KPV
α-MSH C-terminal tripeptide
KPV partly activates MC1R and MC3R and inhibits movement of NF-κB into the nucleus. After direct uptake into cells, it reduces inflammatory cytokines including IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-8 and IL-6. It also inhibits caspase-1 activity and activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome.
Not medical advice. Educational reference only.
- Typical dose
- 250 mcg subcutaneously 3x weekly or 500 mcg subcutaneously weekly; separate injectable research range (route unspecified) 500 mcg–2 mg daily
- Route
- Subcutaneous injection (250 mcg and 500 mcg schedules); injectable, route unspecified (500 mcg–2 mg daily range); Oral (gut-delivery research)
- Storage
- Keep at 2–8°C after mixing and use within 28 days.
What is KPV?
KPV consists of Lys-Pro-Val, the three residues at the C-terminal end of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It retains anti-inflammatory activity without the melanocortin-dependent pigmentation effects of its parent hormone. Investigations address inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn’s disease, inflammatory skin disorders and wound repair. Oral preparations offer a possible way to deliver it specifically to the gut. KPV remains a research compound.
Responses differ between individuals. Begin with the lowest dose and observe your response carefully. Speak with your clinician before use and report unexpected symptoms. Human adverse effects are not fully characterized for every compound.
Mechanism of action
KPV partly activates MC1R and MC3R and inhibits movement of NF-κB into the nucleus. After direct uptake into cells, it reduces inflammatory cytokines including IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-8 and IL-6. It also inhibits caspase-1 activity and activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome.
Targets: MC1R · MC3R · NF-κB · NLRP3 inflammasome
Research indications
Immune Modulation
EffectiveInvestigations examine changes in immune-cell activity and regulation of inflammation.
Inflammation Control
EffectiveInflammatory markers may decrease both locally and throughout the body.
Infection Resistance
ModerateLimited findings suggest stronger mechanisms for defense against pathogens.
Research protocols
These are commonly discussed research protocols — not medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
| Goal | Amount | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting | 250 mcg | 3x weekly | Subcutaneous injection |
| Maintenance | 500 mcg | Weekly | Subcutaneous injection |
Interactions
Medications
CautionAsk your prescriber to review any medication before combining treatments.
BPC-157
CompatibleNAD+
CompatibleVitamin D
Compatible
How to reconstitute and inject
Diluent: Use bacteriostatic water; avoid saline because precipitation may occur.
- Let the refrigerated vial stand at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before preparation.
- Disinfect the stopper using an alcohol swab, then wait until it has dried fully in the air.
- Measure the calculated quantity of bacteriostatic water with a sterile syringe. Use only this diluent; avoid saline because precipitation may occur.
- Add the water gradually against the inner vial wall. Keep the stream away from the powder itself.
- Rotate the vial with a gentle swirling motion. Do not shake forcefully, because this can degrade the contents.
- Wait 2–3 minutes for the powder to dissolve completely, and check that the liquid is transparent and has no color.
- Use an insulin syringe to withdraw the calculated amount for injection beneath the skin.
- Inject in the thigh, abdomen or upper arm. Change the injection location each time to help prevent lipodystrophy.
- Refrigerate the mixed solution at 2–8°C. Use it within a maximum of 28 days after preparation.
What to expect
- Week 1–2
- During the first 1–2 weeks, early effects may accompany an adjustment period. Watch for adverse reactions.
- Week 2–4
- By weeks 2–4, the main effects may start becoming apparent. Make dose changes only according to your clinician’s guidance.
- Week 4–8
- During weeks 4–8, the principal effects are expected to be established. Review your progress with your clinician.
- Week 8+
- From week 8 onward, review the results and decide with your clinician whether to continue, cycle or change the dose.
Side effects and safety
- Mild pain, bruising or redness around the injection location
- Possible allergic reaction; stop use if hives or a rash develops
KPV: not approved in the US.
Regulatory status
US
Not approvedFDA: no approval for human treatment; research use only. No 503A ban is identified; compounding authorization remains unknown. Telehealth is available.
- Rx required
- No
- Telehealth
- Available
Frequently asked questions
What is KPV?
The Lys-Pro-Val fragment comes from the C-terminal end of α-MSH. Research focuses on inflammation, including bowel disease and skin conditions, without the pigmentation effects associated with the parent hormone.
Which benefits are being investigated?
Investigation focuses on immune regulation, inflammation and defense against pathogens. These potential benefits do not establish individual clinical outcomes.
Which dosing schedules are discussed?
Injectable research schedules also discuss 500 mcg–2 mg daily. This range is separate from the 250 mcg three-times-weekly and 500 mcg weekly subcutaneous schedules. The estimated injectable half-life is about 1 hour.
What safety issues matter?
Adverse effects vary with dose, administration route and individual response. Injection reactions may occur. Discuss unusual symptoms and any proposed combination of medications with your clinician before continuing.
References
Alpha-MSH tripeptide analogs reduce inflammation (2004)
KPV tripeptide exerts anti-inflammatory effects in intestinal epithelial cells (2010)
Melanocortin-derived tripeptide KPV has anti-inflammatory potential in murine models of inflammatory bowel disease. (2008)
alpha-Melanocyte-stimulating hormone, MSH 11-13 KPV and adrenocorticotropic hormone signalling in human keratinocyte cells. (2004)
The neuroimmunomodulatory peptide alpha-MSH. (2000)
KPV peptide studies on ClinicalTrials.gov (2024)