Melanotan II
MT-II — Melanocortin Receptor Agonist
What is Melanotan II?
Melanotan II is a synthetic analog of alpha-MSH that activates multiple melanocortin receptors (MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R). Originally developed as a tanning agent to reduce UV-induced skin cancer risk, it also produces erectile response, appetite suppression, and sexual arousal through MC4R activation in the hypothalamus.
MC1R activation drives melanin production in melanocytes causing skin darkening without UV exposure. MC4R activation in the hypothalamus drives sexual arousal, erectile response, and appetite suppression. The broad receptor binding profile produces both tanning and sexual/appetite effects simultaneously — distinguishing it from the more selective PT-141.
Research Evidence
Clinical studies confirm dose-dependent melanin production and skin darkening without UV exposure. Effects persist for weeks after discontinuation.
Phase 2 clinical trials demonstrated significant erectile response in men with psychogenic and organic erectile dysfunction. PT-141 was derived from MT-II to isolate this effect.
Consistent appetite reduction observed in clinical and community use through MC4R hypothalamic activation.
Evidence grades: Gold = RCT human data · Silver = consistent animal/human data · Bronze = limited or preliminary
Dosing Protocols
Reconstitution Guide
| Vial Size | BAC Water | Concentration | Target draw |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 mg | 10 ml | 1 mg/ml | 0.5mg = 50 units |
| 10 mg | 5 ml | 2 mg/ml | 0.5mg = 25 units |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Melanotan II the same as PT-141?
No. PT-141 was derived from Melanotan II by removing the tanning mechanism. PT-141 is MC3R/MC4R selective — producing sexual arousal without tanning. Melanotan II activates all melanocortin receptors including MC1R (tanning) and MC4R (sexual arousal). For tanning plus libido, use MT-II. For sexual arousal only, use PT-141.
Does Melanotan II work without sun exposure?
Yes. Melanotan II stimulates melanin production through MC1R activation independent of UV exposure. Some sun exposure amplifies the darkening effect, but the tanning mechanism is pharmacological rather than UV-driven.
References
- [1]Dorr RT, Lines R, Levine N, et al. Evaluation of melanotan-II, a superpotent cyclic melanotropic peptide in a pilot phase-I clinical study. Life Sci. 1996;58(20):1777-1784.
- [2]Wessells H, Fuciarelli K, Hansen J, et al. Synthetic melanotropic peptide initiates erections in men with psychogenic erectile dysfunction. J Urol. 1998;160(2):389-393.
This profile was prepared using AI-assisted research synthesis. Citations are provided where applicable — verify with primary sources before clinical application.
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