Melanotan-2

Glossary / Research Peptides / Melanotan-2
RESEARCH PEPTIDES · GLOSSARY ENTRY

Melanotan-2 (MT-II)

A synthetic analogue of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone — used in research-peptide markets for tanning and as a precursor to bremelanotide (PT-141) for sexual function.

Why it matters

Melanotan-2 is a melanocortin receptor agonist with affinity at MC1R (skin pigmentation), MC3R, MC4R (sexual function, appetite suppression), and MC5R. The pigmentation effect is the marketed use; the side-effect profile includes nausea, blood pressure changes, and unpredictable mole darkening.

In practice

Research protocols use subcutaneous injection at 0.25–1mg, titrated up. The compound has been banned for sale in several countries and the FDA has issued warning letters about safety concerns.

Common confusion

Melanotan-2 and its safety profile are not equivalent to natural sun exposure-induced tanning. The compound activates a different distribution of melanocortin receptors and the side effects are not theoretical.

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