KPV
Also called Lys-Pro-Val; alpha-MSH C-terminal tripeptide
A three-amino-acid peptide from the end of alpha-MSH, studied for anti-inflammatory activity in experimental gut inflammation. Cell and mouse results do not show it treats IBD, eczema or other conditions in people.
Overview
What it is
A tripeptide of lysine, proline and valine joined in sequence. Taking those amino acids separately is not the same thing.
How it works
It enters gut and immune cells through the PepT1 transporter and dampens inflammatory pathways such as NF-kappa-B and MAPK in lab cells.
What the research shows
Oral KPV reduced disease in two chemically induced mouse colitis models (2008). A 2017 study delivered KPV in targeted nanoparticles to inflamed mouse colon. A skin-sample study found KPV barely passes through intact skin without microneedles or iontophoresis. FDA's May 2026 review identified no human clinical studies.
Studied for
- Intestinal inflammationcells, mice
- Targeted colon deliverymice
- Skin penetrationhuman skin samples
Safety and regulatory status
Safety and side effects
No reliable human side-effect rates exist. FDA highlighted uncertainty about immune reactions, aggregation and impurities. Worsening symptoms after an unapproved product should not be dismissed as normal.
Regulatory status
Not an ingredient in any FDA-approved drug. Reviewed by FDA's compounding advisory committee in July 2026, which is not approval.
Mixing and dosing reference
Reference information only. Read before using this section.
KPV (10 mg Vial) Dosage Protocol
- Vial
- 10 mg KPV
- Add diluent
- 3 mL
- Concentration
- 3.33 mg/mL
- 1 unit (U-100)
- 33.33 mcg in 0.01 mL
- Route
- Subcutaneous
- How often
- Once per day (subcutaneous).
- Typical range
- 200–500 mcg once daily (gradual titration recommended).
- Cycle length
- 8–12 weeks; optional extension to 16 weeks under monitoring.
Standard / Gradual Approach
| Week | Daily Dose (mcg) | Units (per injection) (mL) |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | 200 mcg | 6 units (0.06 mL) |
| Week 2 | 300 mcg | 9 units (0.09 mL) |
| Week 3 | 400 mcg | 12 units (0.12 mL) |
| Weeks 4–8 | 500 mcg | 15 units (0.15 mL) |
How to mix
- Draw 3.0 mL bacteriostatic water with a sterile syringe.
- Inject slowly down the vial wall; avoid foaming.
- Gently swirl/roll until dissolved (do not shake).
- Label and refrigerate at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F), protected from light.
Dosing details
- Target: 400–500 mcg daily by Weeks 4–8 for maintenance anti‑inflammatory effects.
- Frequency: Once per day (subcutaneous).
- Cycle Length: 8–12 weeks; optional extension to 16 weeks under monitoring.
- Timing: Any consistent time; rotate injection sites systematically.
Storage
- Lyophilized: Store at −20 °C (−4 °F) or below in dry, dark conditions; protect from moisture and light.
- Reconstituted: Refrigerate at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F); follow product-specific use-by instructions.
- Allow vials to reach room temperature before opening to minimize condensation uptake.
- Avoid freeze–thaw cycles: Do not refreeze reconstituted peptide solutions; do not assume aliquoting extends stability or sterility without validation.
Administration technique
- Clean the vial stopper and injection site with alcohol swabs; allow to dry completely (10–15 seconds).
- Pinch a 1–2 inch skinfold; insert the needle at 45–90° angle into subcutaneous tissue.
- Do not aspirate for subcutaneous injections; inject slowly and steadily over 3–5 seconds.
- Withdraw the needle smoothly and apply gentle pressure with a clean alcohol swab (do not rub the site).
- Rotate sites systematically using a pattern (e.g., alternating between right/left abdomen, right/left thigh) to avoid lipohypertrophy and maintain consistent absorption.
- Preferred sites: abdomen (at least 2 inches from navel), anterior/lateral thigh, or outer upper arm (if administering to self, abdomen and thigh are easiest).
Important notes
- Use new sterile insulin syringes for each administration; dispose in a sharps container immediately after use.
- Rotate injection sites systematically (abdomen, thighs, upper arms) at least 1–2 inches apart to reduce local irritation and prevent lipohypertrophy.
- Inject slowly; wait a few seconds before withdrawing the needle to prevent solution backflow.
- Document daily dose, injection site, and any observations to maintain consistency and track tolerability.
- If injection‑site reactions (redness, mild swelling) occur, apply a cool compress and monitor; persistent reactions warrant protocol review.
Protocol source: PeptideDosages.com
Common questions
Does KPV heal the gut?
That has not been shown in people.
Is oral better than topical?
No human comparison exists.
Should I replace my current treatment?
No. Discuss persistent gut or skin symptoms with your clinician.
Found in these blends
Related in Immune Health
Sources and further reading (5)
- Dalmasso G, et al. PepT1-mediated KPV uptake reduces intestinal inflammation. Gastroenterology, 2008.
- Xiao B, et al. Orally targeted KPV nanoparticles alleviate ulcerative colitis. Mol Ther, 2017.
- Pawar KR, et al. Transdermal iontophoretic delivery of KPV across human skin. J Pharm Sci, 2017.
- FDA. KPV-related bulk drug substances: staff evaluation, July 2026.
- Source summary: PeptideDosages.com research overview (rewritten for NVO).
Laboratory research material: KPV Research Use Only