VIP Overview
Mechanism of Action
Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP) is a 28-amino-acid neuropeptide acting as potent vasodilator and immunomodulator. It binds VPAC1/VPAC2 receptors, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-12), shifting immune balance from Th1 to Th2, and promoting regulatory T cell activity. Also supports pulmonary function by reducing pulmonary artery pressure.
~1–2 minutes (tissue effects persist longer)
Timing
Spaced throughout day if intranasal; morning if SQ
Injection Site
Subcutaneous or intranasal
Food
No restrictions
Common Stacks
- LL-37 — Antimicrobial + immune modulation
- BPC-157 — Tissue repair synergy
- Thymosin Alpha-1 — Immune restoration
VIP Dosing Protocol
Standard Protocol
4–8 weeks50–100 mcg SQ daily
Can also be intranasal.
CIRS Protocol
As prescribed50 mcg intranasal 4x daily
Per Shoemaker protocol for chronic inflammatory response syndrome.
VIP Expected Timeline
Week 1–2
Reduced inflammatory symptoms
Week 3–4
Improved respiratory function
Month 1–2
Sustained immune modulation
VIP Side Effects
Nasal congestion (intranasal)
Diarrhea
Facial flushing
Hypotension (rare)
VIP Research Studies
VIP as a new drug for inflammatory disorders
Delgado M, Pozo D, Ganea D — Mol Med (2004)
Comprehensive review of VIP's anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory mechanisms across multiple inflammatory disease models.
PubMed: 15014400VIP FAQ
Why is VIP used for mold illness/CIRS?
Dr. Shoemaker’s CIRS protocol uses intranasal VIP to address dysregulated inflammation. VIP reduces pulmonary artery pressure, normalizes C4a, TGF-β1, and VEGF.
Why is VIP’s half-life so short?
Rapidly degraded by dipeptidyl peptidase IV. However, receptor binding triggers cAMP cascades that persist well beyond plasma clearance.