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Melanotan I

FDA Approved

Melanocortin Receptor Agonist

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

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.

Key Benefits

  • Precise dosing control with rapid tanning onset
  • Flexible home administration unlike implant version
  • Visible tanning within 1-2 weeks with UV exposure
  • Enhanced photoprotection through increased melanin
  • More selective for MC1R than Melanotan II
Molecular Weight
1646.88 Da
Type
Synthetic peptide analog
Amino Acid Sequence
α-melanocyte stimulating hormone analog

Complex or non-standard sequence format

Skin Health

  • Enhanced Tanning Response

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

  • Photoprotection

    Increased melanin density provides natural UV protection and reduces sunburn

  • Even Pigmentation

    Promotes uniform melanin distribution minimizing patchy tanning

Medical Applications

  • Erythropoietic Protoporphyria

    FDA-approved indication for SCENESSE implant

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
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
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

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

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
  • 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.