New — Free Peptide Starter Guide (2026): 13 chapters, 34 cited studies

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VIP

Also known as: Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide, VIP Peptide, Vasoactive Intestinal Polypeptide

VIP is a 28-amino acid neuropeptide with profound anti-inflammatory, vasodilatory, and immunomodulatory effects. It plays a critical role in gut motility, circadian rhythm, and immune tolerance. Used therapeutically for CIRS (Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome), MCAS, and inflammatory conditions.

Half-Life

~2 minutes in plasma (rapidly degraded by peptidases); intranasal delivery may extend local CNS effects

Route

Intranasal, SubQ, IV

Category

Immune Support, Sleep Optimization

Studies

50 references

Key Benefits

  • Potent anti-inflammatory for CIRS and mold illness
  • Improves pulmonary hypertension symptoms
  • Regulates gut motility and IBS symptoms
  • Modulates circadian rhythm and sleep quality
  • Reduces mast cell activation (MCAS)
  • Improves cognitive function in neuroinflammatory conditions
  • Vasodilatory — reduces vascular resistance

Mechanism of Action

VIP binds VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors, which are expressed throughout the brain, gut, immune system, and lungs. It activates cAMP signaling to inhibit NF-κB, reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-12), and promote regulatory T-cell (Treg) differentiation. In the gut, VIP regulates motility and intestinal secretion. In the CNS, VIP neurons in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) are central pacemakers for circadian rhythm. It is also a potent pulmonary vasodilator.

Dosing Protocols

CIRS / Inflammation Protocol (Shoemaker)

Dose
50 mcg (4 sprays of 12.5 mcg each)
Frequency
4x daily
Timing
Intranasal, spaced throughout the day
Cycle
Until VIP levels normalize (weeks to months)

Must follow Shoemaker protocol steps; check MSH and VEGF levels first

Pulmonary Hypertension / Research

Dose
100–200 mcg
Frequency
Twice to 3x daily
Timing
Intranasal
Cycle
4–12 weeks

Inhaled or intranasal preferred over IV for outpatient use

Calculate your draw volume

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Side Effects

  • Facial flushing (transient, intranasal)
  • Mild nausea
  • Headache at initiation
  • Hypotension at high doses
  • Rare: tachycardia

Contraindications

Use with caution in hypotension or cardiovascular disease. Should not be used without addressing underlying triggers (mold exposure, infections) per Shoemaker protocol.

Storage

Store lyophilized at -20°C. Once reconstituted, intranasal solution stored at 4°C, use within 30 days. Protect from heat and light.

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Medical disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Many compounds listed are research chemicals not approved for human use. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any protocol.

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