Melanotan II
Synthetic Melanocortin Peptide | Tanning & Sexual Function
Melanotan II is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) that stimulates melanin production for skin tanning and has additional effects on sexual arousal and appetite suppression. Originally developed at the University of Arizona as a sunless tanning agent, it has gained attention for its dual effects on pigmentation and sexual function through melanocortin receptor activation.
Daily dose
0.25-1mg
Frequency
1-2x daily
Cycle length
4-8 weeks
Storage
2-8°C
Key benefits
Rapid tanning without UV exposure, enhanced libido and sexual function, appetite suppression, and improved mood through melanocortin activation.
How it works
Binds to melanocortin receptors (MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R) throughout the body. MC1R activation stimulates melanocytes to produce eumelanin, while MC4R affects sexual arousal and appetite regulation.
Dosage protocols
Goal
Initial Loading
Dose
0.25mg · Daily
Route
Subcutaneous
Goal
Tanning Maintenance
Dose
0.5-1mg · 2-3x weekly
Route
Subcutaneous
Goal
Sexual Enhancement
Dose
0.5-1mg · As needed
Route
Subcutaneous
Goal
Minimal Side Effects
Dose
0.1-0.25mg · Every other day
Route
Subcutaneous
Goal
Photoprotection
Dose
0.5mg · 2x weekly
Route
Subcutaneous
Research indications
skin Health
hormonal
metabolic
Administration
Interactions
Safety notes
Start with very low dose (0.1-0.25mg) to assess tolerance
Nausea is common - can pre-treat with antiemetic if needed
Monitor moles and freckles for changes in size or color
Stay hydrated to minimize headaches and flushing
Avoid if history of melanoma or dysplastic nevi
Blood pressure may increase temporarily after injection
Research studies
Cardiovascular Effects Assessment (2018)
Human | Various doses | Acute monitoring | Mild BP elevation
Comprehensive cardiovascular monitoring revealed transient increases in blood pressure and heart rate, typically mild and self-limiting but requiring consideration in at-risk populations.
Photoprotection in Fair-Skinned Individuals (2015)
Human (Fitzpatrick Type I-II) | 0.1mg/kg | 3 months | Reduced sunburn incidence
Long-term study showed sustained increase in melanin production and significant reduction in UV-induced erythema in individuals with high sunburn susceptibility.
Female Sexual Arousal Disorder Trial (2004)
Human (Female) | 0.025mg/kg | Single dose | 73% reported arousal
Crossover study in premenopausal women with sexual arousal disorder showed significant increases in genital arousal and sexual desire within 24 hours of administration.
Appetite and Food Intake Study (2001)
Human | 1mg daily | 6 weeks | 15% reduction in caloric intake
Demonstrated significant reduction in food intake and modest weight loss through central melanocortin receptor activation, particularly MC4R in hypothalamus.
Phase II Trial of Melanotan II in Erectile Dysfunction (2000)
Human | 0.025mg/kg | 3 months | 80% response rate
Double-blind placebo-controlled study showed significant improvement in erectile function in men with psychogenic ED, with effects beginning within 1-2 hours of subcutaneous injection.
Melanogenesis and UV Protection Study (1999)
Human | 0.16mg/kg daily | 10 days | Increased melanin density
Demonstrated significant increase in eumelanin content and skin pigmentation with corresponding increase in UV protection factor, achieving natural tan without UV exposure.