WHAT IS DIHEXA?
DIHEXA is a peptide variant derived from angiotensin IV. Clinical studies suggest that DIHEXA improves cognitive function as shown in animal models of disease such as Alzheimer’s. Angiotensin IV is a derivative of the vasoconstrictor angiotensin II which has been shown in animal studies to enhance acquisition, consolidation and recall of learning and memory when administered centrally or peripherally. In an assay of neurotrophic activity, DIHEXA was found to be seven orders of magnitude more potent than brain-derived neurotrophic factor and is thought may be able to help in the repair of the brain and nerves in neurological disease.

WHAT IS THE CLINICAL RESEARCH?
Benoist CC, Kawas LH, Zhu M, 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 Nov;351(2):390-402. doi: 10.1124/jpet. 114.218735. Epub 2014 Sep 3
A subset of angiotensin IV (AngIV)–related molecules are known to possess procognitive/antidementia properties and have been considered as templates for potential therapeutics. However, this potential has not been realized because of two factors: 1) a lack of blood-brain barrier–penetrant analogs, and 2) the absence of a validated mechanism of action. The pharmacokinetic barrier has recently been overcome with the synthesis of the orally active, blood-brain barrier–permeable analog N-hexanoic-tyrosine- isoleucine-(6) aminohexanoic amide (dihexa). Therefore, the goal of this study was to elucidate the mechanism that underlies dihexa’s procognitive activity. Here, we demonstrate that dihexa binds with high affinity to hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and both dihexa and its parent compound Norleucine 1-AngIV (Nle1-AngIV) induce c-Met phosphorylation in the presence of subthreshold concentrations of HGF and augment HGF-dependent cell scattering. Further, dihexa and Nle1-AngIV induce hippocampal spinogenesis and synaptogenesis similar to HGF itself. These actions were inhibited by an HGF antagonist and a short hairpin RNA directed at c-Met. Most importantly, the procognitive/antidementia capacity of orally delivered dihexa was blocked by an HGF antagonist delivered intracerebroventricularly as measured using the Morris water maze task of spatial learning.

RECOMMENDED USE
DEHEXA comes as a cream or capsule. For the cream, it is suggested to apply 0.5-1 mL (2-4 clicks) to inner forearm daily, rub in until absorbed. For capsule form, it is suggested to take 1 capsule by mouth daily.

HOW TO OBTAIN
An initial in person session is required before telemedicine can be utilized. A one month’s supply will be prescribed during the first session. A three week follow up will be recommended to discuss labs ordered and how you’re feeling. You’ll have the option at this point re-up and have up to a two month’s supply ordered before and future visits are needed.

COST
Office Visit + $400 for a one month’s supply (Cream)

Please click HERE to schedule online! Please note, our SCW Medical schedule is where you’ll find the option to schedule this service 🙂