Melanotan II

Melanotan II (MT-II)

Synthetic α-MSH analog · originally developed for melanoma prevention

FDA Status

Not FDA-approved · Banned in EU as research chemical

Class

Cyclic heptapeptide · α-MSH analog

Sequence

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

Half-life

~30 min · effect cumulative

Mechanism of action

• Melanocortin receptor agonism (MC1R, MC3R, MC4R)
• MC1R → melanin synthesis (skin darkening)
• MC4R → appetite suppression and erectile function
• Non-selective receptor profile drives side effects

Research areas

• Erythropoietic protoporphyria (parent compound afamelanotide is approved)
• UV-induced skin damage protection (theoretical)
• Erectile dysfunction (off-label)
• Appetite/body weight (rarely sustained)

Evidence and clinical data

Parent compound afamelanotide (Scenesse) is FDA-approved for EPP. MT-II itself remains research chemical. Significant tachyphylaxis with continued use.

Safety profile

Concerning AE profile: spontaneous erections, severe nausea, blood pressure changes, melanoma risk concerns from rapid mole growth. Several deaths reported with contaminated supply.