DSIP
Also called Delta sleep-inducing peptide; emideltide
An experimental nine-amino-acid peptide whose name is more confident than its evidence. Small studies on sleep conflict, and it is not an established insomnia treatment.
Overview
What it is
A nonapeptide investigated in sleep research. FDA notes inconsistencies in the identity of products sold under these names.
How it works
The mechanism is not well established. Studies looked at sleep architecture, sleep pressure and time to fall asleep.
What the research shows
A 1981 six-person infusion study reported increased sleepiness and sleep changes. A 1992 double-blind study in chronic insomnia found mixed changes across measures. A 1987 crossover trial found differences that were already present at baseline and no change in deep or REM sleep. A 1998 open trial looked at opioid withdrawal.
Studied for
- Chronic insomniasmall, conflicting trials
- Opioid withdrawalopen study
Safety and regulatory status
Safety and side effects
FDA's 2026 review describes headache, nausea, vertigo and low blood pressure in older IV studies, no safety data for injection under the skin, and aggregation, impurity and immune-reaction concerns. "Non-addictive" and "safe with sleep medicines" are not established.
Regulatory status
Not FDA approved. Reviewed by FDA's compounding advisory committee in July 2026.
Mixing and dosing reference
Reference information only. Read before using this section.
DSIP (5 mg Vial) Dosage Protocol
- Vial
- 5 mg DSIP
- Add diluent
- 3 mL
- Concentration
- 1.67 mg/mL
- 1 unit (U-100)
- 16.67 mcg in 0.01 mL
- Route
- Subcutaneous
- Typical range
- 100–300 mcg once daily (gradual titration); advanced up to 500 mcg.
Standard / Gradual Approach
| Week | Daily Dose (mcg) | Units (per injection) (mL) |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | 100 mcg | 6 units (0.06 mL) |
| Week 2 | 150 mcg | 9 units (0.09 mL) |
| Week 3 | 200 mcg | 12 units (0.12 mL) |
| Weeks 4–8 | 250–300 mcg | 15–18 units (0.15–0.18 mL) |
Advanced / Extended Approach
| Week | Daily Dose (mcg) | Units (per injection) (mL) |
|---|---|---|
| Week 5 | 350–400 mcg | 21–24 units (0.21–0.24 mL) |
| Weeks 6–8+ | 400–500 mcg | 24–30 units (0.24–0.30 mL) |
How to mix
- Draw 3.0 mL bacteriostatic water with a sterile syringe.
- Inject slowly down the vial wall; avoid foaming.
- Gently swirl/roll until dissolved (do not shake).
- Label and refrigerate at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F), protected from light.
Storage
- Protein and peptide stability depends on formulation, temperature, moisture, light exposure, and handling. Follow the storage directions shown in the four reconstitution checks above and the product’s lot-specific documentation. Keep the reconstituted vial refrigerated at 2–8 °C (36–46 °F), protect it from light, and avoid unnecessary agitation or repeated warming.
Protocol source: PeptideDosages.com
Common questions
Does DSIP help with sleep?
Results are inconsistent and mostly from small, old studies. CBT-I is the usual first treatment for long-term insomnia.
How quickly does it work?
No reliable timeline exists.
Can it treat opioid withdrawal?
Only an open study exists. Evidence-based options include buprenorphine, methadone and naltrexone.
Related in Brain and Cognitive Health
Sources and further reading (6)
- Schneider-Helmert D. DSIP in severe chronic insomnia. Eur Neurol, 1987.
- Bes F, et al. DSIP in chronic insomniac patients: double-blind study. Neuropsychobiology, 1992.
- Monti JM, et al. DSIP efficacy in chronic insomniacs, 1987.
- FDA. Emideltide bulk drug substances: briefing, July 2026.
- NHLBI. Insomnia: treatment.
- Source summary: PeptideDosages.com research overview (rewritten for NVO).
Laboratory research material: DSIP Research Use Only