WhatPeptide

KPV

A short melanocortin-derived tripeptide studied for anti-inflammatory signaling in gut and skin models. Placed on FDA Category 2 list (September 29, 2023).

Preliminary evidence FDA Category 2 Anti-Inflammatory

Written by WhatPeptide Editorial Team · Last updated 2026-03-17

FDA Category 2 — compounding availability may be limited.

Half-life

Short peptide half-life; route-dependent effects

Dosage range

250-1000 mcg daily oral/topical protocols vary

Administration

Oral

Research level

Preliminary

How KPV works

KPV appears to attenuate NF-kB-related inflammatory signaling and cytokine expression in preclinical systems. It has been explored for epithelial barrier and inflammatory bowel model support as well as topical dermatologic contexts. Human efficacy data remains early and formulation-dependent.

Also known as: Lys-Pro-Val, alpha-MSH fragment 11-13

Research relevance

Gut Health
Strong research relevance 80
Hair & Skin
Moderate relevance 60
Immune Support
Some relevance 45
Recovery & Healing
Some relevance 40
Anti-Aging & Longevity
Some relevance 40
Injury Rehab
Some relevance 25

Side effects & safety

GI upset (oral use) Topical irritation Rare headache

Contraindications

Pregnancy
Severe active autoimmune flare without supervision

Consult a healthcare provider before use if any of these apply to you.

Key studies

FAQ

What is KPV? +
A short melanocortin-derived tripeptide studied for anti-inflammatory signaling in gut and skin models. Placed on FDA Category 2 list (September 29, 2023). Its mechanism of action is based on preliminary or early-stage research.
What is KPV researched for? +
KPV has the strongest research relevance for Gut Health, Hair & Skin, Immune Support. Evidence is based on preliminary or early-stage research.
What are the side effects of KPV? +
Reported side effects include GI upset (oral use), Topical irritation, Rare headache. Key contraindications: Pregnancy; Severe active autoimmune flare without supervision.
Is KPV FDA approved? +
KPV is classified as FDA Category 2, meaning compounding availability may be limited.
How is KPV administered? +
KPV is typically administered via oral route. Researched dosage range: 250-1000 mcg daily oral/topical protocols vary. Half-life: Short peptide half-life; route-dependent effects.

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