
Kisspeptin
Kisspeptin-54 / Kisspeptin-10
Kisspeptin is a neuropeptide encoded by the KISS1 gene that plays a critical role in regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. It stimulates gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion by binding to the GPR54/Kiss1R receptor, making it essential for reproductive function, puberty onset, and fertility. Originally discovered as a metastasis suppressor in certain cancers, kisspeptin has emerged as a promising therapeutic target for reproductive disorders including infertility, hypothalamic amenorrhea, and hypoactive sexual desire disorder.
Complete Dosing Guide
Quick Reference
Administration Method
Subcutaneous injection or intravenous infusion
Step-by-Step Dosing Protocol
Dosing Guidelines
Kisspeptin dosing protocols vary significantly based on the specific clinical application and desired outcome. For IVF ovulation induction, single subcutaneous doses of kisspeptin-54 range from 1.6 nmol/kg (minimal effective dose) to 12.8 nmol/kg (optimal efficacy dose), administered 36 hours after final gonadotropin injection. For hypothalamic amenorrhea treatment, the established protocol uses 6.4 nmol/kg subcutaneously twice weekly for 8 weeks, with monitoring of LH and FSH levels. In research settings for male subjects, kisspeptin-10 doses from 0.03-3.0 μg/kg intravenously have been used to assess HPG axis responsiveness. For hypoactive sexual desire disorder studies, continuous intravenous infusion at 1 nmol/kg/h for 75 minutes has been employed. Chronic administration requires careful monitoring due to potential receptor desensitization and tachyphylaxis, necessitating dose holidays or pulsatile protocols to maintain efficacy.
Kisspeptin dosing depends on what you're trying to achieve. For women doing IVF, they typically get one shot ranging from a small dose (1.6 nmol/kg) to a stronger dose (12.8 nmol/kg) - think of it like choosing between a gentle nudge or a firm push to get your eggs ready. Women whose periods stopped usually need twice-weekly shots (6.4 nmol/kg) for about 2 months to get their systems back on track. For research purposes, men might get much smaller doses (0.03-3.0 μg/kg) through an IV to test how their hormones respond. The key thing is that your body can get used to kisspeptin if you use it too much, so doctors space out the doses to keep it working effectively - it's like giving your hormone system breaks so it stays responsive.
Mixing & Injection
Kisspeptin administration requires careful attention to route, timing, and preparation to ensure optimal bioavailability and efficacy. For subcutaneous injection (most common clinical route), kisspeptin-54 is reconstituted in sterile saline or water for injection at concentrations of 1-2 mg/mL, administered via 25-27 gauge needle into the abdominal subcutaneous tissue. Injection sites should be rotated to prevent local irritation. For intravenous administration, kisspeptin is diluted in normal saline and given as either bolus injection (over 1-2 minutes) or continuous infusion (typically 75 minutes for research protocols). The peptide should be protected from light and used within 24 hours of reconstitution. Pre-medication with antihistamines is not routinely required but may be considered in patients with known allergies. Monitoring of vital signs is recommended during initial administration, particularly with intravenous routes.
Kisspeptin administration requires careful attention to route, timing, and preparation to ensure optimal bioavailability and efficacy. For subcutaneous injection (most common clinical route), kisspeptin-54 is reconstituted in sterile saline or water for injection at concentrations of 1-2 mg/mL, administered via 25-27 gauge needle into the abdominal subcutaneous tissue. Injection sites should be rotated to prevent local irritation. For intravenous administration, kisspeptin is diluted in normal saline and given as either bolus injection (over 1-2 minutes) or continuous infusion (typically 75 minutes for research protocols). The peptide should be protected from light and used within 24 hours of reconstitution. Pre-medication with antihistamines is not routinely required but may be considered in patients with known allergies. Monitoring of vital signs is recommended during initial administration, particularly with intravenous routes.
Clinical Administration Guidelines
Injection Protocol
- •Subcutaneous injection or IV infusion per indication
- •Rotate subcutaneous sites (abdomen preferred)
- •Timing varies by protocol (IVF: 36h post-gonadotropin)
- •No specific food requirements - can be taken any time
Monitoring Schedule
- •LH/FSH monitoring pre-treatment and 1-12h post
- •Weekly reproductive hormone panels for ongoing protocols
- •Cardiovascular monitoring during administration
- •Monitor for receptor desensitization - maintain dose effectiveness
Dosage Calculator
Medical Disclaimer
Kisspeptin is in Phase 2 clinical trials for reproductive applications. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Any clinical use should occur only under medical supervision in approved research or clinical settings.