MOLECULAR INFORMATION
Molecular information
- Type
- Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide · 28-AA endogenous neuropeptide · VPAC1/VPAC2 receptors
VIP is an endogenous human neuropeptide with mature pharmacology and a narrow regulatory footprint.
Status
- Invicorp (VIP + phentolamine intracavernosal) — authorised in the UK and several EU member states for erectile dysfunction
- Phase 2 in sarcoidosis (inhaled VIP)
- Investigational in pulmonary hypertension, asthma
Why we grade it C
Real human peptide with narrow regulatory authorisation in one combination context, plus active clinical programmes. Upgrade to B requires a completed adequately-powered RCT in a broader monotherapy indication.
Frequently asked questions
- What is VIP?
- Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide — a 28-amino-acid endogenous neuropeptide with broad signalling roles in vasodilation, smooth-muscle relaxation, immune modulation, and circadian rhythm. Acts through the VPAC1 and VPAC2 G-protein-coupled receptors.
- Is VIP used clinically?
- VIP analogues have been investigated in sarcoidosis, pulmonary hypertension, and erectile dysfunction (intracavernosal Invicorp combination product). Some narrow regional authorisations exist (Invicorp in UK / NL); no broad EU-wide authorisation.
- Why grade C?
- Genuine endogenous human peptide with regulatory authorisation in a narrow combination context, real Phase 2 programmes in other indications, but no broad therapeutic indication with completed Phase 3 evidence.