Disclosed is the use of VIP(16-28) of the following sequence: , Gln-Met-Ala-Val-Lys-Lys-Tyr-Leu-Asn-Ser-Ile-Leu-Asn, (QMAVKKYLNSILN) or conservative substitutions thereof, for the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment or prophylaxis of myocardial fibrosis and/or hypertension.