theoretical and requires future clinical trials.

Does Selank Give You Energy?

Does Selank Boost Energy Levels?

Selank is not classified as a stimulant and does not work in the same way as caffeine, amphetamines, or other traditional stimulants. Nevertheless, some data suggest that it may indirectly improve subjectively perceived energy levels in some people.

In a randomized clinical trial involving patients with generalized anxiety disorder and neurasthenia, Selank demonstrated anxiolytic effects comparable to those of medazepam, while also exhibiting anti-asthenic and psychostimulant properties [5]. The anti-asthenic effect refers to a reduction in mental fatigue, exhaustion, and a feeling of weakness. As a result, some individuals may experience improved motivation, mental stamina, or energy levels, along with a reduction in anxiety and mental exhaustion.

It should be emphasized, however, that these observations should not be interpreted as evidence of direct stimulation of the central nervous system.

Does Selank Cause Fatigue?

Published studies do not indicate that Selank frequently causes fatigue or sedation.

One of the features that distinguishes Selank from many traditional anti-anxiety medications is its favorable tolerability profile. Clinical studies have demonstrated anxiolytic effects without significant sedation, muscle weakness, risk of dependence, or cognitive impairment, which are often observed with benzodiazepines [5].

Animal studies further suggest that Selank may limit the decrease in motor activity induced by diazepam and olanzapine [6]. These.

Does Selank Cause Drowsiness?

Currently, there is no evidence to suggest that Selank consistently causes drowsiness.

Its anxiolytic effect may promote a sense of calm and relaxation, which some people may subjectively interpret as drowsiness, especially when experiencing high levels of anxiety or stress. However, available studies describe Selank as a peptide that produces an anxiolytic effect while preserving normal cognitive and behavioral functions [1,5].

Therefore, Selank should not be considered a sedative or sleep-inducing peptide. Its effects appear to involve emotional stabilization and a reduction in stress reactivity rather than directly inducing sedation.

Scientific Summary

Current evidence suggests that:

• Selank may indirectly improve one's subjective energy levels by reducing mental fatigue and anxiety-related symptoms.
• Selank is not considered a classic stimulant and does not appear to directly stimulate the central nervous system.
• Published studies do not indicate that Selank frequently causes significant sedation or drowsiness.
• The effects of combining Selank with SSRIs, antidepressants, cannabis, alcohol, or recreational drugs have not been adequately studied.
• More clinical studies are needed to better determine the safety and effects of these potential combinations.

Disclaimer

This content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as medical advice, a diagnosis, a treatment, or professional recommendations. Selank has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for the treatment of anxiety, fatigue, depression, or any other medical condition. Much of the available data comes from experimental studies and limited clinical trials. Information regarding interactions with medications, alcohol, cannabis, or other substances is for educational purposes only and should not replace the advice of a qualified healthcare professional.

References

[1] Vyunova, T. V., Andreeva, L., Shevchenko, K., & Myasoedov, N. F. (2018). Peptide-based anxiolytics: The molecular aspects of heptapeptide Selank biological activity. Protein and Peptide Letters, 25(10), 914-923. https://doi.org/10.2174/0929866525666180925144642

[2] Zozulya, A. A., Kost, N. V., Sokolov, O. Y., Gabaeva, M. V., Grivennikov, I. A., Andreeva, L. N., Zolotarev, Y. A., Ivanov, S. V., Andryushchenko, A. V., Myasoedov, N. F., & Smulevich, A. B. (2001). The inhibitory effect of Selank on enkephalin-degrading enzymes as a possible mechanism of its anxiolytic activity. Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine, 131, 315–317. https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1017979514274

[3] Andreeva, L. A., Nagaev, I. Y., Mezentseva, M. V., Shapoval, I. M., Podchernyaeva, R. Y., Shcherbenko, V. E., Potapova, L. A., Russu, L. I., Ershov, F. I., & Myasoedov, N. F. (2010). Antiviral properties of structural fragments of the peptide Selank. Doklady Biological Sciences, 431, 79–82. https://doi.org/10.1134/S0012496610020031

[4] Levitskaya, N. G., Andreeva, L. A., Mezentseva, M. V., Shapoval, I. M., Podchernyaeva, R. Y., Shcherbenko, V. E., Potapova, L. A., Russu, L. I., Ershov, F. I., & Myasoedov, N. F. (2010). Intranasal administration of the peptide Selank regulates BDNF expression in the rat hippocampus in vivo. Doklady Biological Sciences, 431, 79–82.

[5] Zozulia, A. A., Neznamov, G. G., Siuniakov, T. S., Kost, N. V., Gabaeva, M. V., Sokol. Journal of Neurology and Psychiatry named after S.S. Korsakov, 108(4), 38-48. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18454096/

[6] Kost, N. V., Sokolov, O. Y., Zozulya, S. A., & Myasoedov, N. F. (2025). Combined action of benzodiazepine tranquilizers and peptide anxiolytic Selank in BALB/c mice. Neurochemical Journal, 19, 743–748. https://doi.org/10.1134/S1819712425700783