KPV calculator
A tripeptide fragment of alpha-MSH studied for anti-inflammatory effects, particularly in the gut. Human evidence is early.
Also known as: Lysine-Proline-Valine, alpha-MSH fragment
FDA status — not an approved drug Not FDA-approved for any use. KPV is a research peptide and is not reviewed by FDA for safety, effectiveness, or quality.
Schedule KPV → Set your dosing schedule and get a phone notification when each dose is due. Free.
What KPV is
KPV is a tripeptide (lysine-proline-valine) representing the active end of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone. It has drawn interest for anti-inflammatory effects without the pigmentation effects of the parent hormone. Research is largely preclinical, with some early human work in gut inflammation.
Research depth: 2/5 Preclinical anti-inflammatory data with early translational work; no large human trials. Human trials: Early-phase only. This measures how much has been studied — counting animal and laboratory work — not whether it works for you.
How KPV works
KPV enters cells and is thought to reduce inflammatory signaling by inhibiting NF-kB and related pathways, lowering the production of inflammatory cytokines. Unlike the full alpha-MSH hormone, it does not strongly activate the melanocortin receptor that drives skin darkening, which is why it is studied separately.
KPV side effects
Commonly reported
- Injection-site reactions
- No systematic human safety data
- Theoretical immune-modulating effects under study
Serious — seek medical care
- Unknown long-term safety in humans
- Immune modulation could matter for people with autoimmune conditions
- Unregulated products carry purity and sterility risks
This list is not exhaustive. Report anything unexpected to the clinician who prescribed it. If you have severe abdominal pain, trouble breathing, or signs of an allergic reaction, seek care the same day. See also our guide to peptide side effects by class.
A worked example
A 10 mg vial reconstituted with 2 mL of bacteriostatic water gives 5 mg/mL. A 500 mcg dose is then 0.1 mL — about 10 units on a 100-unit insulin syringe, giving roughly 20 doses per vial before accounting for residual volume left in the vial and syringe.
Prefer paper? Download the printable KPV dosing chart (PDF) — every vial size and water volume in syringe units, with the same review byline as this page. All charts →
Commonly cited dose range
Figures circulating for KPV run from 250 mcg to 1000 mcg. Figures circulating in community and research use. There is no established human dose and no approved labeling.
Read this as reference information, not instruction. These numbers describe what is commonly discussed, not what is right for any individual. Dose, frequency, and whether to use KPV at all are decisions for a licensed clinician who knows your history.
Common questions
What is KPV used for?
It is studied mainly for anti-inflammatory effects, with interest in gut inflammation and skin. Human evidence is preliminary.
Is KPV approved?
No. KPV is a research peptide with no approved human use.