VIP -Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide.
 
It is a naturally occurring neurotransmitter and hormone found in the human body and other animals. Despite its name, its functions extend far beyond the intestines.
It is classified as a peptide because it is a chain of 28 amino acids. 
 
, including the gastrointestinal tract, brain, and genitals.
Smooth Muscle Relaxation: It relaxes the smooth muscles in the trachea (lungs), stomach, and gallbladder. This is crucial for processes like breathing and digestion.
Neurotransmission in the Brain: In the central nervous system, VIP influences brain activity, including regulating circadian rhythms and acting as a neuroprotectant.
Immune System Modulation: VIP has significant anti-inflammatory effects. It can suppress the inflammatory response of certain immune cells (like T-cells and macrophages) and promote the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines.
Digestive System:
Stimulates secretion of water and electrolytes from the intestine.
Inhibits gastric acid secretion in the stomach.
Promotes the secretion of bicarbonate from the pancreas, which helps neutralize stomach acid.
Endocrine System: It stimulates the release of certain hormones, such as prolactin, luteinizing hormone (LH), and growth hormone.
Metabolism: VIP influences glycogen breakdown (glycogenolysis) in the liver, helping to regulate energy availability.
 
VIP in Medical and Research Contexts
The diverse roles of VIP make it a significant target for medical research and potential therapeutic applications.
Autoimmune Diseases: Due to its potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties, VIP is being studied as a potential treatment for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and psoriasis.
Pulmonary Hypertension: Because it is a vasodilator, inhaled VIP has been investigated as a treatment for pulmonary arterial hypertension (high blood pressure in the lungs). In fact, a synthetic version of VIP (aviptadil) was approved for this use in some countries.
Erectile Dysfunction (ED): Its ability to relax smooth muscle and increase blood flow has led to research into VIP as a topical treatment for ED, often in combination with other drugs like phentolamine.
Neurodegenerative Diseases: Its role as a neuroprotectant has sparked interest in its potential for conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Research is in very early stages.
COVID-19: During the pandemic, aviptadil was given emergency use authorization in the US for the treatment of certain critically ill COVID-19 patients. The theory was that its anti-inflammatory effects could help combat the "cytokine storm" and its ability to protect lung tissue could prevent respiratory failure.
Important Considerations and Warnings
Not a "Wellness Supplement": It is crucial to understand that VIP is a powerful prescription drug and research chemical, not an over-the-counter dietary supplement.
Administration: Due to its peptide structure, it would be broken down in the stomach if taken orally. It must be administered via injection, inhalation, or intranasally under medical supervision.
Side Effects: Potential side effects can include low blood pressure (hypotension), flushing, dizziness, tachycardia (fast heart rate), and digestive upset.
Legal Status and Purity: The sale of peptides for "research purposes only" is common online, but obtaining and using them without a prescription is dangerous. The quality, purity, and dosage of these research chemicals are unregulated and can be highly unreliable.
 
Summary
 
Aspect
Description
Full Name
Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide
What it is
A 28-amino acid peptide that acts as a neurotransmitter and hormone.
Primary Role
A potent vasodilator and smooth muscle relaxant.
Key Functions
Regulates blood flow, digestion, inflammation, and some brain activity.
Medical Research
Studied for inflammatory diseases, pulmonary hypertension, and erectile dysfunction.
Crucial Point
It is a potent pharmaceutical, not a supplement. It should only be used under strict medical supervision due to significant side effects and risks.