Prostamax is a synthetic tetrapeptide (sequence: Lys-Glu-Asp-Trp, or KEDW) developed in Russia as part of bioregulator research by the St. Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology. It’s classified as a peptide bioregulator primarily targeting prostate health, part of the broader “Khavinson peptides” family (named after Prof. Vladimir Khavinson). Unlike hormones or drugs, it works by influencing gene expression to normalize cellular function in the prostate gland.

Claimed Benefits and Uses

Prostamax is marketed (often online or in nootropic/peptide communities) for:

• Prostate health: Reducing inflammation, improving hyperplasia (BPH), enhancing urination, and supporting recovery post-prostatitis.
• Anti-aging effects: Potential telomere protection and tissue regeneration in prostate cells.
• Other: Improved sexual function, immune modulation, and antioxidant activity.

Evidence:

• Animal/Preclinical Studies: Russian studies (e.g., Khavinson et al., 2000s) show it normalizes prostate epithelium in rats with induced hyperplasia, reduces PSA levels, and inhibits 5-alpha-reductase (similar to finasteride). It reportedly shortens recovery time in prostatitis models by 2-3x.
• Human Data: Limited to small Russian clinical trials (e.g., 100-200 patients). One study claimed 70-80% improvement in BPH symptoms after 10-20 days of use. No large-scale RCTs in Western databases like PubMed (few English abstracts).
• Mechanisms (Supported by Lab Data):

Anecdotal Reports: Users on forums (e.g., Reddit’s r/Peptides, Longecity) report better urine flow and libido at 100-600mcg/day, but placebo effects and variability are common.

Dosage and Administration

• Typical Protocol: Subcutaneous injection, 100-200mcg/day for 10-20 days, 2-3 cycles/year (with breaks).
• Oral/Capsule: Less bioavailable; some products claim 20-50mg/day.
• Stacking: Often with Vitaprost (prostate extract) or Samprost.

Side Effects and Safety

• Reported: Minimal; rare injection-site irritation, headaches, or transient PSA fluctuations.
• Risks: Unregulated sourcing risks contamination (heavy metals, bacteria). Not FDA-approved; GRAS status unverified. Theoretical androgenic effects could affect PSA tests.
• Contraindications: Prostate cancer (monitor PSA), allergies to peptides.
• Legality: Research chemical in US/EU (not for human use); Schedule not controlled, but import restrictions apply.

Where to Buy and Quality Check

• Vendors: Peptide suppliers like Orovia BioLab CosmicNootropic, Limitless Life, or Russian exporters (e.g., QIAGEN analogs).
• Purity Test: HPLC/MS reports >98%; avoid if no CoA. Price: $50-150 for 10-20mg vial.

Caveats: Strongest evidence is Russian-origin; Western validation lacking. Consult a urologist before use, especially with prostate issues. Not a substitute for finasteride, tamsulosin, or saw palmetto. Track PSA and symptoms.