Melanocortin
Melanotan II
Melanotan II is a cyclic synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone that non-selectively activates multiple melanocortin receptors (MC1R through MC5R). Its broad receptor profile produces tanning effects via MC1R, sexual arousal via MC3R/MC4R, and appetite suppression via MC4R. It served as the parent compound from which the more selective PT-141 (bremelanotide) was derived.
Quick Facts
Also known asMT-II, Melanotan 2
CategoryMelanocortin
Half-life1 hour
Routessubcutaneous, topical, intranasal
Common vial sizes10mg
Molecular weight1024.18 Da
Chain length7 amino acids
SequenceAc-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH2
FDA statusNot approved
Storage2-8°C (refrigerated). Reconstituted: 30 days.
Dosing Protocols
| Goal | Dose | Frequency | Route | Cycle | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Loading (Tanning) | 250 mcg | 1x/day | subcutaneous | 8 weeks | 0.25 mg daily SubQ to assess tolerance. 4-8 weeks. |
| Tanning Maintenance | 750 mcg | 2-3x/week | subcutaneous | 8 weeks | 0.5-1 mg 2-3x weekly SubQ. |
| Sexual Enhancement | 750 mcg | as needed | subcutaneous | Continuous | 0.5-1 mg SubQ as needed. |
| Minimal Side Effects Protocol | 175 mcg | every other day | subcutaneous | Continuous | 0.1-0.25 mg every other day SubQ for sensitive individuals. |
| Photoprotection | 500 mcg | 2x/week | subcutaneous | Continuous | 0.5 mg 2x weekly SubQ. |
Protocols shown are for informational purposes only. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any peptide protocol.
Track Your Melanotan II Protocol
Log doses, manage vial inventory, set injection reminders, and visualize blood concentration levels.
Start Tracking — FreeCommon Questions
How do I reconstitute Melanotan II?
Add bacteriostatic water to your Melanotan II vial (common sizes: 10mg). The amount of BAC water depends on your desired concentration. Use our reconstitution calculator for exact measurements.
What is the typical dose of Melanotan II?
A common dose for Melanotan II is 250 mcg 1x/day via subcutaneous. 0.25 mg daily SubQ to assess tolerance. 4-8 weeks.
What is the half-life of Melanotan II?
The half-life of Melanotan II is approximately 1 hour. This determines how long the peptide remains active in your body and influences dosing frequency.
How should I store Melanotan II?
Store Melanotan II at 2-8°C (refrigerated). Not approved for human use. Cyclic peptide structure provides somewhat greater stability than linear analogs. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water. Once reconstituted, use within 30 days.
Is Melanotan II FDA approved?
Melanotan II is not FDA approved and is available for research purposes only. It has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety or efficacy in humans.
References
- Cardiovascular Effects Study (2018) (article)
- Photoprotection in Fair-Skinned Individuals (2015) (article)
- Female Sexual Arousal Disorder Trial - 73% arousal response (2004) (article)
- Appetite and Food Intake Study - 15% caloric reduction (2001) (article)
- Phase II Erectile Dysfunction Trial - 80% response rate (2000) (article)
- Melanogenesis and UV Protection Study - increased melanin density (1999) (article)