Kisspeptin
KISS-pep-tin
The 'master switch' hormone that controls your entire reproductive hormone cascade — being studied for fertility and desire.
Also known as: Kisspeptin-10, Metastin
Last reviewed: April 2026
What It Does
Kisspeptin sits at the very top of your reproductive hormone cascade. It signals GnRH release, which triggers LH and FSH, which trigger testosterone/estrogen production. It's being actively studied for fertility treatment and for boosting sexual desire in both men and women.
Why People Take It
How It's Administered
Subcutaneous Injection
Injection into belly fat
Frequency
Daily or as directed
Pain Level
●○○ Minimal
Self-Administered
Yes — at home
Typical Range
100mcg – 400mcg
What To Expect
Week 1–2
Hormonal response begins. Some notice mood improvements.
Month 1
LH/FSH levels rise. Downstream hormone improvements.
Month 2+
Potential improvements in desire and reproductive function.
Side Effects
Overall: Mild
Common (1–10%)
Injection site reaction
Mild redness.
Uncommon (0.1–1%)
Warm sensation
Brief flushing after injection.
Who Should NOT Take This
• Hormone-sensitive cancers
• Pregnancy (unless under fertility specialist)
Drug Interactions
• GnRH analogs — may interact
Pregnancy: Being studied for IVF support but not for general pregnancy use. Consult fertility specialist.
Clinical Details
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Half-Life
~28 minutes (kisspeptin-54) / ~4 minutes (kisspeptin-10)
Bioavailability
Well absorbed subcutaneously
Mechanism of Action
Binds to GPR54 (KISS1R) receptors on GnRH neurons in the hypothalamus. This is the critical upstream trigger for the entire HPG axis. Kisspeptin neurons integrate metabolic, circadian, and stress signals to regulate reproductive function.
Published Research
Kisspeptin and Sexual Function (2017) ↗Compare With Similar Peptides
Kisspeptin works one step above gonadorelin in the hormone cascade. Kisspeptin triggers GnRH, which is what gonadorelin mimics.
Open Full Comparison Tool →Frequently Asked Questions
This is a compounded medication prescribed off-label. It has not been FDA-approved for the uses described. All prescribing decisions are made by your independent licensed provider.