Vitagel

Vitagel is an organic substance consisting of specialized chemicals mixed within a colorless, suspension fluid. When a patient is exposed to Vitagel, the medicinal chemicals promote rapid tissue regeneration while preventing the development of scar tissue. Medical-grade Vitagel is known as Nuathu, its formula a closely-guarded secret by their creators, the Shapeshifters.

History & Usage

History

Vitagel, along with the Stabilizer Tank, was originally created by the Shapeshifters as a means to provide medical assistance to Outworlders when out on missions. Eventually the usage of the fluid was noticed by other space-faring species, who then began to develop similar versions catered to their own kind.

Everyday use

The primary method of Vitagel administration is via Stabilizer Tank, topping up when necessary. If a Stabilizer Tank is unavailable, Vitagel can also be administrated via disposable Vitagel patches, direct injection, consumption, or a salve. Vitagel is said to have a faint sweet flavour, though it differs per individual. Drinking the fluid while healthy will give the feelings of being revitalised and energetic.
Shapeshifters will drink Vitagel to boost their shapeshifting capacity when planning on shapeshifting into beings larger that they would usually be capable of.
Drinking Vitagel is not recommended as a replacement for submersion treatment, nor as a replacement for a conventional diet.

Refinement

Vitagel used in medical centres and sold commercially is carefully formulated within specific parameters to deal with needs of the patient undergoing submersion. Medical centres will specifically formulate Vitagel based on a patient-by-patient basis, while commercially sold Vitagel have a base formula dependent on one's species and weight.

DIY

Look! I've found these "Vitamin Gummies" and "Protein Powder" so we can make this work! ... Don't give me that look.

— An Optimistic Shapeshifter

Vitagel can be homebrewed, though these alternatives can vastly differ from properly refined Vitagel depending on the chemicals used. Concerns about the quality of the fluid as well as risks involving contamination and inadequate nutritional absorption have led to recommendations to only use DIY Vitagel in dire emergencies when medical-grade fluid is unavailable.

Type

Biomaterial

Value

257.7 gU per 5L

Odor

Faint/None

Taste

Faintly Sweet

Common State

Liquid

Related Species

• Shapeshifter

Related Items

• Stabilizer Tank

Reusability

Leftover Vitagel can be reused if necessary, however it is discouraged to prevent contamination, especially if being used with multiple subjects.
The issue is less of a problem when being reused with the same patient, but still not recommended as it will be less effective compared to fresh Vitagel.
Some Shapeshifters will drink the leftover fluid after being submerged in it, but this is considered gross behaviour.

Distribution

Trade

Commercial-grade Vitagel is sold by licenced sellers throughout the galaxy, mainly in space stations, though different potencies will vary.
There are also independent vendors that sell DIY Vitagel, though quality cannot be guaranteed.
If buying from a dubious seller, buyers are encouraged to do a smell check on the Vitagel.