Back to All Peptides
🧬

VIP

Also known as: Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide, Vasoactive Intestinal Polypeptide

The Neuroprotective Gut-Brain Peptide

Multi-system peptide with powerful anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. Researched for CIRS (mold illness), gut disorders, and neurodegeneration.

Research🧠 Cognitive🩹 Healing🛡️ Immune👃 Nasal Sprays👃 Also available as nasal spray

How It Works

VIPbinds toGrowth ReceptortriggersTissue Repair123

Simple Explanation

Reduces inflammation throughout the body, protects neurons, and regulates gut and immune function.

Technical Details

28-amino acid peptide acting on VPAC1/VPAC2 receptors. Modulates cAMP signaling, reduces inflammatory cytokines, and provides neuroprotection via multiple pathways.

Pharmacokinetics & Storage

Half-Life

~2 minutes (rapid degradation)

Duration in circulation

Storage Requirements

Before use: Store lyophilized at -4°F to 39°F (-20°C to 4°C)
After reconstitution: Use within 2 weeks when refrigerated

Very fragile peptide. Handle carefully. Nasal delivery bypasses rapid degradation.

Benefits

  • Powerful anti-inflammatory effects
  • Neuroprotection
  • Gut barrier support
  • Immune system regulation
  • May help CIRS/mold illness
  • Circadian rhythm support

Potential Side Effects

Diarrhea

Occasional

VIP relaxes smooth muscle

mild

Flushing

Occasional

mild

Low blood pressure

Rare

VIP is a vasodilator

moderate

Nasal congestion

Common (nasal)

mild

Research Highlights

CIRS Treatment (2013)

Improved symptoms in chronic inflammatory response syndrome patients

View Study

Neuroprotection (2006)

Protected neurons from various toxic insults in animal models

View Study

IBD Research (2010)

Reduced intestinal inflammation in colitis models

View Study

Long COVID Pilot Study (2024)

Preliminary data suggests potential benefit for post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (Long COVID)

View Study

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CIRS?
Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome, often triggered by mold exposure. VIP is part of the Shoemaker protocol for treatment.
Why nasal administration?
VIP is rapidly degraded in blood. Nasal delivery allows direct brain access and avoids first-pass metabolism.
Can VIP help gut issues?
Research suggests it may help inflammatory bowel conditions by reducing gut inflammation and supporting the intestinal barrier.

Who Is It For

  • CIRS/mold illness patients
  • Chronic inflammatory conditions
  • Gut health issues
  • Neuroinflammation
  • Autoimmune support

Who Should Avoid

  • Low blood pressure
  • Those on blood pressure medications
  • Pregnant/nursing
  • Diarrhea-prone individuals

Research Dosing Protocols

Common Research Protocol

50-200mcg intranasally, 1-4x daily

Administration Frequency (per studies)

1-4 times daily depending on condition

Delivery Methods

nasalsubcutaneousintravenous

👃 This peptide is also available in nasal spray form from select suppliers.

Available Forms

  • • Nasal spray (most common)
  • • Subcutaneous injection
  • • IV (clinical)

💡 Often used as part of CIRS protocol. Start low and titrate up.

⚠️ Not Medical Advice: Dosing information is compiled from published research and clinical studies for educational purposes only. This is not a recommendation. All peptide research should be conducted by qualified professionals in controlled research environments. Consult a healthcare provider before considering any protocol.

Where to Buy

Looking for quality VIP? Check our vetted suppliers.

View Trusted Suppliers

Related Peptides

🩹BPC-157

The biohacking community's darling for healing injuries. Derived from gastric juice, it's famed for tendon, ligament, and gut repair.

🛡️Thymosin Alpha-1

Approved in 35+ countries for immune support. Used alongside cancer treatments and for chronic infections.

Pairs Well With

🩹BPC-157
Learn about stacking →

⚠️ Important Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Many peptides discussed are research compounds not approved for human use by the FDA. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any peptide protocol. PepGains does not sell peptides and is not responsible for how this information is used. All timeline and efficacy information is based on published research and clinical trials - individual results may vary significantly.