Dihexa

Research Only

Nootropic Peptides · Cognitive Enhancement

Dihexa is an oligopeptide derived from angiotensin IV that has demonstrated extraordinary cognitive enhancement properties in animal studies — reportedly 10 million times more potent than BDNF at promoting neuronal connectivity.

What is Dihexa?

Dihexa is an oligopeptide derived from angiotensin IV that has demonstrated extraordinary cognitive enhancement properties in animal studies — reportedly 10 million times more potent than BDNF at promoting neuronal connectivity. It is being investigated for Alzheimer's disease and cognitive decline.

Also known as: N-hexanoic-Tyr-Ile-(6) aminohexanoic amide

How Does Dihexa Work?

Binds to hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) receptor c-Met, potentiating HGF/c-Met signaling. This promotes synaptogenesis (new synapse formation), neuronal connectivity, and neuroplasticity. Enhances memory consolidation and retrieval through augmented neural network formation.

What is Dihexa Used For?

  • Cognitive enhancement
  • Memory improvement
  • Neuroprotection
  • Alzheimer's research

Potential Side Effects

  • Limited human data
  • Headache (reported)
  • Overstimulation (theoretical)

Contraindications

  • Active cancer (HGF/c-Met pathway)
  • Pregnancy
  • Children

FDA Legal Status

United States — FDA

Research Only

This peptide is currently investigational and not approved for clinical use.

Related Peptides

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dihexa really 10 million times more potent than BDNF?
This claim comes from a 2013 study showing Dihexa was 10 million times more potent than BDNF at promoting synaptogenesis in vitro. This is a measure of potency (amount needed), not overall effectiveness. It remains a research compound with limited human data.
Is Dihexa safe?
Human safety data for Dihexa is extremely limited. Its activation of the HGF/c-Met pathway is a concern because this pathway is involved in cancer cell growth and metastasis. Anyone with cancer or cancer risk factors should avoid it. Use only under medical supervision.

Quick Facts

Legal Status (USA)
Research Only
Evidence Rating
CPreliminary Evidence (Mostly Preclinical)
Class / Subclass
Nootropic Peptides / Cognitive Enhancement
Administration
oral, subcutaneous, nasal
Typical Dosage
5-20mg oral; 1-5mg subcutaneous
Half-Life
~4-6 hours
Year Discovered
2013

Last updated: 2026-04-01

Sources & references

Primary sources used for the dosing, mechanism, side-effect, and regulatory claims on this page. Verify time-sensitive information (regulatory status, prescribing details) on the source before relying on it for medical decisions. See our disclaimer.

  1. PubMed PMID 24140580 — peer-reviewed primary literature on Dihexa.
  2. FDA Federal Register — official notice record for FDA regulatory actions and Category 1 / 503A bulk-substance updates.