Sleep & Bruxism
Selank & DSIP
Tuftsin Analogue · Delta Sleep Inducing Peptide
Two peptides that address the neurological root drivers of nocturnal bruxism — stress physiology and fragmented sleep architecture — by modulating GABAergic pathways and promoting deep, restorative slow-wave sleep.
What It Is & How It Works
What is Selank?
Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide analogue of the immunomodulatory tetrapeptide tuftsin, developed and clinically studied for anxiolytic, nootropic, and neurotrophic effects. It modulates GABAergic and serotonergic systems, reduces anxiety without sedation or dependency risk, and upregulates BDNF — promoting neural resilience and stress tolerance.
What is DSIP?
Delta Sleep Inducing Peptide (DSIP) is a neuropeptide that promotes slow-wave (delta) sleep architecture by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. Deep slow-wave sleep is the phase of greatest muscle relaxation — restoring it is directly relevant to reducing nocturnal jaw muscle hypertonicity and bruxism intensity.
Bruxism & TMJ application
Nocturnal bruxism is significantly driven by stress-related sympathetic activation and fragmented sleep architecture. By reducing anxiety and improving slow-wave sleep, Selank and DSIP address these root drivers — reducing the intensity and frequency of nocturnal parafunction that causes tooth wear and progressive TMJ degeneration.
Key Benefits
- Reduces anxiety and chronic stress without sedation, dependency, or cognitive dulling
- Increases slow-wave (delta) sleep duration — the phase of greatest jaw muscle relaxation
- Reduces intensity and frequency of nocturnal bruxism episodes
- Lowers mechanical loading on the TMJ and masticatory muscles during sleep
- Upregulates BDNF — supporting neural resilience and stress adaptation
- Works synergistically with occlusal splint therapy and TMJ functional treatment
Key Benefits
Intranasal Spray — Selank
1–2 times daily · rapid CNS access via olfactory pathway · most effective delivery route
Intranasal Spray — DSIP
Administered in the evening before sleep · fast CNS onset via nasal mucosa
Subcutaneous Injection — DSIP
Alternative delivery for DSIP · slightly higher bioavailability than intranasal
Note: Selank is most effectively delivered via intranasal spray, providing rapid CNS access through the olfactory pathway. DSIP is administered in the evening before sleep. Your provider will prescribe the appropriate delivery method and timing based on your bruxism severity and sleep profile.
Possible Side Effects
- Mild nasal irritation (intranasal route — usually transient)
- Vivid or intense dreams initially
- Rare: mild drowsiness in first 1–2 weeks (DSIP)
- Rare: temporary mood shift in adaptation period
Important: Selank has been studied in multiple human clinical trials in Russia with no serious adverse events and no observed dependency or withdrawal. DSIP has a favorable safety profile in available human research. Unlike benzodiazepines or sleep medications, neither peptide suppresses REM sleep or causes rebound insomnia on discontinuation.
What to Expect
Many patients report improved sleep quality and reduced morning jaw pain within 2–3 weeks of consistent use. Bruxism reduction is often noticed by bed partners and confirmed at dental recall through reduced wear patterns. Used as part of your complete TMJ management plan — alongside occlusal appliances and any other functional treatments — for maximal benefit.
Regulatory Status
Selank and DSIP are available as compounded peptides through FDA-regulated compounding pharmacies and are prescribed off-label. Selank has been studied in registered clinical trials. Your provider will review full regulatory status and provide complete informed consent before initiating any protocol.