KPV
INVESTIGATIONALAnti-inflammatory tripeptide (derived from α-MSH)
By the INFOPEPTIDOS editorial team · content based on scientific literature.
Updated: August 2026.
Key points
- What it is: tripeptide (Lys-Pro-Val) derived from the tail of the α-MSH hormone.
- Main use: inflammation, gut health, skin and wound healing.
- Typical dose: 200–500 mcg per day, subcutaneous or oral depending on the goal.
- Key result: anti-inflammatory effect at the cellular level, without general immunosuppression.
- Common effects: minimal; occasional mild injection-site reaction.
- Comparison: combined with BPC-157: KPV calms inflammation, BPC-157 regenerates.
- Status: not FDA-approved.
Overview
What is KPV?
KPV is a tripeptide (lysine-proline-valine) corresponding to the final fragment of the α-MSH hormone and retaining its potent anti-inflammatory activity. It is researched mainly for gut inflammation, skin conditions and wound healing, often combined with BPC-157.
Key benefits
It reduces inflammation by acting inside the cell, without the immunosuppression of other anti-inflammatories. It is of special interest in the gut (inflammatory disease) and skin, and combines with regenerative peptides such as BPC-157.
Mechanism of action
KPV enters the cell and inhibits key inflammatory pathways (such as NF-κB), reducing the production of inflammatory mediators. Unlike full α-MSH, it has little activity on pigmentation.
Quick start guide
Dosing protocol
| Route | Dose | Frequency | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subcutaneous | 200–500 mcg | 1 time/day | 4–8 weeks |
| Oral (gut) | 250–500 mcg | 1 time/day | 4–8 weeks |
The oral route is used for gut inflammation; subcutaneous for systemic or skin effects. The specific dose must be assessed by a healthcare professional.
Reconstitution: units in the syringe
Example with a 5 mg vial + 2 ml of bacteriostatic water → a 2.5 mg/ml solution. On a U-100 insulin syringe (100 units = 1 ml):
| Dose | Volume | Units (U-100) |
|---|---|---|
| 250 mcg | 0.10 ml | 10 U |
| 500 mcg | 0.20 ml | 20 U |
Is your vial or water different? Calculate the exact units below.
🧮 Calculate your exact syringe dose →KPV vs BPC-157
| KPV | BPC-157 | |
|---|---|---|
| Main action | Anti-inflammatory | Regenerative |
| Best for | Inflammation, gut, skin | Tissue repair |
| Route | SC or oral | Subcutaneous |
| Stackable | Yes, with BPC-157 | Yes, with KPV |
⚠️ Who should NOT use it
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Limited safety data as it is a research compound.
- People with autoimmune disease — consult first.
- Always under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
What to expect
- Week 1: possible reduction of inflammatory discomfort.
- Week 1-3: improvement in gut or skin inflammation.
- Week 3-6: more stable benefits on inflammation.
- Week 6-8: peak effect of the cycle.
- Side effects: minimal; occasional mild injection reaction.
- Most effective for: gut inflammation, skin and recovery (with BPC-157).
Side effects & safety
- Generally very well tolerated profile.
- Possible mild injection-site reaction.
- Mild digestive discomfort with the oral route.
- Limited data as a research compound.
- Start at a low dose to assess tolerance.
- Allergic reaction: rash, itching or swelling.
- Unexpected worsening of symptoms.
- Signs of infection at the injection site.
- Any striking, persistent symptom.
- If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
Frequently asked questions
What is KPV?
It is a tripeptide derived from α-MSH with a potent anti-inflammatory effect, researched for gut and skin.
What is KPV used for?
Mainly for gut inflammation, skin conditions and wound healing.
How is KPV administered?
Subcutaneously for systemic or skin effects, and orally for the gut.
Can it be combined with BPC-157?
Yes; it is a popular combination: KPV calms inflammation and BPC-157 supports regeneration.
What are the side effects?
It is usually very well tolerated; data are limited as a research compound.
Is KPV approved?
It is not FDA-approved for human use.
Research areas
- Inflammation
- Gut health
- Skin and wound healing
- Recovery
- Inflammatory bowel disease
Related peptides
- BPC-157 — Regenerative peptide; classic combination with KPV.
- TB-500 — Systemic tissue healing.
- GHK-Cu — Copper peptide for skin and healing.
Related articles
Related topics
- KPV anti-inflammatory
- KPV dose
- KPV and gut
- KPV and BPC-157
- KPV for skin
- KPV side effects
Summary
What it is: Anti-inflammatory α-MSH tripeptide.
How it is researched: Subcutaneous or oral, 200-500 mcg per day.
Key features: Calms inflammation without immunosuppression. Not FDA-approved.
Related peptides: BPC-157, TB-500 and GHK-Cu.
References
- Cheng J et al. (2026). Inflammation-triggered self-immolative conjugates enable oral peptide delivery by overcoming gastrointestinal barriers. Sci Adv. PubMed · DOI
- Kannengiesser K et al. (2008). Melanocortin-derived tripeptide KPV has anti-inflammatory potential in murine models of inflammatory bowel disease. Inflamm Bowel Dis. PubMed · DOI
- Getting SJ et al. (2003). Dissection of the anti-inflammatory effect of the core and C-terminal (KPV) alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone peptides. J Pharmacol Exp Ther. PubMed · DOI
- Coutinho LFD et al. (2026). A new era of doping? Use of peptide and peptide-analog drugs in recreational and professional sport and bodybuilding: a critical review. J Sports Med Phys Fitness. PubMed · DOI
Studies compiled from PubMed for informational purposes; many are preclinical or research-stage and do not constitute medical advice.