Nasal peptides

Porcine-brain-derived neuropeptide preparation used decades-long in Austrian, Russian, and Eastern European stroke / TBI / dementia clinical practice. Bornstein 2018 meta-analysis + CARS stroke trial (Muresanu 2016) are the canonical evidence base. IV / IM. Not FDA-approved in the US.

Nonapeptide. FDA-approved IV for labor induction; off-label intranasal use for social bonding, sexual response, and autism research. Heinrichs trust-game studies are foundational. Context-dependent: chronic stress, attachment style, and partner dynamics modulate response substantially.

7-amino-acid synthetic analog of tuftsin developed in Russia for generalized anxiety. Acts on enkephalin-degrading enzymes; produces calm without sedation, no withdrawal syndrome. Prescription drug in Russia/CIS, research-only in US/EU. Standard delivery is intranasal spray for fast onset.

Synthetic α-MSH analog with broad melanocortin-receptor agonism. Originally researched for tanning; off-label use for libido and skin pigmentation. Documented case reports of fatal cardiac events, severe priapism, rhabdomyolysis. Banned for human use in UK, Australia, New Zealand. NOT recommended.

Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) mimetic and angiotensin IV analog. Animal data shows ~7 orders of magnitude greater synaptogenic potency than BDNF. Crosses BBB. Research-only. Concern: HGF mimetics carry theoretical oncogenic risk — nasal route may localize exposure better than oral.

Small CNTF-derived peptide that stimulates hippocampal neurogenesis in mouse models. Mechanistic interest in cognitive aging and Alzheimer's research. No human clinical trials. Research compound only; not therapeutically established.

Bremelanotide. Melanocortin receptor agonist FDA-approved as Vyleesi for hypoactive sexual desire disorder in premenopausal women. Off-label use in men and post-menopausal women is common; mechanism is central rather than vascular. Subcutaneous; ~6h onset.

A synthetic heptapeptide derived from ACTH(4-7) with a C-terminal Pro-Gly-Pro motif for peptidase resistance. Developed in Russia; used clinically there for ischemic stroke, ADHD, and cognitive support. Intranasal delivery is the clinical standard.