KPV dosage and protocol
Anti-inflammatory peptide from alpha-MSH that enters cells to shut down inflammatory pathways
- Vial size: 5 mg
- Reconstitution: 3 mL bacteriostatic water
- Concentration: 1.67 mg/mL
- Administration: subcutaneous
Research areas
- Inflammation
- IBD
- Gut Health
- Wound Healing
- Autoimmune Support
Quick start
- Reconstitute: Add 3 mL bacteriostatic water to the 5 mg vial for about 1.67 mg/mL
- Typical dose: 200-500 mcg subcutaneous once daily (oral 250 mcg 2x daily is an alternative route)
- Easy measuring: At 1.67 mg/mL, 1 unit on a U-100 syringe is about 16.7 mcg; 200 mcg is about 12 units and 500 mcg about 30 units
- Storage: Refrigerate at 2-8°C after mixing
Dosing protocol
| Phase | Dose | Frequency | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subcutaneous | 200-500 | Once daily | Variable |
| Oral (GI issues) | 250 | 2x daily | Oral capsule |
| Topical (wounds) | 7500 | 2x daily | Topical |
How it works
KPV is the tripeptide lysine-proline-valine, the C-terminal fragment of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH). Unlike the full hormone, KPV appears to exert much of its anti-inflammatory activity without strong melanocortin receptor-mediated pigment effects. In intestinal epithelial and immune cell models it is taken up through the peptide transporter PepT1, and once inside the cell it has been reported to dampen NF-kB and MAP kinase signaling, lowering production of inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-alpha. Most of the supporting data come from cell culture and rodent studies. In mouse models of chemically induced colitis, oral KPV (including nanoparticle-encapsulated forms targeted to the colon) reduced weight loss, tissue damage and inflammatory markers. Topical and wound models have suggested reduced inflammation and support for barrier repair, which is why oral, topical and injectable forms are all discussed in research settings. There are no completed controlled human trials establishing efficacy, dosing or long-term safety for KPV in any route. The doses circulating in research protocols are extrapolations rather than values validated in clinical studies, so the overall evidence level should be considered preclinical.
Reconstitution steps
- Draw 5.0 mL bacteriostatic water with a sterile syringe (for subcutaneous use)
- Inject slowly down the vial wall; avoid foaming
- Gently swirl/roll until dissolved (do not shake)
- Label with reconstitution date and refrigerate at 2–8°C, protected from light; use within 30 days
Storage
Store based on form. Injectable refrigerated at 2-8°C after mixing
Important notes
- Enters cells and inhibits NF-kB inflammation controller
- Multiple administration routes: injectable, oral, topical
- Excellent for IBD, colitis, and gut inflammation
- Promotes wound healing when applied topically
- Very safe - no reported side effects
- Limited clinical research
Supplies
- Bacteriostatic water (for injection)
- Insulin syringes
- Oral capsules or topical cream