Melanotan II

Human clinical Skin & Hair In 1 protocol 3 sources

Melanotan II is a synthetic analog of the alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It was originally developed to induce skin pigmentation (tanning) to protect against UV radiation, but research also demonstrated significant effects on sexual arousal and erectile function.

01Dosing reference

Amount

250-500 mcg per injection

Frequency

Once daily or every other day until desired pigmentation is reached, then reduced to a maintenance dose of 1-2x/week

Cycle

Loading phase of 2-4 weeks, followed by a maintenance phase

Reference figures, not a recommendationThese values reflect amounts described in the literature and vendor documentation this database indexes. Use the reconstitution calculator to convert them into syringe units.

02Mechanism of action

Melanocortin Receptor Agonism

Binds non-selectively to melanocortin receptors (MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R).

Melanogenesis and CNS Activation

Stimulates melanin production in the skin via MC1R and activates pathways in the central nervous system related to sexual arousal via MC4R.

Physiological Response

Results in increased skin pigmentation and enhanced erectile function or sexual desire.

03Human evidence

Demonstrated ability to induce skin tanning without sun exposure.

Early clinical trials in healthy volunteers showed increased pigmentation, though accompanied by nausea and facial flushing.

Improved erectile function in men with psychogenic erectile dysfunction.

Double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover studies showed significant improvements in erections compared to placebo.

04Preclinical evidence

Increased sexual behavior and arousal in animal models.

Rodent studies demonstrated that central administration of Melanotan II stimulates erectile activity and sexual desire.

Potential effects on food intake and metabolism.

Animal research indicates that MC4R activation by Melanotan II can reduce appetite and influence energy homeostasis.

05What is known vs. unknown

Reasonably established

Stimulates melanin production, leading to skin darkening.
Acts as a potent aphrodisiac and improves erectile function.
Non-selective binding to multiple melanocortin receptors causes a wide range of effects.
Common side effects include nausea, flushing, and spontaneous erections.

Unknowns & limits

Long-term safety of unregulated use is unknown, particularly regarding melanoma risk.
Optimal dosing to minimize side effects while maintaining efficacy remains poorly defined.

06Safety & regulatory context

Regulatory statusMelanotan II is not FDA-approved for any medical condition and is often sold as a research chemical. Common side effects observed in studies include nausea, facial flushing, fatigue, and spontaneous erections. There are significant concerns regarding its unregulated use, including potential risks of atypical moles, melanoma, and cardiovascular effects. Regulatory agencies have issued warnings against its use due to the lack of safety data and quality control in illicitly manufactured products.

07Compared with Melanotan I (Afamelanotide)

Melanotan II vs. Melanotan I (Afamelanotide)

Key difference

Melanotan I is more selective for the MC1R receptor, focusing primarily on skin pigmentation with fewer central nervous system effects, whereas Melanotan II crosses the blood-brain barrier more readily and affects MC4R, leading to sexual arousal.

When researchers discuss each

Melanotan I is discussed in the context of phototoxicity and erythropoietic protoporphyria (for which it is FDA-approved as Scenesse), while Melanotan II is discussed for its dual effects on tanning and sexual dysfunction.

08Appears in protocols

☀️ Melanotan II Tanning Protocol

0.25-0.5 mg (5-10 units)Daily during loading (2-3 weeks), then 1-2x/week maintenance

09Glossary

Melanocortin Receptors

A family of receptors in the body that regulate various functions including skin pigmentation, appetite, and sexual function.

Melanogenesis

The process by which melanin (pigment) is produced in the skin.

Alpha-MSH

Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone, a naturally occurring hormone that stimulates melanin production.

10Knowledge check

Q1Which receptor is primarily responsible for the sexual arousal effects of Melanotan II?

Q2Why does Melanotan II cause more side effects like nausea and spontaneous erections compared to Melanotan I?

Q3Which documented limitation in the dossier most directly affects our ability to draw conclusions about Melanotan II and future melanoma risk?

Q4According to the dossier, how are Melanotan I (afamelanotide) and Melanotan II most often distinguished in research discussions?

Q5Which statement about the regulatory and safety context of Melanotan II is supported by the dossier?

11Sources

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Afamelanotide (Scenesse, Melanotan I)

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16 mg (as Scenesse implant) or 1-2 mg/day (research peptide form)

Research and educational use onlyNothing on this site is medical advice, a prescription, or a recommendation for human use. Compounds documented here are research chemicals. Consult a qualified clinician before making any health decision.