Hormones & Fertility
Kisspeptin
KP-10 / KP-54 · upstream HPG-axis activator
What it is
Kisspeptin is a natural neuropeptide that sits at the very top of the hormone cascade. It triggers the hypothalamus to release GnRH, which then triggers the pituitary to release LH and FSH, which then drive testosterone or estrogen production. Kisspeptin is the master switch for the entire reproductive axis.
How it works
Activates GPR54 receptors on GnRH neurons, triggering the natural hormone cascade. Unlike straight TRT (which suppresses your own production), Kisspeptin amplifies it — raising both testosterone AND fertility simultaneously.
Benefits
- Increased natural testosterone production
- Preserved or improved fertility (sperm count, motility)
- Restoration of the HPG axis after steroid use
- Possible mood and libido improvements
- Currently being studied for hypothalamic amenorrhea in women
Timeline
- Hours
- LH/FSH rise within hours of injection.
- Week 1–2
- Testosterone increases; libido shifts.
- Month 1–3
- Fertility markers (sperm count) improve over months.
Dosing & titration
KP-10 dose100–500 mcg subQ daily
KP-54 dose (longer-acting)5–10 mcg/kg, less frequent
Cycle length8–12 weeks
When to titrate upIf LH/testosterone don't respond after 2 weeks at lower dose, increase. Most users do well at 200–300 mcg.
Side effects & risks
- Generally well tolerated
- Mild injection site reactions
- Headache (rare)
- Theoretical: similar to other HPG-axis stimulators — estrogen rise can occur
Best alternative to clomiphene/HCG for fertility-preserving testosterone optimization. Get baseline testosterone, LH, FSH before starting.
Typical price
$80–$150/mo5–10 mg vial from a 503A compounding pharmacy.
Studies
- Dhillo WS et al. Kisspeptin-54 stimulates the hypothalamic-pituitary gonadal axis in human males — Foundational human study. PubMedJCEM, 2005
- Abbara A et al. Clinical applications of kisspeptin — Modern clinical use review. PubMedEndocrine Reviews, 2018
- Search PubMed for kisspeptin — PubMed searchLive PubMed search
Educational reference only. Not medical advice.