Last Updated February 9, 2024

 February 9, 2024

Delta sleep-inducing peptide (DSIP) is a neuropeptide discovered in the 1970s and heavily studied for its effects on the central nervous system, namely its ability to induce sleep.

While the relationship between DSIP and sleep is still not fully understood, researchers have uncovered a variety of benefits, including the abilities to reduce stress, normalize blood pressure, and potentially help in cases of addiction.

One key advantage of DSIP is that it is effectively and rapidly absorbed via intranasal delivery. This has given rise to research interest in DSIP nasal spray.

In this informative guide, we discuss the potential benefits and side effects of DSIP and reveal our pick of the best DSIP nasal spray online.

Buy DSIP Nasal Spray from our top-rated vendor...

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What is DSIP?

DSIP is a naturally occurring neuropeptide that was first isolated from the rabbit brain in the late 1970s. Interest in DSIP stems from its ability to stimulate “slow” or delta wave sleep [1].

Slow-wave sleep (SWS) is the phase of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep that is characterized by high-amplitude, low-frequency brain waves. SWS accounts for as much as one-quarter of total sleep time in young adults, but only about 2% in the elderly. Age-associated decline in SWS may account for frequent daytime lethargy and low energy levels [2].

This sleep phase may be understood as serving a restorative and therapeutic role in the central nervous system. On the other hand, SWS deficit has been linked to brain abnormalities, and is often reported in cases of schizophrenia and neurodevelopmental disorder [3].

Research indicates that DSIP has a stress protective effect by modulating the activity of GABA in the brain. While human studies on the effects of DSIP are not definitive, the neuropeptide’s promotion of slow-wave sleep is reported across several preclinical studies [4].

Administering this peptide by injection or nasal spray is critical to ensuring high bioavailability, as DSIP cannot cross the epithelium-mimicking Caco-2 cell layer system. This would render oral formulations of DSIP virtually ineffective compared to nasal spray and injections [5].

DSIP sold as a research chemical is intended for use only by qualified researchers for in vitro testing and laboratory experimentation only. Further in this guide, we reveal our go-to suppliers of DSIP in both nasal spray and injectable format.


DSIP Nasal Spray


DSIP Benefits and Research Applications

Various human and animal studies illustrate the role of DSIP in applications like sleep, chronic pain, and neurological disorders. It has also been shown to ameliorate stress-induced metabolic disturbances and aid in withdrawal or addiction treatment.

Research conducted to uncover the biological activities of DSIP has shown that DSIP-like peptides have a role in endocrine regulation. DSIP has further been shown to reduce corticotropin, and stimulate secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH). DSIP has stress-protective and adaptogen activity, normalizing brain metabolism in cases of drug addiction (amphetamine), stress, and stroke [6, 7, 8].

DSIP for Sleep and Mood

DSIP is one of the few sleep peptides to date that has been characterized and purified to homogeneity. It has been shown to induce delta sleep in rabbits, rats, mice, dogs, and humans.

DSIP-like material has been found in the brain and peripheral organs of various animals. In addition to sleep function, the peptide has been documented to affect neurotransmitter levels in the brain, hormonal levels, psychological performance, and the activity of pharmacological drugs [4, 6, 7, 9].

Delta waves are the slowest recorded brain waves in humans. Suppressed or diminished delta wave sleep is associated with poor sleep quality and neurocognitive deficits. For example, patients with brain injuries, severe ADHD, developmental disorders, insomnia, and narcolepsy are often found to have inadequate delta wave production during sleep.

Clinical studies looking at the association between major depressive disorder and sleep disturbances provide further evidence of this relationship. There is a common pattern of alpha-wave intrusion in delta wave sleep. Thus, treatment resistant symptoms in major depressive disorder or other mood disorders may potentially be addressed with DSIP [10].

Studies have shown that DSIP can pass the blood brain barrier (BBB) in rats, mice, dogs, and humans, making it a potential option for targeting neurological disorders, aforementioned mood disorders, and sleep disorders [11].

DSIP at an injected dose of 30mcg/kg has been shown to influence the circadian rhythm of rats, resulting in decreased activity after dark and increased activity during light hours. These changes became more pronounced and consistent after 3-4 days of continued therapy [12].

These results are consistent with a study finding lower cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of DSIP in hospitalized patients with schizophrenia or depressive disorders [13].

Another study by Sudakov et al. tested the resistance of rats to acute emotional stress induced by electrical stimulation. DSIP administered at 60 nmol/kg increased the rodents’ resistance to the emotional stress and lowered cardiovascular response [14].

DSIP for Brain Function

Numerous studies suggest that DSIP reduces stress-induced overproduction of free radicals within the CNS, thus preventing neuronal death, as reinforced by research into the impact of DSIP on brain ischemia. Injected DSIP has been shown to improve locomotor function, psychological parameters, and reduced lethality of stroke. The effect of DSIP on GABA receptors and glutamate receptors in neurons of the hypothalamus, thalamus, cortex, hippocampus, and cerebellum has been at least partially attributed to motor function recovery in test subjects [15, 16, 17].


DSIP Side Effects

The research to date has demonstrated that DSIP has a favorable safety profile.

Possible side effects associated with long-term use (12-24 months) have yet to be established in clinical research studies. However, no deleterious side effects have been reported in the literature thus far. DSIP has been administered to both human and animal populations in randomized and controlled studies [18, 19].

One of the first clinical studies done on DSIP demonstrated that the peptide was exceptionally well tolerated. Conducted in 1981, DSIP was administered as an intravenous infusion at 25 nmol/kg to six volunteers. The volunteers experienced better sleep efficiency without any presentation of sedation-like effects associated with pharmaceuticals. No psychological, physiological, or biochemical side effects were reported [20].

Researchers should note minor and transient side effects that have been anecdotally reported:

  • Headaches
  • Drowsiness; sudden onset of exhaustion or lethargy at higher doses
  • Nausea
  • Fatigue
  • Pain, swelling, or tenderness – associated with injection only
  • Dizziness – associated with injection only

The relationship between DSIP and alcohol consumption has been explored in limited research, with researchers finding lower DSIP content associated with alcoholization in rats [21].


DSIP Dosage Guide

DSIP is not currently approved for human use and there are no official dosing guidelines in place for this compound.

Based on current studies, researchers are encouraged to consider the following points when administering DSIP intranasally:

  • The optimal dosing schedule will depend upon the study’s methodology and desired outcome. The body mass of subject(s) will also impact appropriate dosing.
  • While we still lack safety trial data for DSIP, early studies suggest that even at low doses DSIP can normalize sleep and exert strong neuroprotective effects.
  • While a study in chronic insomnia patients has reported that short-term DSIP administration is unlikely to be of major therapeutic benefit, a 16-month study in mice found that long-term DSIP administration increased maximum life span and decreased the rate of tumor growth [22, 23].
  • One in vitro study appears to suggest the half-life of DSIP to be around 15 minutes, while animal studies suggest 4-5 minutes. This means DSIP should begin to work rapidly once administered [24].

Sample DSIP Nasal Spray Dosing Protocol

For reference, we are including a sample dosing protocol for researchers studying DSIP and using a nasal spray that contains 50mcg of DSIP per dose (spray). This is comparable to the DSIP nasal spray offered by our preferred vendor.

Assuming the above, the researcher may administer DSIP via nasal spray as follows:

  • DSIP Dosage: A total daily dose of 300mcg, with 150mcg administered in each nostril in three sprays of 50mcg each, may be applied. The spray should be applied up to three hours before bedtime to maximize sleep benefits.
  • Study Duration: DSIP may be administered on as-needed basis
  • Notes: One 5mg spray bottle comprises 100 sprays, so would last just under 17 days of administration per test subject. Adjust dosing depending on the subject’s response and research methodology.

As research on DSIP use in humans is continually expanding, researchers are advised to stay informed on the latest developments and recommendations regarding this peptide.


DSIP Nasal Spray | A Comprehensive Review

DSIP is commonly administered as an injection to maximize bioavailability. However, some researchers may want to use a nasal spray depending upon the research objective, design methodology, and nature of their test subjects.

DSIP’s mechanism of action in the CNS appears to warrant intranasal application as a non-invasive means to directly cross the BBB. Intranasal delivery of DSIP would allow targeted treatment in neurodegenerative diseases of the brain. This would allow a higher degree of efficacy when compared to tablet or capsule administration [25, 26].

Benefits of Intranasally Administered DSIP

There are a number of potential benefits of DSIP intranasal delivery:

  • Intranasally administered DSIP can be delivered directly to the brain, bypassing the BBB. This allows targeted treatment in applications related to the brain and its function.
  • The available research on DSIP indicates it is commonly used in addressing neurological conditions or neuroinflammation. Provided that DSIP is being used in a neurological application, a nasal spray may support this use.
  • DSIP is more effectively absorbed intranasally when compared to oral tablets or capsules of DSIP-containing product Deltaran.
  • In the event DSIP does ultimately undergo clinical development, intranasal administration can ensure a higher degree of patient compliance by eliminating side effects and discomfort commonly associated with peptide injections.
  • Intranasal delivery of DSIP is straightforward. If ultimately approved for clinical use, it can be administered by patients themselves at home, particularly as an intermittent sleep aid.

Precautions with DSIP Nasal Spray

Researchers interested in administering DSIP as a nasal spray should take note of a number of precautionary measures to ensure optimal bioavailability.

  • Subjects should be monitored after administration of DSIP for any abnormalities in behavior or motor function. The subject’s response time or motor function may become slightly impaired or decreased after administration of higher doses.
  • The nozzle of the spray bottle should always be kept sterilized and sanitary at all times to prevent any degradation or bacterial contamination of the product.
  • Properly formulated DSIP nasal spray is stable for several months at temperatures between 5°C-15°C. However, we recommend refrigeration at <0°C.

Aside from the aforementioned precautions, researchers should always ensure that they purchase DSIP nasal spray from a reputable vendor.

Additional important factors to consider when purchasing DSIP nasal spray include, first and foremost, evaluating any first-party or third-party laboratory tests done on the purity of the product.


DSIP Nasal Spray


Where to Buy DSIP Nasal Spray Online?

Researchers looking to source a high-quality DSIP nasal spray online have a number of potential options. However, it is crucial to carefully vet vendors for certification, reputation, and quality control measures.

Here's where we recommend:

PureRawz

In our professional experience, PureRawz stands out for their DSIP nasal spray.

They currently offer 5mg DSIP nasal spray bottles that are measured at 50mcg/spray.

Here are some of the reasons as to why we endorse PureRawz:

  • Lab-Tested Peptides: Products from PureRawz are manufactured in the USA in line with industry best practices. This vendor takes product quality seriously, and submits each peptide product for in-house and third-party lab testing to ensure purity.
  • Fast Shipping: PureRawz offers delivery within 2-3 business days for researchers located within the U.S. Those ordering from Australia or the UK have additional options for expedited shipping. All orders are shipped out the same day if paid before 4pm. The vendor typically uses USPS Priority or UPS Ground for deliveries.
  • Affordable Pricing: PureRawz products are well-priced and their DSIP nasal spray currently retails for just under $75. They regularly offer promo codes and discount codes for 10-15% off through their social media platforms. First-time customers who subscribe to their mailing list qualify for 10% off their first purchase.
  • Reliable Customer Service: The vendor has 24/7 customer support for clients, with the option of immediate online live chat via their website. PureRawz is easily accessible via social media platforms like Facebook.

Buy DSIP Nasal Spray from our top-rated vendor...


Nasal Spray vs. Injectable DSIP

Researchers interested in testing DSIP may wonder whether they should opt for an injectable version or nasal spray.

While injections are the commonly preferred method for administering peptides, nasal spray may be a comparable method of delivering DSIP. Here is a summary of the relevant research:

  • In a rat study, DSIP was administered intranasally for 8 days at 120mcg/kg. DSIP at this dosage resulted in accelerated recovery of motor functions after stroke, with no side effects reported [27].
  • In another rat study, brain infarction was significantly lower in animals which were treated intranasally with KND (a DSIP analog) at a dose of 300 mcg/kg, compared to controls [28].
  • Further studies tell us that both injection and intranasal administration of DSIP effectively pass the blood brain barrier, significantly increasing the cortical delta activity (delta waves). Adequate production of delta waves is deemed as essential to immunity, natural healing, and proper cognitive function. By contrast, diminished levels of delta wave activity are commonly seen in cases of brain injury, insomnia, narcolepsy, severe ADHD, and neurocognitive disorders [29, 30, 31, 32].

Researchers looking to administer injectable DSIP rather than a nasal spray should opt for Limitless Life' formulation. This vendor provides high-quality injectable DSIP and other peptides that are always third-party lab tested for purity and potency.


DSIP Nasal Spray | Verdict

Longstanding research indicates that DSIP for research purposes is best administered via nasal spray or subcutaneous injection (sub-Q).

A peptide nasal spray is typically associated with fewer side effects when compared to injection. Further, if DSIP were to gain regulatory approval for human use, patients would be able to more easily administer nasal spray versus self-injection.

Provided the research supporting the use of DSIP nasal spray, some researchers may want to opt for a nasal spray over injection.

Based upon our testing criteria, including lab results, we recommend PureRawz as the best vendor of DSIP nasal spray online.


References

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  29. Monnier, M. et al. (1977) “Transport of the synthetic peptide DSIP through the blood-brain barrier in Rabbit,” Experientia, 33(12), pp. 1609–1610. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1007/bf01934026.
  30. Abhang, P.A., Gawali, B.W. and Mehrotra, S.C. (2016) “Technical aspects of brain rhythms and speech parameters,” Introduction to EEG- and Speech-Based Emotion Recognition, pp. 51–79. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/b978-0-12-804490-2.00003-8.
  31. Miller, L.H. et al. (1986) “Sleep-wave activity of a delta sleep inducing peptide analog correlates with its penetrance of the blood-brain barrier,” Sleep, 9(1), pp. 80–84. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1093/sleep/9.1.80.
  32. Hruz P, Zechner S, Heimberg D, Hobi V, Schönenberger GA, Scheffler K, Müller-Spahn F, Seifritz E. Intranasal administration of delta sleep-inducing peptide increases P300. J Clin Psychopharmacol. 2001 Dec;21(6):626-8. doi: 10.1097/00004714-200112000-00021. PMID: 11763019.

Scientifically Fact Checked by:

Dimitar Marinov, Ph.D.

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