Melanotan II
Also known as: Melanotan II, MT-2, MT-II
A synthetic melanocortin agonist that stimulates melanin production for tanning, with notable secondary effects on libido and appetite. Non-selective across melanocortin receptors.
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Mechanism of Action
Melanotan II is a cyclic analog of alpha-MSH that non-selectively activates melanocortin receptors, including MC1R (skin pigmentation) and MC4R (libido and appetite). MC1R activation increases eumelanin synthesis in melanocytes, darkening the skin and providing some photoprotection. Its activity at MC4R explains the commonly observed effects on sexual arousal and reduced appetite.
- Half-life
- Approximately 33-36 hours
- Administration Routes
- subcutaneous
- Research Status
- Research Chemical
Reported Benefits
- Stimulates skin tanning with reduced UV exposure
- May increase libido (MC4R activity)
- Appetite suppression in some users
- Some photoprotective effect from increased melanin
- Effects can persist between dosing cycles
Potential Side Effects
- Nausea and facial flushing
- Darkening of existing moles and new freckles (monitor dermatologically)
- Spontaneous erections in men
- Appetite suppression and occasional dizziness
- Unregulated purity and dosing concerns
Common Dosing
Research literature references a low-dose loading phase (~250-500 mcg daily) followed by maintenance dosing once tanning is achieved. Educational range only.
The dosing information above is aggregated from research literature and anecdotal community reports for educational purposes only. It is not a recommendation, prescription, or medical advice. Peptides are sold as research chemicals only and are not intended for human use.
Contraindications
- History of melanoma or atypical moles
- Numerous moles or family history of skin cancer
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Not approved for human use
Melanotan I
A selective MC1R-favoring melanocortin agonist approved (as Scenesse/afamelanotide) to reduce phototoxicity in erythropoietic protoporphyria. More selective for pigmentation than Melanotan II.
PT-141
A melanocortin receptor agonist FDA-approved (as Vyleesi) for hypoactive sexual desire disorder in premenopausal women. Acts centrally on the brain rather than the vascular system.
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Evaluation of melanotan-II, a superpotent cyclic melanotropic peptide in a pilot phase-I clinical study
1996
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Synthetic melanotropic peptide initiates erections in men with psychogenic erectile dysfunction: double-blind, placebo controlled crossover study
1998
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Risks of unregulated use of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone analogues: a review
2017
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Use of melanotan I and II in the general population
2009