Compare Peptides
Select any two compounds for a side-by-side comparison of mechanism, uses, risks, and FDA regulatory status.
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A 28-amino-acid neuropeptide naturally produced throughout the body, with particularly high concentrations in the gut, lungs, and nervous system. VIP has potent anti-inflammatory, vasodilatory, and immunomodulatory properties. It gained significant attention during COVID-19 as aviptadil (synthetic VIP) was studied for acute respiratory distress. In integrative medicine, it is widely used for chronic inflammatory response syndrome (CIRS) and mold illness protocols.
A tripeptide (Lysine-Proline-Valine) derived from the C-terminus of alpha-MSH (melanocyte-stimulating hormone). Has potent anti-inflammatory properties and is being studied for inflammatory bowel conditions and wound healing.
Binds to VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors, activating cAMP-dependent pathways that suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-12) while promoting anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10). Also acts as a potent vasodilator, bronchodilator, and neuroprotective agent. In the lungs, VIP protects alveolar type II cells from inflammatory damage.
Inhibits NF-κB signaling and pro-inflammatory cytokine production. Crosses the intestinal epithelium to directly suppress inflammation locally. Anti-microbial properties have also been demonstrated in vitro.
- Chronic inflammatory response syndrome (CIRS)
- Mold illness treatment (Shoemaker protocol)
- Pulmonary hypertension
- Neuroinflammation
- GI motility disorders
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) support
- Wound healing and skin conditions
- General anti-inflammatory protocols
- Gut health optimization
- Hypotension (due to vasodilation)
- Diarrhea at higher doses
- Nasal irritation with intranasal use
- Flushing and headache
- Limited standardized clinical data for CIRS indication
- Very limited human clinical data
- Optimal delivery method not established
- Injection vs. oral bioavailability differences not fully characterized
- Long-term safety unknown
Aviptadil (synthetic VIP) has been studied in clinical trials for ARDS and pulmonary hypertension. Not FDA-approved for any indication. Used off-label by integrative medicine practitioners for CIRS. The Shoemaker CIRS protocol includes intranasal VIP as a final step, though this use is not FDA-sanctioned.
Removed from FDA 503A Category 2 effective April 22, 2026. Scheduled for PCAC review on July 23, 2026 for wound healing and inflammatory conditions. Compounding not yet authorized — status is in regulatory gray zone pending PCAC recommendation.
PCAC: July 23, 2026
This comparison is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any peptide therapy.