VIP (Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide)
A 28-amino-acid signaling peptide found throughout the nervous and immune systems. Studied for its anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects, and used intranasally in some chronic inflammatory protocols (e.g. CIRS / mold-illness frameworks).
How it works
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.
Key facts
- Molecular weight: ~3326 Da
- Half-life: Very short (~1-2 minutes in plasma)
- Bioavailability: Intranasal (most common in protocols); rapidly degraded systemically
- Storage: Refrigerate (2-8°C). Keep nasal preparations cold and use within the labeled window.
Dosing overview
- Typical dose: ~50 mcg per spray
- Frequency: 1-4x daily
- Duration: Weeks to months
- Route: Intranasal spray
Protocol notes
- Commonly delivered intranasally, often starting at 1 spray daily and increasing as tolerated.
- Used in some chronic-inflammatory protocols after other root causes are addressed.
- Blood pressure can drop transiently, so initial doses are taken cautiously.
Reported benefits
- Broad anti-inflammatory effect
- Supports pulmonary and vascular function
- Immune modulation (regulatory T cells)
- Used in chronic inflammatory response protocols
Possible side effects
- Transient drop in blood pressure
- Flushing
- Nasal irritation (intranasal)
- Lightheadedness
Research
- VIP as an immunomodulatory neuropeptide (2019): Reviewed VIP's role in shifting immune responses toward an anti-inflammatory, tolerogenic profile.
- Intranasal VIP in chronic inflammatory illness (2018): Reported improvements in inflammatory markers and quality of life in observational use.
Compare VIP
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.