DSIP vs AHK-Cu
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
- Summary
- DSIP is an endogenous neuropeptide originally isolated from rabbit cerebrospinal fluid that induces delta-wave (deep) sleep. It also modulates stress response, cortisol regulation, and LH secretion, making it valuable for sleep optimization and stress management.
- AHK-Cu is a copper tripeptide composed of alanine, histidine, and lysine chelated to copper. Distinct from GHK-Cu, AHK-Cu exhibits strong affinity for hair follicle receptors and demonstrates potent hair growth stimulation alongside wound healing and skin regeneration properties.
- Half-Life
- ~30–60 minutes; however downstream sleep effects last 4–6 hours
- Hours (topical, variable by formulation)
- Admin Route
- SubQ, IV, Intranasal
- Topical, Scalp application, Subcutaneous (research)
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 100–400 mcg
- 0.01–0.1% concentration
- Frequency
- Once nightly
- Once or twice daily
- Key Benefits
- Induces and deepens delta-wave (slow-wave) sleep
- Reduces cortisol and normalizes HPA axis
- Improves sleep quality in insomnia patients
- Anti-stress and anxiolytic effects
- May improve opiate/alcohol withdrawal symptoms
- Analgesic properties through opioid modulation
- Antioxidant and neuroprotective effects
- Stimulates hair follicle growth and reduces shedding
- Increases dermal papilla cell proliferation
- Promotes wound healing and skin regeneration
- Antioxidant protection via superoxide dismutase activation
- Improves skin elasticity and firmness
- Supports collagen and elastin production
- Side Effects
- Generally well tolerated
- Mild grogginess next morning at higher doses
- Rare: hypotension
- Potential for altered dream patterns
- Generally well-tolerated topically
- Mild scalp irritation or redness in sensitive individuals
- Possible temporary hair shedding phase at treatment initiation
- Copper accumulation with excessive systemic use (rare)
- Stacks With
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