Melanotan II
Also known as: MT-II, MT2
Molecular Identifiers
Overview
Melanocortin receptor agonist that promotes tanning. Synthetic α-MSH analog. Stimulates melanin production in melanocytes.
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
Product Properties
| Purity | >99% |
| Appearance | White lyophilized powder |
| Solubility | Soluble in water and bacteriostatic water |
| Source | Solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) |
| Storage | Lyophilized: -20°C for up to 2 years, 2-8°C for up to 6 months. Reconstituted: 2-8°C for up to 4 weeks. Cyclic structure with lactam bridge provides enhanced stability. Protect from light and moisture. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. |
Presentations & Preparation
Vials of Melanotan II 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 II.
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
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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