Comparison
Desmopressin vs. DSIP
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Research other
Research other
CAS no.
16679-58-6
62568-57-4
Molecular weight
1069.2 g/mol
848.81 g/mol
Half-life
3 h
0.1 h
Sequence
Mpa-Tyr-Phe-Gln-Asn-Cys-Pro-D-Arg-Gly-NH2 (Disulfid 1-6)Trp-Ala-Gly-Gly-Asp-Ala-Ser-Gly-GluMechanism of action
Desmopressin
Desmopressin is a structurally modified analogue of the nine-residue peptide hormone vasopressin. Deamination at the N-terminus (1-deamino) and replacement of L-arginine by D-arginine at position 8 prolong the duration of action and render the compound largely selective for the vasopressin V2 receptor, while the V1-mediated vasoconstrictive effect is strongly reduced. Acting on V2 receptors in the renal collecting ducts, it promotes insertion of aquaporin-2 water channels into the apical membrane, increasing water reabsorption and reducing urine volume (antidiuretic effect). In addition, via V2 receptors on the vascular endothelium, desmopressin stimulates the release of von Willebrand factor and factor VIII from endothelial stores (Weibel-Palade bodies), improving primary haemostasis.
DSIP
DSIP was described in 1977 by the Schoenenberger-Monnier group in Basel as a blood-borne substance reported to induce EEG changes similar to delta sleep in animal models. The exact mechanism remains undefined to this day: no defined receptor, proposed modulation of opioid, GABAergic and glutamatergic systems. Most mechanistic findings stem from preclinical studies of the 1980s and 1990s and were later subjected to contested replication attempts.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human trial
Studies
4
4
of which in humans
4
1
Effects recorded
4
3
Open conflicts
1
1
Documented adverse events
2
1
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Desmopressin and DSIP?
- Desmopressin is classified as "Research other", while DSIP is classified as "Research other". Desmopressin: Desmopressin (DDAVP) is a synthetic analogue of the endogenous hormone vasopressin (antidiuretic hormone, ADH). Deamination of the first amino acid and substitution of L-arginine with D-arginine give it selective activity at the V2 receptor with strongly reduced pressor (V1) activity. It has been approved for decades for indications including central diabetes insipidus, primary nocturnal enuresis, and bleeding tendency in von Willebrand disease type 1 and mild haemophilia A. The principal safety concern is hyponatremia or water intoxication. DSIP: Synthetic nonapeptide isolated in 1977 by Guido Monnier and Marcel Schoenenberger from the blood of rabbits in delta sleep. Despite the name, the role in sleep regulation is contested and not confirmed by Western RCTs in larger populations. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Desmopressin or DSIP?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Desmopressin and "Human trial" for DSIP. A higher evidence level means more robust data, but says nothing about suitability for an individual. The full body of evidence is on each peptide's own page.
- What is the legal status of Desmopressin and DSIP in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Desmopressin — Prescription, DSIP — Unapproved. United States: Desmopressin — Prescription, DSIP — Unapproved. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.