CalcMyPeptide
Sleep & RecoveryAlso known as: Delta Sleep-Inducing Peptide

DSIP

Delta Sleep-Inducing Peptide (DSIP) is an enigmatic, naturally occurring nonapeptide renowned for its capacity to aggressively force the brain into profound slow-wave (Delta) sleep architecture. It is not a conventional sedative; rather, it acts as a master regulatory conductor, entirely resetting a fractured circadian rhythm. Clinically utilized to combat severe, treatment-resistant insomnia and mitigate crushing withdrawal protocols, DSIP resets the autonomic nervous system while blunting massive spikes in stress-induced cortisol.

Reviewed by CalcMyPeptide Editorial Team
Last updated: April 2026Evidence: Low3 peer-reviewed citations

Quick Stats

Half-Life~2-3 minutes (plasma)
Dose Range100-300 mcg before bed
Frequency1× daily before bed
Vial Sizes5 mg
BioavailabilitySubcutaneous injection
Year Developed1974

Scientific Data

Molecular Formula
C35H48N10O15
Molecular Weight
848.82 g/mol
CAS Number
PubChem ID
Developer
Schoenenberger GA, Monnier M (University of Geneva)

Mechanism of Action

DSIP (Delta Sleep-Inducing Peptide) is a naturally occurring nonapeptide that promotes delta-wave (Stage 3/4 deep) sleep — the most restorative phase of the sleep cycle. It was first isolated from rabbit brain venous blood in 1974 at the University of Geneva.

DSIP modulates several neurochemical systems: it enhances serotonin release, reduces stress-related ACTH and cortisol levels, and normalizes circadian rhythms. Unlike sedative-hypnotics (benzodiazepines, z-drugs), DSIP promotes delta-wave architecture rather than artificially sedating, maintaining natural sleep stage progression.

Source: PMID: 6325741

Background & History

DSIP (Delta Sleep-Inducing Peptide) is a nonapeptide first isolated from rabbit cerebral venous blood by Marcel Monnier at the University of Basel in 1977. It was the first peptide identified specifically for sleep regulation and produced normal physiological slow-wave sleep in animal and human experiments without the hangover effects of pharmacological sleep aids. Its mechanisms include modulation of serotonin, norepinephrine, and GABA systems, as well as normalization of cortisol circadian rhythms — making it useful beyond sleep into stress resilience.

Research Use Cases

  • Insomnia treatment: reducing sleep onset and improving slow-wave sleep
  • Circadian rhythm normalization in shift workers or jet lag
  • Reducing stress-induced cortisol dysregulation
  • Opioid and alcohol withdrawal support (preclinical data)
  • General performance recovery via improved sleep architecture

Dosing Protocol

Typical Dose100-300 mcg before bed
Frequency1× daily before bed
Half-Life~7-8 minutes
Common Vial Sizes5 mg

Dosing Protocols

Sleep Protocol

Dose
200 - 500 mcg
Frequency
SC injection 30-60 min before sleep, 5-10 days on / rest off
Note: Shorter half-life requires careful timing. May require a cycle of several nights to establish delta-wave entrainment.

Body-Weight Dosing Reference

Estimated doses extrapolated from the published research range of 100300 mcg/day (referenced to 70 kg / 154 lb). These are approximations — consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised guidance.

WeightLowTargetHigh
120 lb(54 kg)77 mcg154 mcg231 mcg
140 lb(63 kg)90 mcg180 mcg270 mcg
160 lb(73 kg)104 mcg209 mcg313 mcg
180 lb(82 kg)117 mcg234 mcg351 mcg
200 lb(91 kg)130 mcg260 mcg390 mcg
220 lb(100 kg)143 mcg286 mcg429 mcg
250 lb(113 kg)161 mcg323 mcg484 mcg

💉 For exact syringe units based on your vial concentration, use the DSIP Reconstitution Calculator →

Administration

Route
Subcutaneous injection
Timing
30-60 minutes before desired sleep time.
Fasting Required?
No — food timing not critical

Expected Timeline

Night 1-3
Improved sleep onset. Some users report vivid dreams as delta-wave activity increases.
Night 5-10
Enhanced deep sleep duration. Improved morning recovery and HRV.

Who Is It For?

Deep Sleep / Insomnia

Low

Promotes delta-wave sleep without sedation. Limited modern clinical trials but significant preclinical and historical research.

Cortisol / Stress Normalization

Low

Reduces ACTH and cortisol — may improve sleep quality in high-stress individuals.

Reconstitution Example

Vial
5 mg
Water
2.5 mL
Concentration
2 mg/mL
Per Unit (100u syringe)
20 mcg
Dose of 100 mcg = 5 units on a 100-unit insulin syringe

Safety & Considerations

Research peptide. Limited modern human safety data. Generally well-tolerated in older studies. May cause morning grogginess at higher doses. Not for use with CNS depressants.

Regulatory & Legal Status

FDA Status (US)
Research Only
WADA Status (2026)
Not Listed

Not currently on the WADA 2026 Prohibited List. Policies may change — verify before competition.

Classification

Research Chemical

US Compounding: Not eligible / not available

⚠️ This information is for educational purposes only and may not reflect the most current regulatory updates. Always verify with official FDA, WADA, and jurisdiction-specific sources before use.

Interactions & Contraindications

Additive sedative effects with benzodiazepines, z-drugs, or antihistamines — reduce doses of sleeping medications when using DSIP. Alcohol amplifies CNS depressant effects. May normalize cortisol rhythm — if using steroids/HRT, timing may be affected.

Synergies & Common Stacks

Daytime anxiety reduction (Selank) + nighttime sleep restoration (DSIP) creates a comprehensive stress-sleep protocol.

Epitalon restores melatonin production; DSIP induces slow-wave sleep. Together they address both melatonin quantity and sleep quality architecture.

Dosing Quick Reference

DSIP— Dosing Guide
Dose Range
100-300 mcg before bed
Half-Life
~7-8 minutes
Frequency
1× daily before bed
Route
Subcutaneous
5 mg vial
💧 2.5 mL BAC water📐 2 mg/mL concentration💉 20 mcg/unit (100u syringe)
Sleep & Recoverycalcmypeptide.com

Frequently Asked Questions

How does DSIP differ from sleep drugs like Ambien?
Unlike sedative-hypnotics that knock you unconscious and distort sleep architecture, DSIP specifically promotes delta-wave (deep) sleep while maintaining natural sleep stage progression. It works with your sleep biology rather than overriding it.
What is the best time to inject DSIP?
30-60 minutes before desired sleep onset. SubQ injection. Some protocols run 5-10 nights consecutively to establish delta-wave entrainment.

References

  1. Schoenenberger GA, Monnier M "Isolation and characterization of a sleep-inducing factor from rabbit brain".” PNAS (1977). PMID: 73474
Recommended Source10% OFF

Get DSIP from our recommended source — independently tested, COA-verified, USP <85> endotoxin compliant. Use code 4SS6SFTUGB at checkout.

Affiliate link · Full review