Melanotan II
Melanotan II
Melanotan II is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone. It was originally developed to promote tanning without UV exposure. Research has shown effects on skin pigmentation, appetite, and sexual function.
Buy Melanotan II at Peptide PalacePurity
99%+
Molecular Weight
1024.18 g/mol
Administration
Subcutaneous injection
Storage
Store at -20°C
Mechanism of Action
Melanotan II activates melanocortin receptors, particularly MC1R (for pigmentation) and MC4R (for appetite and sexual function). It stimulates melanogenesis in melanocytes, leading to increased skin pigmentation.
Sequence:
Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH2 Chemical Structure
Research Areas
- Skin pigmentation
- UV protection research
- Appetite regulation
- Sexual dysfunction
- Melanoma prevention
Potential Benefits
- Increased melanin production
- Tanning without UV exposure
- Appetite suppression
- Enhanced libido
- Potential photoprotection
Research Dosing Guidelines
For research purposes only. Not for human consumption.
Typical Dose
0.25-0.5 mg
Frequency
Daily during loading, then maintenance
Duration
Loading phase 2-3 weeks, then as needed
Administration
Subcutaneous injection
Start with very low dose to assess tolerance. UV exposure enhances tanning effect.
Reconstitution Calculator
U-100 Insulin Syringe
For research and educational purposes only. Always follow proper reconstitution and sterile handling protocols.
Melanotan II vs PT-141: Understanding the Derivatives
PT-141 (Bremelanotide) was directly derived from Melanotan II research. While they share melanocortin receptor activity, their applications and side-effect profiles differ substantially.
Comparison
| Factor | Melanotan II | PT-141 (Bremelanotide) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary use | Tanning, pigmentation | Sexual dysfunction |
| Receptor targets | MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R | MC3R, MC4R primarily |
| Skin darkening | Significant | Minimal at standard doses |
| Sexual effects | Present (secondary) | Primary therapeutic target |
| FDA status | Not approved | FDA-approved (Vyleesi) |
| Nausea | Common | Common |
Melanotan II's broader receptor profile produces more diverse effects (tanning + appetite + sexual), while PT-141's more targeted action focuses specifically on sexual desire through the CNS.
Potential Side Effects
- Nausea (especially initially)
- Facial flushing
- Fatigue
- Darkening of existing moles
- Spontaneous erections
Storage Requirements
Store at -20°C. Protect from light.
Research References
- [1]Melanotan II and Melanogenesis (1996)Emerging Evidence Population: Murine melanoma cell models and human skin equivalents
Melanotan II stimulated melanogenesis and produced significant skin darkening without UV exposure in animal models.
Limitations: In-vitro/animal model; human pigmentation response varies significantly
- [2]Novel Melanogenic Drugs: Melanotan-I and -II (1998)Preclinical Population: Review of preclinical and Phase I human studies
Both Melanotan analogs demonstrated potent melanogenic activity; Melanotan II additionally showed appetite-suppressing and sexual function effects via MC4R.
Limitations: Safety profile for long-term use not characterized
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Melanotan II?
Melanotan II is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone originally developed to promote tanning without UV exposure. Research has revealed additional effects on skin pigmentation, appetite regulation, and sexual function through melanocortin receptor activation.
What are the potential research benefits of Melanotan II?
Research suggests Melanotan II may increase melanin production for enhanced skin pigmentation, suppress appetite, and enhance libido through activation of MC1R and MC4R receptors. Its potential for photoprotection without UV exposure is an active area of investigation.
How is Melanotan II typically dosed in research?
Melanotan II is typically administered at 0.25-0.5 mg daily via subcutaneous injection during a loading phase of 2-3 weeks, followed by maintenance dosing as needed. Starting with very low doses to assess tolerance is recommended, and UV exposure enhances the tanning effect.
What are the side effects of Melanotan II?
Side effects of Melanotan II may include nausea (especially during initial use), facial flushing, fatigue, darkening of existing moles, and spontaneous erections. These effects are generally dose-dependent and may diminish over time.
How should Melanotan II be stored?
Melanotan II should be stored at -20°C in lyophilized form and protected from light. Proper storage is essential to preserve the peptide's structural integrity and melanogenic activity.
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Safety & Reference
Related Peptides
PT-141
Bremelanotide (PT-141)
PT-141, also known as Bremelanotide, is a synthetic peptide analog of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone. It was initially developed for tanning effects but showed significant effects on sexual function through direct CNS pathways rather than vascular mechanisms.
Learn More