KPV

What is KPV and what has it been studied for?

KPV is "the melanocortin-derived tripeptide alpha-MSH(11-13)" [2], made of the amino acids lysine, proline and valine [1]. In a mouse model of colitis, KPV led to "earlier recovery and significantly stronger regain of body weight," an effect at least partially independent of the MC1R receptor [2]. A 2017 study loaded KPV into hyaluronic-acid nanoparticles for oral delivery in mice, reporting "much better therapeutic efficacy against UC in a mouse model" [3]. FDA's compounding briefing notes nonclinical studies suggest KPV-related substances "can have anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties in in-vivo and in-vitro models" [1].

Is KPV FDA-approved, and what does FDA say about the evidence?

KPV was nominated for compounding to address "wound healing, inflammatory conditions (psoriasis, eczema, etc.)," citing nine literature references; FDA found "none were studies of KPV administered in humans," and it "has not identified... any clinical studies or human exposure data for KPV via any route of administration" [1]. A search of the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System through December 3, 2025 "did not retrieve any reports" [1]. In July 2026, a compounding advisory panel voted 8 yes, 6 no, 1 abstention to recommend it [4]; formal rulemaking is still required before it could be added to the compounding list.