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Melanotan II

Tags: Melanotan II, Tanning, Sexual Function, Melanocortin

Quick Summary

Melanotan II is a synthetic α-MSH analog that activates melanocortin receptors for rapid UV-free tanning, enhanced sexual function, and appetite suppression. Requires careful dosing to manage side effects; not approved for therapeutic use.

Quick Facts

  • Typical Dose: 0.25–1 mg (loading), 1–2× daily initially; maintenance often 0.5–1 mg 2–3× weekly
  • Route: Injectable — Subcutaneous (abdomen preferred, thigh, upper arm)
  • Cycle: 4–8 weeks (typical)
  • Storage: 2–8°C (refrigerated)

Overview

Melanotan II is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) that stimulates melanin production for skin tanning and has additional effects on sexual arousal and appetite suppression. Originally developed at the University of Arizona as a sunless tanning agent, it has gained attention for its dual effects on pigmentation and sexual function through melanocortin receptor activation.

Key Benefits

  • Rapid tanning without UV exposure
  • Enhanced libido and sexual function
  • Appetite suppression
  • Improved mood via melanocortin activation

Mechanism of action

Binds to melanocortin receptors (MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R). MC1R activation stimulates melanocytes to produce eumelanin; MC4R influences sexual arousal and appetite regulation.

Research Indications

  • UV‑free tanning (Most Effective)
  • Photoprotection (increased natural SPF)
  • Even pigmentation and some pigmentation disorders
  • Hormonal effects (sexual function)

Research Protocols

Goal Dose Frequency Route
Initial Loading 0.25 mg Daily Subcutaneous
Tanning Maintenance 0.5–1 mg 2–3× weekly Subcutaneous
Sexual Enhancement 0.5–1 mg As needed Subcutaneous
Minimal Side Effects 0.1–0.25 mg Every other day Subcutaneous
Photoprotection 0.5 mg 2× weekly Subcutaneous

Timing: For tanning: morning dosing preferred. For sexual effects: 2–4 hours before activity. Splitting daily dose can reduce side effects.

Interactions

Compatible / Complementary

  • Melanotan I — Compatible
  • Photoprotective agents — Compatible
  • Appetite suppressants — May have additive effects

Monitor

  • Antihypertensive agents — Monitor blood pressure; MT-II may elevate BP
  • Stimulants (caffeine, amphetamines) — May amplify cardiovascular effects
  • Photosensitizing medications — Use caution

Avoid

  • History of melanoma or dysplastic nevi — Contraindicated
  • Uncontrolled hypertension — Avoid; MT-II elevates blood pressure
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding — Not recommended

How to Reconstitute

  1. Clean vial tops with alcohol swab and let dry.
  2. Draw 2 mL bacteriostatic water for a 10 mg vial (creates ~5 mg/mL concentration).
  3. Inject water slowly down the side of the peptide vial to avoid foaming.
  4. Gently roll vial between hands — do not shake vigorously.
  5. Solution should be clear to slightly yellow; cloudiness indicates degradation.
  6. Store reconstituted peptide refrigerated and wrap in foil (light sensitive).
  7. Draw dose with an insulin syringe — typical dose is 0.05–0.2 mL depending on concentration.

Quality Indicators

Positive Signs

  • White to off-white lyophilized powder (before reconstitution)
  • Clear to pale yellow solution when reconstituted
  • Vacuum-sealed vial with intact seal (pop sound when penetrating stopper is normal)
  • Protected from light exposure (stored in foil-wrapped or amber vials)
  • Clear reconstitution without particles

Warning Signs

  • Brown or dark powder indicates oxidation/impurities — do not use
  • Cloudy reconstituted solution suggests degradation — discard immediately
  • Broken vial seal or lack of vacuum
  • Exposed to light (not in protective packaging)

What to expect

  • Day 1–3: Possible nausea, flushing, and fatigue after injection
  • Day 3–7: Increased spontaneous erections (men), enhanced arousal
  • Week 1–2: Noticeable skin darkening, reduced appetite
  • Week 2–4: Significant tanning, stabilized sexual effects
  • Week 4+: Maintained tan with less frequent dosing

Side effects & safety

  • Start with very low dose (0.1–0.25 mg) to assess tolerance
  • Nausea is common; pre-treatment with an antiemetic can help
  • Monitor moles and freckles for changes in size or color
  • Stay hydrated to minimize headaches and flushing
  • Avoid if history of melanoma or dysplastic nevi
  • Blood pressure may increase temporarily after injection

References

Phase II Trial of Melanotan II in Erectile Dysfunction (2000)

  • Human | 0.025 mg/kg | 3 months | 80% response rate

Double-blind placebo-controlled study showed significant improvement in erectile function, with effects beginning within 1–2 hours of subcutaneous injection.

Melanogenesis and UV Protection Study (1999)

  • Human | 0.16 mg/kg daily | 10 days | Increased melanin density

Demonstrated significant increase in eumelanin content and skin pigmentation with corresponding increase in UV protection factor.

Female Sexual Arousal Disorder Trial (2004)

  • Human (Female) | 0.025 mg/kg | Single dose | 73% reported arousal

Crossover study showed significant increases in genital arousal and sexual desire within 24 hours of administration.