Melanotan II

Mechanism of action: Melanocortin receptor agonist (primarily MC1R, with activity at other melanocortin receptors); Increases eumelanin production; May influence sexual arousal and appetite through central nervous system pathways

Proposed indications: Photoprotection in photosensitive disorders; Cosmetic tanning; Sexual dysfunction; Appetite suppression

Reported dosing range*: 0.025 mg/kg, subcutaneous

A double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study evaluated subcutaneous doses of 0.025 mg/kg body weight in 10 men with psychogenic erectile dysfunction (Wessells H et al. (1998). Synthetic Melanotropic Peptide Initiates Erections in Men With Psychogenic Erectile Dysfunction: Double-Blind, Placebo Controlled Crossover Study. Journal of Urology).

*General range reported in available research or other sources -- not an individualized recommendation. Actual use should be supervised by a qualified provider.

Typical clinical dosing schedule: No approved clinical dosing exists. Any dosing protocols found online are not established by regulatory authorities.

Administration: Subcutaneous injection (typically discussed in unregulated settings; no approved pharmaceutical formulation exists) — No approved clinical dosing exists

Compare with: PT-141 (Bremelanotide)

An "emerging / limited evidence" rating means rigorous research hasn't caught up yet -- not that this peptide doesn't work. Many peptides in this category are newer or simply understudied rather than proven ineffective.

Evidence rating: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ — The pigmentation effect is well documented, but approved therapeutic use is lacking and long-term safety data are limited.

Landmark trials: Early clinical studies — Demonstrated increased pigmentation and UV tolerance. However, concerns regarding unregulated use and limited long-term safety have prevented regulatory approval.

Common side effects: Nausea, Flushing, Increased libido, Facial redness, Darkening of existing moles and freckles

Serious risks: Unknown long-term carcinogenic risk; Changes in pigmented lesions requiring dermatologic evaluation; Product quality concerns in unregulated markets

Drug interactions: No established interaction profile.

Monitoring: Regular skin examinations, Monitoring of pigmented lesions, Assessment for adverse effects

Legal status: Not FDA-approved for human use. This is a research compound, not a medication — any use should only occur under the direction of a licensed healthcare provider, and its legal availability varies and changes frequently. Verify current status independently before considering use.

Regulatory status: Research compound • Not FDA approved • Not EMA approved

Contraindications: Personal history of melanoma or atypical nevi; Pregnancy; Known hypersensitivity; Use caution in individuals with significant dermatologic disease

Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Avoid due to insufficient safety data.

Hadley ME, et al. Early clinical studies of Melanotan peptides. Abdel-Malek ZA, et al. Reviews on melanocortin biology and pigmentation.