Is Selank Used in Bodybuilding?
Selank is not widely recognised as a peptide used in bodybuilding, as it has not been shown to directly stimulate muscle protein synthesis, increase growth hormone levels, or activate anabolic signalling pathways. Unlike peptides such as growth hormone-releasing peptides (GHRPs), growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analogues, or insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) related compounds, Selank has mainly been studied for its effects on anxiety regulation, neurochemistry, and cognitive function [1,2].
Despite this, Selank has generated interest in some bodybuilding communities, as psychological factors can influence training performance, recovery processes, and exercise consistency. Human studies have indicated that Selank produced anxiolytic effects comparable to medazepam, while also exhibiting anti-asthenic and mild psychostimulant properties [3]. Reducing mental fatigue, improving stress coping, and enhancing cognitive resilience could theoretically support adherence to training and recovery plans. However, these benefits remain hypothetical, as no studies have been published directly assessing Selank's impact on muscle gain, strength development, physical performance, body composition, or athletic recovery.
Experimental studies also suggest that Selank may affect brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression and modulate neurotransmitter systems involved in stress response and cognitive function [1,4]. While neuroplasticity and stress resilience may support general well-being, there is currently no evidence to suggest that these mechanisms directly enhance muscle hypertrophy, physical performance, or bodybuilding effects.
Based on currently available data, Selank does not appear to play a direct anabolic role in bodybuilding. Its potential significance is primarily related to its studied effects on stress regulation, anxiety reduction, and cognitive function, rather than muscle development or physique enhancement.
Does Selank affect libido?
Currently, no clinical studies have been published that directly assess the impact of Selank on libido, sexual desire, or sexual performance.
However, certain observations have sparked theoretical interest in this issue. Research indicates that Selank modulates GABAergic signalling and affects neurochemical pathways involved in emotion regulation [1]. Furthermore, clinical studies have shown an improvement in anxiety and asthenia symptoms, including a reduction in mental fatigue and an improvement in overall well-being [3]. As chronic stress and anxiety can negatively impact sexual well-being, some individuals may indirectly experience changes in libido as a result of reduced emotional burden.
Currently, however, there is no.
Current data do not allow Selank to be classified as either a libido-enhancing peptide or a substance that lowers sexual drive. Any reported changes in sexual well-being are anecdotal and have not been confirmed in controlled scientific studies.
Are there benefits of Selank for looksmaxing?
The term „looksmaxing” typically refers to actions aimed at improving physical appearance, including facial aesthetics, skin quality, body composition, hair growth, or overall attractiveness. Currently, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that Selank directly enhances any of these features.
Most research on Selank has focused on its anxiolytic, neurochemical, and cognitive effects, rather than any cosmetic benefits [1–3]. Available studies have not shown Selank to stimulate collagen synthesis, alter skin structure, promote hair growth, increase muscle mass, or directly affect body composition.
However, there are several indirect factors that may explain Selank's interest within appearance enhancement communities. Chronic stress and anxiety can negatively impact sleep quality, facial expressions, emotional well-being, and overall appearance. Human studies suggest that Selank may reduce anxiety and improve subjective well-being without causing significant sedation [3]. Theoretically, better emotional regulation and reduced stress levels could contribute to a more rested and relaxed appearance. These effects, however, remain speculative and have not been formally evaluated as cosmetic outcomes in scientific studies.
The data currently available do not support the use of Selank as a cosmetic, anti-ageing or appearance-enhancing peptide. Its properties, as studied, relate primarily to the reduction of anxiety, the modulation of stress and cognitive function, rather than to any direct improvement in physical characteristics.
Disclaimer
The content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as medical advice, diagnosis, therapeutic recommendations, or claims of efficacy. Selank has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the European Medicines Agency (EMA), or most other regulatory bodies for uses related to bodybuilding, athletic performance enhancement, libido modification, cosmetic applications, or any other medical indications. Most available data comes from preclinical research and a limited number of human studies, focusing primarily on anxiety, neuroregulation, and cognitive functions. Additional, well-designed clinical trials are needed to clarify whether Selank exerts a measurable impact on physical performance, sexual well-being, or appearance-related aspects.
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] 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.
[3] Zozulia, A. A., Neznamov, G. G., Siuniakov, T. S., Kost, N. V., Gabaeva, M. V., Sokolov, O. Y., Serebriakova, E. V., Siranchieva, O. A., Andriushenko, A. V., Telesheva, E. S., Siuniakov, S. A., Smulevich, A. B., Myasoedov, N. F., & Seredenin, S. B. (2008). Efficacy and possible mechanisms of action of a new peptide anxiolytic Selank in the therapy of generalised anxiety disorders and neurasthenia. The Korsakov Journal of Neurology and Psychiatry, 108(4), 38-48. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18454096/
[4] 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