Melanotan IIResearch guide
Synthetic alpha-MSH analog researched for melanogenesis, UV-independent tanning, and libido effects
Half-life
~1 hour
Typical Dose
250-500 mcg SC
Format
Injectable
Purity
≥98%
Overview
Melanotan II (MT-II) is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) developed in the 1980s at the University of Arizona. It was originally pursued as a skin cancer preventative — the hypothesis being that stimulating melanin production without UV exposure would reduce subsequent UV-induced DNA damage. It also has notable secondary effects on libido and appetite owing to activity at central melanocortin receptors.
Mechanism
Non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist active at MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R. MC1R activation on melanocytes drives eumelanin synthesis, producing darker pigmentation without UV exposure. MC3R/MC4R activation in the central nervous system is thought to mediate the libido and appetite effects. MC5R is involved in sebaceous and exocrine function.
Researched benefits
- Skin pigmentation and melanogenesis research
- UV-independent tanning protocol
- Libido and sexual arousal effects
- Appetite modulation
- Melanocortin receptor research tool
- Broad MC receptor activity (MC1R-MC5R)
Frequently asked
How does Melanotan II differ from PT-141?
PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is a metabolite of Melanotan II, selected for its activity on the libido-related MC3R/MC4R pathways while lacking the MC1R pigmentation effects. If the research goal is sexual function without tanning, PT-141 is the cleaner tool. If skin pigmentation is the target, MT-II is what was studied.
Why 'load' then maintain?
Typical research protocols use a loading phase (250-500 mcg daily until desired pigmentation is reached, often 2-3 weeks) followed by maintenance (same dose 2-3x weekly). This mirrors melanocyte biology — initial stimulation drives new pigment production, then less frequent dosing sustains it as melanin naturally turns over.
Does MT-II cause nausea?
Transient nausea and facial flushing are the most commonly reported effects in research subjects, typically within 30-60 minutes of injection and resolving within 1-2 hours. Starting with small doses (100 mcg) and titrating up is the standard approach to minimize these effects.
How is MT-II reconstituted?
Bacteriostatic water is the standard diluent. For a 10mg vial, 1mL of BAC water yields 10mg/mL (so 250 mcg = 0.025mL, or 2.5 units on a U-100 insulin syringe). Refrigerate after reconstitution and protect from light.
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