VIP
Also known as: Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide, Aviptadil
A naturally occurring 28-amino-acid neuropeptide with wide-ranging effects on inflammation, blood vessel dilation, immune regulation, and circadian rhythm. It is a key part of the Shoemaker CIRS (mold illness) treatment protocol and is available through compounding pharmacies as a nasal spray.
How it works
VIP acts on VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors found throughout the body, especially in the lungs, gut, and brain. It widens blood vessels, reduces inflammation, regulates immune cell activity, and helps maintain the gut barrier. In the brain, it helps regulate circadian rhythms and sleep-wake cycles. For CIRS patients, VIP is used after biotoxin clearance to calm down persistent immune overactivation.
Common uses
- CIRS (Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome) / mold illness
- Immune dysregulation and chronic inflammation
- Circadian rhythm support
- Pulmonary hypertension (research)
- COVID-19 respiratory failure (aviptadil received FDA Fast Track Designation)
Side effects
- Nasal congestion or irritation (nasal spray form)
- Loose stools or diarrhea (VIP stimulates gut secretions)
- Low blood pressure or dizziness (VIP is a vasodilator)
- Flushing
- Headache
Key research
- Central component of Dr. Shoemaker's evidence-based CIRS treatment protocol
- Aviptadil (synthetic VIP) received FDA Fast Track Designation for critical COVID-19 with respiratory failure
- Pre-clinical and early-phase clinical studies from 2020-2025 show promise for inflammatory conditions
- Clinical experience in CIRS patients shows improvements in fatigue, cognition, inflammatory markers, and exercise tolerance
Safety notes
- Category 1 peptide, meaning it can be legally compounded by licensed pharmacies
- Not FDA-approved for CIRS, mold illness, or any clinical indication
- Available as compounded nasal spray (typically 50-100 mcg per spray)
- Must be used under physician supervision, especially for CIRS protocols
- Dosing starts low and is titrated up to minimize side effects
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