In plain English
Dihexa is a small, modified fragment of angiotensin IV, built to resist breakdown and reach the brain. It boosts a growth signal (HGF) that helps nerve cells form new connections. It is studied for memory loss and is used for learning and focus.
What it's used for
- Memory and learning
- Brain aging and dementia (being studied)
- Recovery after brain injury (being studied)
Benefits
In animal studies, Dihexa restored memory in rats with brain damage or aging and greatly increased the number of new connections between nerve cells. Users report sharper memory, faster recall and better focus.
How it works
In simple terms: it amplifies a growth signal that helps nerve cells grow new branches and connect.
Dihexa binds hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and helps it activate its receptor, c-Met. In the brain, this drives the growth of dendritic spines, the contact points between nerve cells where memories are stored.
Development history
- 2010s: Developed at Washington State University by Joseph Harding and Jay Wright.
- 2013: Rat studies on memory and synapse growth published.
- Later: A related compound (fosgonimeton) entered human trials for Alzheimer’s disease.
Typical protocols
There is no established human dose. These ranges are what users commonly report.
| Use | Dose | Frequency | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cognitive | 2–10 mg | Daily or a few times a week | 2–4 weeks |
Cycling
Short courses of 2–4 weeks, then a break. Users keep cycles short because of its growth effects.
Administration options
Subcutaneous injection.
Reconstitution and dosing calculator
Usually comes in 10 mg or 20 mg vials. It does not dissolve easily in water; sellers often supply it pre-mixed or suggest a small amount of a solvent. Follow the seller’s mixing instructions.
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This tool does arithmetic only. It does not choose a dose or confirm that any substance is right for you. Double-check every result against your syringe and your clinician’s instructions.
Side effects and safety
- Users report headache, irritability and poor sleep.
- HGF and c-Met also drive the growth of some cancers, so people with a personal or strong family history of cancer are usually advised to avoid it.
- No formal safety data in people.
- Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Common stacks
Semax or Selank: nasal brain peptides.
Storage
Powder: refrigerate or freeze. After mixing: refrigerate at 2–8 °C and use within about 2–3 weeks.
Compare with
- P21: another brain-growth compound, based on CNTF.
- Semax: raises BDNF, with human data from Russia.
Frequently asked questions
Is Dihexa a peptide?
It started as a peptide fragment and was chemically modified, so it sits between a peptide and a small molecule.
Why the cancer caution?
It works by boosting HGF and c-Met, a growth pathway that some tumors also use.
References
- McCoy AT, et al. Evaluation of metabolically stabilized angiotensin IV analogs as procognitive/antidementia agents. J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 2013;344(1):141-154.
- Benoist CC, et al. The procognitive and synaptogenic effects of angiotensin IV-derived peptides are dependent on activation of the hepatocyte growth factor/c-Met system. J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 2014;351(2):390-402.