Melanotan II
Melanotan II (melanocortin receptor agonist)
Also known as: MT-II
An unapproved melanocortin agonist studied for skin pigmentation and libido, with notable safety concerns.
Overview
Melanotan II is a synthetic melanocortin agonist studied for tanning and sexual function. It is not approved anywhere and has been repeatedly flagged by regulators. Reported effects include darkened pigmentation, nausea, and changes in moles, and unregulated products carry real safety concerns.
Mechanism of action
Broadly agonizes melanocortin receptors, stimulating melanogenesis (MC1R) and central pathways affecting appetite and sexual function (MC4R).
Key studies & citations
- Human1996
Evaluation of melanotan-II, a superpotent cyclic melanotropic peptide in a pilot phase-I clinical study
Three male volunteers dosed subcutaneously for two weeks: increased pigmentation, mild nausea at most doses, somnolence and fatigue at 0.03 mg/kg, and spontaneous penile erections lasting 1 to 5 hours after dosing.
Life Sciences - Human1998
Synthetic melanotropic peptide initiates erections in men with psychogenic erectile dysfunction: double-blind, placebo controlled crossover study
10 men with psychogenic erectile dysfunction: Melanotan-II produced clinically apparent erections in 8 of 10, with nausea, stretching and yawning more frequent than placebo.
Journal of Urology - Human2009
Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone-induced eruptive nevi
Case report of a man with prior melanoma who developed crops of new atypical nevi while self-injecting synthetic alpha-MSH; the authors warn that such peptides can drive proliferation of neoplastic melanocytes in predisposed people.
Archives of Dermatology
Frequently asked questions
Is Melanotan II legal or safe?
It is not approved in major markets and regulators have warned against it. Reported risks include nausea, blood pressure changes, and changes to moles.