Small peptide isolated in rabbits in the 1970s that seemed to induce deep sleep. Insomnia trials in the 1980s–90s showed weak effects and it was not approved.
Regulatory status
Not approved
Family
Neuropeptide (nonapeptide) with unclear function
Scientific evidence
Low
Number of findings
2
Where it acts
Brain and sleep
Also known as
DSIP, delta sleep-inducing peptide, emideltide
Regulatory status
FDA (US): Not approved
EMA (EU): Not approved
Dose
In trials, 25 nmol/kg intravenously for a few days was used (PMID 1299794); there is no established dose for clinical use.
Safety
No serious effects were described in the small studies, but safety data are scarce. Not approved: buying it is not recommended.
Effect by goal · level of evidence
Sleep in chronic insomnia
no clear effectLowRCT (AA)in people
Weak effect
Double-blind trial with 16 chronic insomniacs: slight improvement in sleep efficiency and latency vs placebo; the authors concluded that an important therapeutic benefit is unlikely.
It was proposed to promote slow-wave sleep and modulate stress hormones, but a specific receptor was never identified. Its real physiological role remains unclear.
What the evidence says
In people
Sleep in chronic insomnia. Double-blind trial with 16 chronic insomniacs: slight improvement in sleep efficiency and latency compared with placebo; the authors concluded that an important therapeutic benefit is unlikely. PubMed 1299794
Crossover trial with polysomnography. More sleep time and fewer awakenings with DSIP, but differences of little clinical relevance, and some already present before treatment. PubMed 3583493