Melanotan I (MT-I)

FDA Approved

Melanocortin Receptor Agonist

Weight: 1646.88 Da
Half-life: ~30 minutes
3 studies
2004 latest
FDA Approved
Dose Loading: 0.25-0.5mg daily; Maintenance: 0.25-0.5mg 2-3x weekly
Frequency Loading phase: 1-2x daily for 1-2 weeks, then maintenance 2-3x weekly
Cycle 2-4 week loading phase, then ongoing maintenance as needed
Storage Refrigerate reconstituted solution at 2-8°C, use within 4 weeks
Accumulation Plotter

Community Research

Join others researching Melanotan I — share findings, ask questions, and learn from real experiences

View Results Aggregated community findings
Discussion Questions & experiences
Submit Your Findings Contribute your research data

Synthetic analog of α-MSH that selectively targets MC1 receptors for melanin stimulation. FDA-approved as SCENESSE implant for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). Research-grade injectable form enables flexible dosing versus the implant version.

Mechanism of Action

Subcutaneous injection delivers peptide directly into systemic circulation. Selectively activates MC1R receptors to stimulate melanin production. Short half-life of approximately 30 minutes necessitates multiple daily dosing for sustained effect.

01 Precise dosing control with rapid tanning onset
02 Flexible home administration unlike implant version
03 Visible tanning within 1-2 weeks with UV exposure
04 Enhanced photoprotection through increased melanin
05 More selective for MC1R than Melanotan II

Molecular Data

Molecular Weight
1646.88 Da
Type
Synthetic peptide analog
Amino Acid Sequence
α-melanocyte stimulating hormone analog

Complex or non-standard sequence format

Peak 0.0 mcg
Trough 0.0 mcg
SS Peak 0.0 mcg
SS Trough 0.0 mcg

Research Indications

Skin Health
Enhanced Tanning Response most effective

Stimulates melanin for deeper, longer-lasting tans with reduced UV requirements

Photoprotection most effective

Increased melanin density provides natural UV protection and reduces sunburn

Even Pigmentation effective

Promotes uniform melanin distribution minimizing patchy tanning

Medical Applications
Erythropoietic Protoporphyria most effective

FDA-approved indication for SCENESSE implant

Dosing Protocols

Subcutaneous injection with rotation between abdomen, thigh, and upper arm.

GoalDoseFrequencyRoute
Loading phase0.25-0.5mg1-2x daily for 1-2 weeksSubcutaneous
Maintenance0.25-0.5mg2-3x weeklySubcutaneous

Reconstitution Instructions

Materials Needed:
  • 10mg Melanotan I vial
  • Bacteriostatic water
  • Insulin syringes
  • Alcohol swabs
  1. 1 Clean vial top with alcohol pad
  2. 2 Add 2mL bacteriostatic water for 5mg/mL concentration
  3. 3 Gently swirl - do not shake
  4. 4 Solution should be clear and colorless
  5. 5 Store refrigerated for up to 4 weeks

Interactions

!
Melanotan II
Overlapping mechanisms; avoid combining
avoid
++
UV Exposure
Reduces required UV dose by approximately 50%
synergistic
+
Beta-Carotene
Provides additional photoprotection
compatible
~
Tretinoin/Retinoids
Retinoids increase photosensitivity; monitor skin reactions
monitor
~
Photosensitizing Medications
Enhanced monitoring recommended
monitor

What to Expect

Days 1-3
Possible mild nausea, facial flushing, reduced appetite
Days 3-7
Initial skin darkening, increased mole/freckle pigmentation
Week 1-2
Noticeable tanning with minimal UV exposure
Week 2-4
Peak effects, maintained pigmentation with reduced frequency

Side Effects & Safety

Common Side Effects

  • Mild nausea
  • Facial flushing
  • Reduced appetite
  • Increased mole/freckle pigmentation

Stop Signs - Discontinue if:

  • Severe nausea/vomiting lasting >24 hours
  • Rapid concerning mole/freckle changes
  • Injection site infection signs
  • Unusual skin reactions
  • Allergic reaction symptoms

Quality Checklist

Good Signs

  • Third-party HPLC testing confirming >98% purity
  • Proper lyophilized powder storage
  • Clear, colorless reconstitution
  • Minimal side effects profile

Warning Signs

  • Check expiration dates

Bad Signs

  • Pre-mixed liquid solutions (degrade rapidly)
  • Cloudy or discolored solution

References

  • MT-I Photoprotection Study
    PubMed (2004)

    Demonstrated significant photoprotection effects

  • Melanocortin Receptor Binding Study
    PubMed (1997)

    Characterized MC1R selectivity

  • Pharmacokinetics Injectable MT-I
    PubMed (1997)

    Established half-life and bioavailability parameters

Disclaimer

This information is for educational and research purposes only. Consult a healthcare professional before use.