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Melanotan II
Also known as: MT-II, MT2, Melanotan 2
Confidence
Updated 2026-03-18
Melanotan II is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) originally developed at the University of Arizona. It stimulates melanogenesis (tanning without UV exposure) and has sexual arousal effects through melanocortin receptor activation. PT-141 (bremelanotide) was developed as a derivative of Melanotan II, isolating the sexual health effects.
Class
Tanning / Sexual Health
Routes
Subcutaneous, Intranasal
Half-Life
~30–60 minutes
Non-selectively activates melanocortin receptors (MC1R through MC5R), leading to increased melanin production (tanning), appetite suppression, and sexual arousal. Its non-selectivity is both its appeal (multiple effects) and its primary safety concern (unpredictable multi-system effects).
Half-Life
~30–60 minutes
Bioavailability
Not formally established.
No approved indications. Used recreationally for tanning and sexual enhancement. Research: erythropoietic protoporphyria (limited).
Limited clinical studies from University of Arizona showing dose-dependent tanning and erectile response. No large-scale safety or efficacy trials. Significant real-world safety signals from unregulated use.
Human Studies
8
Animal Studies
20
Significant: nausea, facial flushing, fatigue, spontaneous erections (men). Serious: melanocyte stimulation may alter existing moles and potentially increase melanoma risk. Reports of darkening of pre-existing moles and new mole formation. Cardiovascular effects possible through melanocortin system.
FDA Category 2. FDA and international regulators have issued specific warnings about Melanotan II. Widely available on gray market internationally.
Recent Regulatory Activity
Drug Interactions: May interact with medications affecting melanin production or cardiovascular system. Research Gaps: Melanoma risk is the critical unanswered question. No long-term skin cancer safety data.
Subcutaneous (research context)
Common Range
0.25–1.0 mg/dose
Timing
Loading phase then maintenance
Frequency
Daily (loading), weekly (maintenance)
Cycling
Loading: 0.25mg daily increasing to desired tan, then 1–2x/week maintenance
Important Note
NOT FDA-approved. Significant safety concerns including potential melanoma risk.
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