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Cosmetic
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Total Peptides: 31
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Melanotan-2
Tanning Effect85%
Studies4
Participants33
StatusOut of Stock

Melanotan-2

MT-II, Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH2

Melanotan-2 (MT-II) is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) that acts as a non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist. Originally developed for skin pigmentation research, it has also been investigated for erectile dysfunction. NOT FDA approved and carries significant safety warnings from health agencies worldwide due to serious adverse effects including potential melanoma risk.

Complete Research Database

Dual Receptor Mechanism (GIP/GLP-1)

GLP-1 Receptor Pathway

  • •Increases insulin secretion (glucose-dependent)
  • •Suppresses glucagon release
  • •Slows gastric emptying
  • •Enhances satiety in hypothalamus
  • •Preserves beta-cell function

GIP Receptor Pathway

  • •Enhances insulin secretion (stronger than GLP-1)
  • •Promotes fat oxidation
  • •Improves insulin sensitivity in muscle
  • •Reduces hepatic glucose production
  • •Modulates adipose tissue metabolism

Why Dual Agonism is Superior

Melanotan-2 functions as a non-selective agonist of melanocortin receptors (MC1, MC3, MC4, and MC5). Primary mechanism involves binding to MC1 receptors on melanocytes, activating adenylyl cyclase and increasing cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels. This leads to activation of protein kinase A (PKA) and phosphorylation of cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB), ultimately stimulating transcription of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) and tyrosinase, key enzymes in melanin synthesis. MC4 receptor activation in the central nervous system affects sexual behavior and appetite regulation through hypothalamic pathways, while MC3 receptor involvement may contribute to energy homeostasis effects.

Pharmacokinetic Profile

~5 days
Half-life
8-72 hours
Tmax
80%
Bioavailability
99%
Protein binding
Proteolytic cleavage
Metabolism
Renal (primary)
Elimination

Top 10 High-Quality Research Articles

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

Read
Life Sciences (1996)
N = 3
High Impact
Dose-dependent skin pigmentation and sexual effects observed at 0.01-0.03 mg/kg, with mild nausea at most doses
DOI: 10.1016/0024-3205(96)00160-0

Synthetic melanotropic peptide initiates erections in men with psychogenic erectile dysfunction

Read
Urology (1998)
N = 10
High Impact
80% response rate with mean 38 minutes of >80% penile rigidity (p=0.0045 vs placebo)
DOI: 10.1016/s0090-4295(97)00686-6

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

Read
International Journal of Impotence Research (2000)
N = 20
High Impact
17/20 men achieved erections, 41-minute average duration, increased sexual desire in 68% of doses
DOI: 10.1038/sj.ijir.3900639

Melanotan II injection resulting in systemic toxicity and rhabdomyolysis

Read
Clinical Toxicology (2012)
N = 1
High Impact
Case report of severe systemic toxicity including rhabdomyolysis and renal dysfunction at 6mg dose
DOI: 10.3109/15563650.2012.740637

Beware the Barbie drug: the dangers of using Melanotan

Read
Therapeutic Goods Administration Warning (2022)
N = 0
High Impact
Regulatory warning citing increased mole development, nausea, and potential melanoma risk
DOI: TGA/2022/WARN/MT2
Search PubMed for 'Melanotan II clinical trial' or 'MT-II melanocortin receptor' for additional peer-reviewed research. Note: Most recent research focuses on safety concerns rather than therapeutic applications.

Medical Disclaimer

CRITICAL WARNING: Melanotan-2 is NOT approved by the FDA or any major regulatory agency for human use. Health authorities worldwide have issued warnings against its use due to serious safety risks including potential melanoma, priapism, rhabdomyolysis, and systemic toxicity. This information is for educational and research purposes only. Any use requires medical supervision and carries significant legal and health risks. Consult healthcare providers for approved alternatives.