VIP
Also known as: Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide, Aviptadil
Primary recreational use: Inflammatory condition support
What is VIP?
Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP) is a naturally occurring neuropeptide with a 28-amino acid sequence that has potent anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and neuroprotective properties. It binds to VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors, affecting immune function, vascular tone, and neurological health. VIP is being studied for applications in conditions such as chronic inflammatory response syndrome, pulmonary disorders, and COVID-19 related ARDS. Although VIP is not approved by the FDA, it has received Fast Track designation for specific indications, but users should be cautious of potential side effects like nausea and blood pressure changes.
Primary Benefits
Reduces inflammation. Neuroprotective effects. Improves respiratory health.
How It Works
VIP binds to VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors, activating adenylate cyclase and increasing cAMP/PKA signaling. This cascade results in anti-inflammatory effects, vasodilation, and modulation of T-cell functions. Intranasal delivery allows direct CNS access via olfactory pathways.
Safety Tips
Precautions reported in community discussions and literature. This is not a complete list.
- 1.DON'T exceed recommended dosing - maintain within 50-100 mcg daily.
- 2.NEVER use VIP if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- 3.AVOID using VIP if you have a known sensitivity to it or any of its components.
- 4.DON'T store VIP outside of recommended conditions - keep refrigerated at 2-8°C.
- 5.NEVER use without medical supervision, especially if managing conditions like CIRS.
Use Contexts
Different purposes have different protocols, dosing, and considerations
Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS)
moderate evidenceUsed in protocols for inflammatory marker correction in CIRS patients, often after completing other stages of treatment protocols.
Evidence: Studies show correction of inflammatory markers with ongoing treatment in inflammatory conditions.
The following are ranges reported in published literature and community discussions. These are NOT recommendations or medical advice.
Timing: Morning and evening
Notes: Dosing varies by protocol, continuation should be guided by medical supervision.
Community-Reported Protocols
Not recommendations: The following protocols are compiled from online communities and published literature. Pepbase does not endorse, recommend, or verify these protocols. They are provided for informational purposes only. Individual responses vary significantly. Consult a licensed medical professional before any use.
| Reported Goal | Reported Dose | Reported Frequency | Reported Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| CIRS correction | 50mcg per spray | 4x daily | Intranasal |
Pharmacokinetics
Reported Side Effects
This is not a complete list. Other side effects may occur.
Common
Serious / Rare
- Elevated TGF-β1
- Lipase elevation
Injection-Specific Warnings
- Injection site reactions
- Sterile technique required
Storage
Pulmonary disorders including COVID-19 ARDS
moderate evidenceFast Track designation for COVID-19 ARDS; explored in related pulmonary issues.
Evidence: Early-stage trials have shown potential supportive effects in ARDS by stabilizing inflammatory markers and enhancing patient outcomes.
The following are ranges reported in published literature and community discussions. These are NOT recommendations or medical advice.
Timing: As directed
Notes: High supervision required due to study setting; dosing tends to be intravenous in clinical contexts.
Pharmacokinetics
Reported Side Effects
This is not a complete list. Other side effects may occur.
Common
Serious / Rare
- Respiratory difficulty in high doses
Storage
Harm Reduction Information
Quality Concerns
- Possible contamination if sourced from unregulated suppliers
- Potential for mislabeling of concentration in compounded forms
Safety Tips
- Use bacteriostatic water for reconstitution
- Employ sterile techniques for all formulations
- Start with a lower dose to evaluate tolerance
- Rotate nasal spray nostrils to prevent irritation
- Regular monitoring of vital signs when under treatment
Warning Signs to Stop
- Severe headache
- Rapid heart rate
- Severe dizziness
Seek Medical Help Immediately If
- Developing symptoms of respiratory distress
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Severe allergic reactions
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about VIP
How long until I see effects?
Effects of VIP, especially for inflammation, may be noticed within days to weeks, but full results can take months, particularly in cases like CIRS.
What time of day should I take it?
VIP is best taken in the morning or as directed by treatment goals, as it aligns with natural circadian rhythms.
How can I minimize side effects?
To minimize side effects of VIP, start with lower doses and ensure you are under medical supervision especially for conditions like chronic inflammatory response syndrome.
Does tolerance develop?
Tolerance to VIP is not widely reported, but continuous monitoring with medical guidance is recommended to adjust dosing as needed.
How should I store it?
Store VIP in a refrigerator at 2-8°C and ensure it's compounded correctly if using nasal spray formulations.
Do I need to cycle it?
Cycling of VIP use may depend on the specific condition being treated, but some protocols allow continuous usage under medical supervision.
Reported Combinations
Compounds reported to be used alongside VIP in community discussions
BPC-157
Addresses tissue repair alongside anti-inflammatory actions.
Thymosin Alpha-1
Immune modulation enhancement.
GHK-Cu
Enhanced skin and respiratory tissue repair.
Reported Interactions
Interactions reported in literature and community discussions.
May increase risk of gastrointestinal discomfort.
Can enhance vasodilatory effect, potentially leading to hypotension.
Minor interaction, but monitor for any mood changes.
Reconstitution Calculator
100 units = 1 mL
Safety Tips
- Always consult a licensed medical professional for dosing and reconstitution instructions.
- Always double check your units. Mixing up mg and mcg can be very dangerous.
- Make sure to select your syringe type. U-100 and U-50 syringes have different units.
- Ensure you're not adding more BAC than your vial can hold. Most vials have maximum capacities listed.
This calculator is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, dosing recommendations, or safety determinations. Reference ranges shown are compiled from publicly available sources and are not a substitute for guidance from a licensed healthcare professional.
Legal Status by Region
Regulatory status varies by country
USA
Investigation
UK
Investigation
EU
Investigation
Australia
Investigation
Canada
Investigation
Explore More Research
Browse our database of peptide research information compiled from published literature and community sources.
Citations
Last updated: October 21, 2023