VIP
Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide with broad anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects
Clinical Research Score: 3/5 — Its drug form aviptadil has been tested in human trials (with mixed results), and inhaled VIP has small studies, but evidence remains limited.
Categories: Immune Support, Mental / Cognitive
What is VIP?
VIP is the peptide that people with mysterious chronic illness often describe as life-changing. If you've been dealing with chronic fatigue, persistent brain fog, sensitivity to mold or environmental toxins, or a general sense that your body's inflammatory system is stuck "on" — VIP may be the intervention that finally makes a difference.
People with Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) report the most dramatic results. Cognitive function improves — the brain fog lifts. Energy returns. Sensitivity to previously intolerable environments decreases. Shortness of breath improves. Sleep normalizes. For many, VIP is the final step in a CIRS treatment protocol that delivers the most profound symptom relief.
Beyond CIRS, VIP has broad anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects that benefit anyone dealing with chronic inflammation. Its role as both a neurotransmitter and immune modulator makes it unusually versatile. The nasal spray delivery is most common, providing direct access to the brain and systemic circulation.
How VIP works
VIP activates two receptor types (VPAC1 and VPAC2) throughout the body and brain. It shuts down the NF-kB inflammatory pathway, reduces production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and promotes the development of regulatory T-cells (the immune cells that prevent excessive inflammation). In the brain, it supports neural repair and acts as a neuroprotective agent. It also regulates blood vessel tone, airway function, and circadian rhythm — making it one of the most broadly acting peptides in the body.
Scientific overview
VIP (Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide) is a 28-amino acid neuropeptide found throughout the body. It acts as a neurotransmitter and neuromodulator with potent anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and neuroprotective properties. VIP has been studied in chronic inflammatory response syndrome (CIRS), multiple sclerosis, and various autoimmune conditions.
Dosing
- Starting dose: 50 mcg per dose (nasal)
- Common dosage range: 50-100 mcg per dose
- Administration: Subcutaneous, Nasal
- Half-life: ~1-2 minutes (plasma) but tissue effects persist
- Frequency: 2-4x daily