How is Melanotan I different from Melanotan II?

Melanotan I is more selective for MC1R (pigmentation), so it produces tanning with fewer of the libido and appetite effects associated with Melanotan II's MC4R activity.

Is Melanotan I approved for anything?

Yes. As afamelanotide (Scenesse), it is approved to prevent phototoxicity in adults with erythropoietic protoporphyria, a rare light-sensitivity disorder.

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Tanning & Skin

Clinical

Melanotan I

Also known as: Melanotan I, Afamelanotide, Scenesse

A selective MC1R-favoring melanocortin agonist approved (as Scenesse/afamelanotide) to reduce phototoxicity in erythropoietic protoporphyria. More selective for pigmentation than Melanotan II.

Mechanism of Action

Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a linear alpha-MSH analog that preferentially activates the MC1R receptor on melanocytes, stimulating eumelanin synthesis and skin darkening. Its greater selectivity for MC1R over MC4R means it produces fewer libido and appetite effects than Melanotan II. The increased melanin provides photoprotection, which is the basis of its approval for a rare light-sensitivity disorder.

Half-life: Short in free form; clinical product uses a slow-release implant
Administration Routes: subcutaneous
Research Status: Clinical