VIP
Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide
28-amino acid neuropeptide with remarkable anti-inflammatory lung-protective and cognitive properties. Significant research interest for Long COVID and chronic inflammatory response syndrome.
Mechanism of action
Binds VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors. Vasodilatory anti-inflammatory with potent IL-6 and TNF-alpha reduction. Neuroprotective and bronchodilatory. Regulates circadian rhythm via suprachiasmatic nucleus. Short half-life of approximately 2 minutes IV requires specialized delivery.
Effects in the body
VIP is one of the most multifunctional peptides in human biology protecting lungs calming inflammatory states and supporting cognitive function. The Long COVID and mast cell activation research interest is significant — dysregulated VIP appears in some post-COVID inflammatory states.
Pros & cons (from the literature)
- Powerful anti-inflammatory with lung protection properties
- Studied for Long COVID and mast cell activation syndrome
- Neuroprotective and circadian-regulating effects
- Intranasal administration viable
- Addresses multiple disease pathways simultaneously
- Very short half-life of 2 minutes IV — delivery is a significant challenge
- Vasodilation can cause blood pressure drops
- RUO status with complex regulatory history
- Complex dosing requirements
- Research interest ahead of clinical evidence
Protocol summary (from published research)
Dosing ranges reproduced from published research literature. Not a prescription, not medical advice.
FDA & regulatory status
Evidence base
Extensive preclinical data. Human pilot studies in CIPA and Long COVID. Shoemaker published multiple observational studies. Mechanism well established scientifically.
Primary research sources
Peer-reviewed literature referenced throughout this profile is drawn from PubMed, Cell Metabolism, and clinical trial registries cited in the evidence base above.