Quick Facts

Chemical Name
Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide
Also Known As
Vasoactive Intestinal Polypeptide
Category
Immune & Inflammation
Administration
Intranasal spray is most common

What is VIP?

Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP) is a 28-amino acid neuropeptide found in the gut, nervous system, and immune tissues. It has broad regulatory functions including vasodilation, anti-inflammation, immune modulation, and neuroprotection. VIP has gained attention in chronic inflammatory response syndrome (CIRS) treatment and is being researched for autoimmune conditions, pulmonary hypertension, and neurodegenerative diseases.

How Does VIP Work?

VIP acts through VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors, which are G-protein coupled receptors found throughout the body. Activation triggers increased cAMP, leading to smooth muscle relaxation (vasodilation), reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines, enhanced regulatory T-cell function, and neuroprotective effects. VIP also regulates circadian rhythms and stimulates water and electrolyte secretion.

Research-Backed Benefits

Anti-Inflammatory

Strong Evidence

Potently reduces inflammatory cytokines and promotes immune tolerance.

CIRS Treatment

Moderate Evidence

Used in chronic inflammatory response syndrome protocols.

Vasodilation

Moderate Evidence

Relaxes blood vessels, potentially benefiting cardiovascular health.

Neuroprotection

Emerging Research

May protect against neurodegeneration and support brain health.

Dosage Guidelines

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. Peptides are research compounds not approved by the FDA for human use. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider.

Typical Range
50-500 mcg per dose (nasal administration common)
Frequency
4 times daily typical for CIRS protocols
Duration
4-8 weeks or longer depending on condition

Intranasal administration is most common. Requires refrigeration. Blood pressure monitoring recommended.

Side Effects & Safety

  • Nasal congestion or irritation
  • Low blood pressure possible
  • Diarrhea at higher doses
  • Flushing

Frequently Asked Questions

VIP is primarily used for chronic inflammatory conditions, particularly CIRS (chronic inflammatory response syndrome). It's also researched for autoimmune diseases and pulmonary hypertension.
VIP reduces inflammatory markers, regulates immune function, and helps restore normal immune tolerance. It's typically used after other interventions have reduced biotoxin exposure.
VIP has a good safety profile when used appropriately. Main concerns are blood pressure effects, so monitoring is recommended, especially initially.

References

  1. Delgado M, Ganea D. "VIP as an immune regulator." Brain Behav Immun, 2013. PMID: 23159879

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