Melanotan I
Also known as: Afamelanotide, MT-I
Molecular Identifiers
Overview
Synthetic α-MSH analog with high affinity for the MC1R receptor. Promotes tanning and photoprotection by stimulating eumelanin production in melanocytes. Developed as a treatment for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) and photoprotection in sensitive skin.
Ac-Ser-Tyr-Ser-Nle-Glu-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Gly-Lys-Pro-Val-NH₂ Contains non-natural amino acids (Nle, D-Phe)
Half-life
~30 minutes
Administration Route
Subcutaneous
Category
Cosmetic & Skin
Mechanism of Action
- Selective MC1R receptor agonism in melanocytes
- Stimulation of melanogenesis and eumelanin production
- Photoprotection through increased skin pigmentation
- Activation of the cAMP/PKA pathway in melanocytes
- Protective effect against UV radiation damage
Dosage Protocol
Data compiled from the literature. This does not constitute medical advice.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose | 0.5-1 mg per injection |
| Frequency | Every other day (loading phase), weekly (maintenance) |
| Timing | Any time of day |
| Duration | Loading 10-14 days, continuous weekly maintenance |
Reported Side Effects
Adverse effects described in the literature. Severity and frequency vary between individuals.
- Nausea
- Facial flushing
- Fatigue
- Darkening of nevi
- Pain at injection site
Presentations & Preparation
Vials of Melanotan I found in the research market:
Reconstitution
- Diluent: Bacteriostatic water
- Volume: 2 ml per vial
- Inject the diluent slowly against the vial wall
- Gently swirl until fully dissolved
- Never shake
Storage
- Lyophilized: Refrigerated 2-8°C
- Reconstituted: Refrigerated 2-8°C (up to 30 days)
- Protect from direct light
- Do not freeze after reconstitution
Scientific Studies
Published studies on Melanotan I.
[Nle4-D-Phe7]-alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone significantly increased pigmentation and decreased UV damage in fair-skinned Caucasian volunteers
Barnetson RS, Ooi TK, Zhuang L, Halliday GM, Reid CM, Walker PC, Humphrey SM, Kleinig MJ
Afamelanotide for Erythropoietic Protoporphyria
Langendonk JG, Balwani M, Anderson KE, Bonkovsky HL, Anstey AV, Bissell DM, et al.
Afamelanotide and narrowband UV-B phototherapy for the treatment of vitiligo: a randomized multicenter trial
Lim HW, Grimes PE, Agbai O, Hamzavi I, Henderson M, Haddican M, Linkner RV, Lebwohl M
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