Melanotan II
A synthetic cyclic analogue of alpha-MSH studied for melanogenesis stimulation, sexual function, and appetite regulation through melanocortin receptor activation.
Mechanism of Action
Melanotan II is a non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist (MC1R-MC5R). MC1R activation in melanocytes stimulates eumelanin production (tanning). MC4R activation in the hypothalamus reduces appetite and modulates sexual arousal pathways. MC3R activation affects energy homeostasis and inflammation. The cyclic structure provides greater receptor binding affinity and enzymatic stability than linear alpha-MSH.
Key Published Studies
Subcutaneous Administration of Melanotan II to Humans
Dorr RT, Lines R, Levine N, et al. — Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics (1996)
Subcutaneous melanotan II produced significant increases in skin pigmentation (tanning) without UV exposure, with dose-dependent nausea as the primary side effect.
Melanotan II: An Investigation of Brain Sites Mediating Sexual Function
Martin WJ, McGowan E, Cashen DE, et al. — Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences (2003)
Melanotan II activated neural pathways in the paraventricular nucleus and medial preoptic area, confirming central melanocortin-mediated sexual arousal mechanisms.
Dosage Range
Research doses: 0.025 mg/kg subcutaneous. Loading protocols in studies used 0.25-0.5 mg/day.
Reconstitution
Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water. For a 10 mg vial, add 2 mL BAC water for 5 mg/mL.
Storage
Store lyophilized at -20C. Reconstituted at 2-8C, use within 28 days. Protect from light.
Half-Life
Approximately 33 minutes. Melanogenesis effects persist for weeks due to slow melanin turnover.
Related Products
For Research Use Only. The information on this page is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. All products sold by PrestigePeptides are strictly for laboratory research use and are not intended for human or veterinary consumption.
Ready to start your research?