DSIP
Also known as: Delta Sleep-Inducing Peptide, Delta Sleep Peptide
A neuropeptide discovered in the 1970s that is linked to the regulation of sleep cycles and stress response. Despite its name, the evidence for direct sleep induction is mixed. It was placed on the FDA's restricted list in 2023.
How it works
DSIP is thought to promote sleep by enhancing slow-wave (delta) sleep, the deepest and most restorative phase of the sleep cycle. It also appears to regulate stress hormones like cortisol and ACTH, and may influence melatonin production. Despite its name, DSIP does not simply 'knock you out' like a sleeping pill. Instead, it seems to regulate and normalize disrupted sleep patterns over time.
Common uses
- Sleep quality improvement
- Delta (deep) sleep promotion
- Stress and cortisol regulation
- Chronic insomnia (experimental)
Side effects
- Daytime grogginess if dosed too high or at the wrong time
- Headache or dizziness (rare)
- Injection site irritation
- Potential hormonal shifts with prolonged use
- No established long-term safety profile
Key research
- Original 1970s research identified DSIP in rabbit brain during induced sleep
- Study of chronic insomnia patients showed improved sleep efficiency and reduced sleep latency
- Research shows effects on cortisol, ACTH, and LH regulation beyond just sleep
- Results across studies have been inconsistent, with some failing to replicate sleep-inducing effects
Safety notes
- Placed on FDA Category 2 (do not compound) list in September 2023
- FDA cited potential immunogenicity risk (the body may mount an immune response against it)
- The FDA also noted that no safety-related data had been identified, meaning its safety profile is essentially unknown
- Expected to potentially return to Category 1 under the 2026 reclassification, but this is not confirmed
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