Compositions and methods are provided for mucosal delivery of peptides. The compositions include a stably hydrated peptide active agent complexed with a crown compound and/or a counter ion solubilized in a non-aqueous hydrophobic vehicle at a pH different from the pI of the peptide active agent. The methods include administering to a subject an effective amount of a composition of the disclosure. Other aspects include methods for the manufacture of the compositions of the disclosure. Also provided are compositions and kits that find use in practicing embodiments of the disclosure. The methods and compositions find use in a variety of applications, including the treatment of a variety of different disease conditions.
