IMPORTANT: Read the Prep & Injection Guide for proper reconstitution, syringe sizing, and injection protocols. Mistakes here can compromise your research.
VIP (Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide) (Inj)
Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is a 28‑amino‑acid neuropeptide hormone with potent vasodilatory, immunomodulatory, and smooth muscle–relaxant effects. It is studied in pulmonary hypertension, sarcoidosis, inflammatory conditions, and as a neuroimmune signaling molecule. VIP is bioactive and can cause significant physiologic effects.
Dosing Protocols
No universally accepted dosing outside controlled protocols. Reported compounding/research use often involves microgram-range subcutaneous dosing with careful titration (e.g., 25–100 mcg SC daily), but this should only occur under formal oversight due to hemodynamic effects.
Benefits
- Potent vasodilation; studied in pulmonary vascular disease contexts
- Bronchodilatory effects (airway smooth muscle relaxation)
- Immunomodulation: can shift cytokine profiles toward anti-inflammatory signaling
- Potential support for gut motility and mucosal blood flow (physiologic roles)
- Neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory signaling in CNS/PNS (preclinical)
- Studied in sarcoidosis and other inflammatory lung diseases (limited evidence)
Mechanism of Action
VIP binds GPCRs VPAC1 and VPAC2 (and PAC1 with related peptides), activating adenylate cyclase → increased cAMP → smooth muscle relaxation and vasodilation. In immune cells, cAMP signaling modulates cytokine production, often reducing TNF‑α/IL‑6 and increasing IL‑10, and can influence T-cell polarization.
Side Effects
- Flushing
- Headache
- Hypotension/lightheadedness
- Tachycardia/palpitations
- Diarrhea or abdominal cramping
- Nausea
- Injection site reactions
Side Effect Management
- Start with very low dose in research settings; monitor blood pressure and heart rate
- Hydration and slow position changes to reduce orthostasis
- Avoid coadministration with other vasodilators initially
- Discontinue if significant hypotension, chest pain, or arrhythmia symptoms occur
Contraindications
- Uncontrolled hypotension
- Significant arrhythmias or unstable cardiovascular disease
- Severe diarrhea/IBD flare risk (motility effects)
- Pregnancy/breastfeeding
- Use caution with antihypertensives/vasodilators
Research Citations
PubMed/DOI-linked citations for verification. Many studies are preclinical (animal/in-vitro) or early clinical.
- Delgado M et al. Vasoactive intestinal peptide and pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide: immunomodulatory role. (review) DOI Link
- Gozes I, Brenneman DE. VIP: neuroprotective signaling mechanisms. (review) DOI Link
- Miyata A et al. VIP receptors and cAMP signaling (foundational receptor biology). DOI Link
- Said SI. VIP in pulmonary vascular disease (review). DOI Link
Research Use Only. All information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. PepSherpa does not sell peptides. Consult a licensed healthcare provider before making any health decisions. Many of the studies cited are preclinical (animal/in-vitro).
Research Use Only. All information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. PepSherpa does not sell peptides. Consult a licensed healthcare provider before making any health decisions. Many of the studies cited are preclinical (animal/in-vitro).
