Cosmetic & Skin

Melanotan II

Also known as: MT-II, MT2

Molecular Identifiers

Molecular Formula

C50H69N15O9

PubChem CID

92432

Overview

Melanocortin receptor agonist that promotes tanning. Synthetic α-MSH analog. Stimulates melanin production in melanocytes.

Extended notation: Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH₂

Cyclic peptide with non-natural amino acids (Nle, D-Phe)

Half-life

~30-60 minutes

Administration Route

Subcutaneous

Category

Cosmetic & Skin

Mechanism of Action

  • MC1R receptor agonism (pigmentation)
  • Stimulation of melanin production
  • Activity at MC3R and MC4R receptors (appetite, libido)
  • Photoprotection through increased melanin

Dosage Protocol

Data compiled from the literature. This does not constitute medical advice.

Parameter Value
Dose 250-500 mcg per injection
Frequency 3-7 times per week
Timing Any time of day
Duration Until desired pigmentation

Reported Side Effects

Adverse effects described in the literature. Severity and frequency vary between individuals.

  • Nausea
  • Facial flushing
  • Darkening of nevi
  • Increased libido
  • Spontaneous erection

Presentations & Preparation

Vials of Melanotan II found in the research market:

5 mg10 mg

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
Reconstitution Calculator

Scientific Studies

Published studies on Melanotan II.

1996 · Life Sci

Evaluation of melanotan-II, a superpotent cyclic melanotropic peptide in a pilot phase-I clinical study

Dorr RT, Lines R, Levine N, Brooks C, Xiang L, Hruby VJ, Hadley ME
2000 · Int J Impot Res

Melanocortin receptor agonists, penile erection, and sexual motivation: human studies with Melanotan II

Wessells H, Levine N, Hadley ME, Dorr R, Hruby V

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