Cognitive Enhancement / Subcutaneous
Substance P
Also known as SP, Tachykinin
A neuropeptide involved in pain transmission and neuroinflammation. Researched for neuroprotection and cognitive function through NK1 receptor modulation.
What is Substance P used for? Research has focused on modulates pain signal transmission; reduces neuroinflammation; supports neuroprotective mechanisms.
Compare with other peptides studied forcognitive performance,immune support
Substance P injection at a glance
Figures from the published research literature. Research use only.
- Dose range
- 0.1-1 mcg
- Route
- Subcutaneous
How often, when, and the dosing notes are in the dosing reference further down.
Work out your units in the free calculatorBeginner basics
Plain-English guide to Substance P
- What it does
- Substance P is a signaling molecule in your brain that researchers study for managing pain signals and reducing brain inflammation. Scientists use it to explore how it might support brain health and thinking ability.
- Typical dose
- Researchers typically use 0.1 to 1 microgram injected under the skin once or twice daily, starting at the lowest dose and adjusting based on how your body responds.
- When to inject
- Morning and/or evening injections help maintain consistent activity in the brain; consistency matters more than exact timing.
- Storage
- Keep the dry powder in a cool, dark place at room temperature until mixed. Once mixed with liquid, store in the refrigerator and use within the timeframe specified by your supplier.
- Beginner tip
- Start with the lowest dose (0.1 mcg) and go slowly-this peptide is very potent, so small changes can make a noticeable difference in how you feel.
Research status
Clinical trials
For research purposes only. Not approved for human use. Not medical advice.
Research areas
- Modulates pain signal transmission
- Reduces neuroinflammation
- Supports neuroprotective mechanisms
- May enhance cognitive function
- Regulates immune response
- Supports neuroplasticity
Side effects
| Effect | How often | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Injection site reactionsMild erythema, swelling, or itching at the injection site typically resolves within 1-2 hours. Rotate injection sites to minimize local reactions. Apply ice if needed. | Common | Mild |
| HeadacheMay occur within 1-4 hours of injection. Usually self-resolving. Ensure adequate hydration and consider timing of injection relative to meals. | Uncommon | Mild |
| Flushing or facial warmthTransient vasodilation may occur shortly after injection. Typically resolves within 30 minutes. Not dangerous but may be uncomfortable. | Uncommon | Mild |
| NauseaMay occur if injected on an empty stomach. Take with a light meal or snack. Usually mild and self-limiting. | Uncommon | Mild |
| Dizziness or lightheadednessMay occur if standing too quickly after injection. Sit or lie down for 5-10 minutes post-injection if this occurs. | Rare | Mild |
| Anxiety or mood changesSubstance P is involved in stress and anxiety pathways. Some users report transient mood changes. Monitor closely and discontinue if significant anxiety develops. Consult a healthcare provider. | Rare | Moderate |
| Lipodystrophy (fat loss or thickening at injection sites)Chronic repeated injections at the same site can cause localized fat loss or hypertrophy. Strict site rotation (minimum 1 inch between injections) is essential to prevent this. If lipodystrophy develops, discontinue injections at that site for at least 4-6 weeks. | Uncommon | Moderate |
| Allergic reactionAnaphylaxis or severe allergic reactions are rare but possible. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, throat tightness, severe swelling, or rash. Seek emergency medical attention immediately if these occur. Have an epinephrine auto-injector available if you have a history of peptide allergies. | Rare | Serious |
| Tachycardia or palpitationsSubstance P can affect cardiovascular tone. If you experience rapid heartbeat, chest discomfort, or palpitations, discontinue use and seek medical evaluation. | Rare | Moderate |
Dosing reference
Dose scale from the research
- Starting
- 0.1 mcg
- Typical
- 0.5 mcg
- Upper end
- 1 mcg
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose range | 0.1-1 mcg |
Frequency, timing and route are for members | |
Research disclaimer. Figures are drawn from published research literature and community logs. They are not clinical recommendations. Consult a qualified professional. Research use only.
Reconstitution guide
- Do not use saline or bacteriostatic saline, use only bacteriostatic water for reconstitution
- Do not shake the vial vigorously; gentle swirling prevents peptide degradation
- Discard immediately if the solution appears cloudy, discolored, or contains visible particles
- Use within 30 days of reconstitution when stored at 2-8°C
- Do not freeze the reconstituted solution; freezing may denature the peptide
- Use the PeptideVolt reconstitution calculator for your exact concentration
Worked example
With 1 mg in the vial, the water you add changes the draw. Mixed with 1 mL that is 1,000 mcg per mL, so on a U-100 syringe 0.1 mcg is 0.01 units and 1 mcg is 0.1 units. Mixed with 2 mL it is 500 mcg per mL, so 0.1 mcg is 0.02 units and 1 mcg is 0.2 units.
Molecular and pharmacological data
| Molecular weight | 1347.6 |
|---|---|
| Half-life | Approximately 2-3 minutes in plasma; longer in CNS tissue |
| Sequence | Members only |
Substance P is an 11-amino acid neuropeptide that acts primarily as a neurotransmitter and neuromodulator by binding to neurokinin-1 (NK1) receptors on neurons and immune cells. It plays a central role in pain signal transmission, neuroinflammation, and stress responses. Research suggests that modulating substance P signaling may reduce neuroinflammatory cascades, support neuroprotection, and enhance cognitive function through altered pain perception and immune regulation.
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Recent research
All results on PubMedUnraveling Neuro-Immune Crosstalk in Dry Eye Disease: Corneal Neuropathy, Lacrimal Dysfunction, and Therapeutic Horizons.
Jiang L, et al. / Experimental eye research / 2026
Selective expression and neurochemical characterization of Huntingtin-associated protein 1-expressing neurons in the adult mouse habenula.
Meher MM, et al. / Tissue & cell / 2026
Trait-linked brainstem circuit resilience balances tau pathology-induced cellular vulnerability in Alzheimer's disease.
Zheng JQ, et al. / Neuron / 2026
Source: PubMed / NCBI. Updated daily. Articles are listed for research reference only.
Research citations
5 sources
Quartara L, Maggi CA. (1997). The tachykinin NK1 receptor. Part I: ligands and mechanism of action. Neuropeptides. 31(6):537-563. PMID: 9574819
Cascieri MA, Macleod AM. (2007). Emerging roles for substance P and the neurokinin-1 receptor in depression and anxiety disorders. Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry Letters. 17(22):6144-6149. DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2007.09.047
Ebner K, Singewald N. (2006). The role of substance P in stress and anxiety responses. Amino Acids. 31(3):251-272. PMID: 16868650
Muñoz M, Rosso M, Covenas R. (2010). A new perspective on the role of substance P in cancer biology and immunology: focus on NK-1 receptor selective antagonists. Neuropeptides. 44(5):369-377. PMID: 20580401
Pennefather JN, Lecci A, Candenas ML, Patak E, Pinto FM, Maggi CA. (2004). Tachykinins and tachykinin receptors: a growing family. Life Sciences. 74(12):1445-1463. PMID: 14729395
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Research use only. All content on this page is provided for informational and educational purposes related to scientific research. Substance P is not approved for human use by the FDA or any equivalent regulatory body. This is not medical advice. Do not use any substance discussed here for therapeutic, diagnostic, or preventative purposes. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. The Peptide Volt does not endorse the use of any research chemicals. 18+ only.