Lactoferrin vs VIP
A side-by-side research comparison of Lactoferrin and VIP across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Lactoferrin | VIP |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Lactoferrin (Iron-Binding Glycoprotein) | Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide |
| Category | Immune Support | Immune Support |
| Status | Dietary supplement (GRAS) | Research compound |
| Mechanism | Sequesters iron from pathogens (bacteriostatic), directly disrupts bacterial membranes, activates NK cells and macrophages, and modulates inflammatory cytokines. | Activates VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors, raising intracellular cAMP. This dampens pro-inflammatory cytokine production, supports vasodilation and pulmonary function, and modulates regulatory T-cell activity. |
| Molecular weight | 80000 Da | ~3326 Da |
| Half-life | ~4-8 hours (oral absorption of fragments) | Very short (~1-2 minutes in plasma) |
| Bioavailability | ~15-25% (oral, as bioactive fragments) | Intranasal (most common in protocols); rapidly degraded systemically |
| Typical dose | 200-600 mg | ~50 mcg per spray |
| Frequency | 1-2x daily | 1-4x daily |
| Route | Oral capsule or powder | Intranasal spray |
Lactoferrin reported benefits
- Broad antimicrobial activity
- Iron homeostasis regulation
- Gut immune support
- Anti-biofilm properties
- Prebiotic effects
VIP reported benefits
- Broad anti-inflammatory effect
- Supports pulmonary and vascular function
- Immune modulation (regulatory T cells)
- Used in chronic inflammatory response protocols
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.