Research Use Only - Not for human consumption. 18+ only.
CGrade CPrimarily animal or in-vitro studies; limited human dataResearch OnlyResearch OnlyNo regulatory approval in any major jurisdiction; for research use onlyImmune & Inflammatory ModulationSubcutaneousOral

KPV

Also known as: Lysine-Proline-Valine, α-MSH(11-13)

KPV is a C-terminal tripeptide of α-MSH with potent anti-inflammatory effects. It is being researched for inflammatory bowel disease and various inflammatory conditions.

Beginner Basics

Plain-English guide to KPV

What it does

KPV is a small protein fragment that researchers use to calm down the immune system and reduce inflammation, especially in the gut. It's commonly studied for helping people with inflammatory bowel conditions by reducing swelling and supporting healing.

Typical dose

Researchers typically use 500-1000 micrograms once or twice daily, either taken by mouth or injected under the skin depending on what they're studying.

When to inject

You can use it with or without food. If taking it orally for gut issues, there's no specific time requirement; if injecting, many prefer morning or evening for consistency.

Storage

Keep the dry powder in the refrigerator before mixing. After you mix it with liquid, store it in the fridge and use it within the timeframe indicated on your product.

First-timer tip

Start with the lower end of the dose range (500 mcg) for your first week to see how your body responds, then adjust upward if needed.

Research Status

CGrade CPrimarily animal or in-vitro studies; limited human dataResearch OnlyResearch OnlyNo regulatory approval in any major jurisdiction; for research use only

Research compound

For research purposes only. Not approved for human use. Not medical advice.

Research Areas

Strong anti-inflammatory effects
Gut healing properties
Reduces inflammatory cytokines
May help IBD and IBS
Wound healing support
Minimal side effects

Side Effects

Injection site reactions
CommonMild

Mild erythema, itching, or transient swelling at the injection site. Usually resolves within 1-2 hours. Minimize by rotating sites, allowing solution to reach room temperature, and using proper injection technique. Apply ice if needed.

Facial flushing
UncommonMild

Transient facial flushing or warmth may occur within minutes of injection, likely due to melanocortin receptor activation on vascular endothelium. Resolves spontaneously within 10-30 minutes.

Nausea
UncommonMild

Mild nausea has been reported in some users, particularly with initial doses. Taking with food or reducing dose frequency may help. Usually diminishes with continued use.

Appetite suppression
UncommonMild

Some users report mild appetite reduction, consistent with melanocortin pathway activation. This is typically mild and transient.

Headache
RareMild

Occasional mild headache reported. Ensure adequate hydration and consider timing of injection relative to other activities.

Hyperpigmentation
RareMild

Theoretical risk due to melanocortin receptor activation on melanocytes; not well-documented in clinical use of KPV at research doses. Monitor for changes in skin pigmentation with prolonged use.

Allergic reaction
RareSerious

Anaphylaxis or severe allergic reaction is extremely rare but possible in individuals with peptide sensitivity. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, throat tightness, severe rash, or swelling. Seek immediate medical attention if these occur. Have an epinephrine auto-injector available if you have a history of peptide allergies.

Dosing Reference

ParameterValue
Dose range500-1000 mcg
Frequency, timing and route - members only

Research disclaimer

Figures drawn from published research literature and community logs. Not clinical recommendations. Consult a qualified professional. Research use only.

Reconstitution Guide

Do not use saline or bacteriostatic saline, use only bacteriostatic water for reconstitution

Do not shake the vial vigorously; gentle swirling prevents peptide degradation

Discard immediately if the solution appears cloudy, discolored, or contains visible particles

Use within 30 days of reconstitution when stored at 2-8°C

Do not freeze the reconstituted solution; freezing may denature the peptide

Use the PeptideVolt reconstitution calculator for your exact concentration

Use the PeptideVolt reconstitution calculator for your exact concentration

Molecular and Pharmacological Data

Molecular weight345.4 g/mol
Half-lifeApproximately 15-30 minutes (subcutaneous); longer when administered orally due to intestinal absorption kinetics
SequenceMembers only

KPV is a tripeptide derived from the C-terminal region of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It exerts potent anti-inflammatory effects primarily through activation of melanocortin receptors (particularly MC3R and MC4R) on immune cells, which suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokine production and promotes regulatory T cell differentiation. This mechanism makes it particularly relevant for conditions characterized by excessive intestinal inflammation, such as inflammatory bowel disease.

Pathways and mechanism detail available to members

Track your KPV research

Free account. No credit card required.

Start Free

Recent Research

All results

Source: PubMed / NCBI. Updated daily. Articles are listed for research reference only.

Browse the Research Library

40+ peptide profiles with mechanism summaries, dosing data, and reconstitution guides.

View all peptides

Research Use Only. All content on this page is provided for informational and educational purposes related to scientific research. KPV is not approved for human use by the FDA or any equivalent regulatory body. This is not medical advice. Do not use any substance discussed here for therapeutic, diagnostic, or preventative purposes. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. The Peptide Volt does not endorse the use of any research chemicals. 18+ only.