Tirzepatide vs KPV
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
Tirzepatide
Tirzepatide is a first-in-class dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist. FDA-approved as Mounjaro (diabetes) and Zepbound (weight loss), it has shown superior weight loss results compared to semaglutide in clinical trials.
Full details →KPV
KPV is a tripeptide (Lys-Pro-Val) derived from alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It retains the potent anti-inflammatory properties of the parent hormone without the tanning or other melanocortin effects.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Tirzepatide | KPV |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Activates both GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 receptors, providing synergistic effects on insulin secretion, appetite suppression, and metabolic regulation. The dual mechanism may explain its enhanced efficacy. | Inhibits NF-κB activation and reduces inflammatory cytokine production. Enters cells and directly modulates inflammatory signaling without requiring melanocortin receptors. |
| Typical Dosage | Start at 2.5mg weekly, titrate every 4 weeks through 5mg, 7.5mg, 10mg, 12.5mg, to maximum 15mg weekly. Full titration takes approximately 20 weeks. | Oral/sublingual: 200-500mcg 1-3 times daily. Topical formulations for localized inflammation. Also used in enemas for gut inflammation. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection once weekly. Rotate injection sites. Slower titration may help reduce GI side effects. | Can be taken orally, sublingually, or as suppositories/enemas for gut inflammation. Topical use for skin conditions. Stable orally unlike most peptides. |
| Side Effects | Similar to semaglutide: nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, decreased appetite. Generally improve with continued use. | Generally very well-tolerated. Minimal systemic effects due to targeted anti-inflammatory action. |
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