Overview
Melanotan II is classified as a melanocortin agonist peptide. Tanning, libido enhancement.
MC4R activation. Non-selectively activates melanocortin receptors to stimulate melanin production, suppress appetite, and increase sexual arousal.
Also known as: MT-II, MT-2
Category
Melanocortin Agonist
Half-Life
1h
Route
SubQ
FDA Status
Not Approved
How Does Melanotan II Work?
MC4R activation. Non-selectively activates melanocortin receptors to stimulate melanin production, suppress appetite, and increase sexual arousal.
At the molecular level, Melanotan II operates through pathways characteristic of the Melanocortin Agonist class, interacting with target receptors and downstream signaling cascades to produce its observed effects.
Published Research
The following studies are indexed from PubMed and peer-reviewed journals:
[1]Melanotan II tanning and erectile effects Phase I
Dorr et al. (J. Investigative Dermatol.): Phase I trial in normal male volunteers confirming tanning activity and spontaneous penile erections. Side effects: nausea, somnolence.
Evidence: moderate[2]Melanotan II as potent initiator of penile erection
Wessells et al. (J. Urology): Double-blind study showing MT-II initiates erection in men with erectile dysfunction even without sexual stimulation.
Evidence: moderate[3]Melanotan II as skin cancer chemopreventive peptide
Hadley & Dorr (Peptides): Review of MT-II as potential chemopreventive agent for UV-induced skin cancer through enhanced eumelanin synthesis.
Evidence: preclinical[4]Development of selective MC4R agonists from Melanotan II
Hruby et al. describe development of functionally selective melanocortin receptor agonists derived from MT-II to separate desired from unwanted pharmacological effects.
Evidence: preclinicalSafety Profile
Nausea common; research-only. SIGNIFICANT SAFETY CONCERNS: changes to moles, elevated BP. Actively warned against by FDA/TGA.
| Side Effect | Incidence | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Nausea | ~45% of users | moderate |
| Facial flushing | ~30% of users | mild |
| Fatigue | ~15% of users | mild |
| Spontaneous erections (men) | ~20% of men | mild |
| Mole changes (darkening) | Variable | uncommon |
Sourcing Melanotan II for Research
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Full Research Profile
Melanotan II — dosing, interactions, timelines & more
Comprehensive compound profile with sourcing information, stacking synergies, and outcome timelines.