Melanotan II
Melanocortin agonist for tanning, libido, and appetite research.
Key Benefits
stimulates UV-independent skin darkening via MC1R activation
MC3R/MC4R activation enhances arousal (parent of PT-141)
MC4R agonism reduces food intake
research tool for multiple receptor systems
Active Signaling Pathway
Investigated Pathways
Proposed Mechanism
MT-II activates MC1R on melanocytes to stimulate melanin production (tanning), MC3R/MC4R in the hypothalamus for sexual arousal and appetite suppression, and MC5R for exocrine gland regulation. Its broad melanocortin receptor activity produces multiple simultaneous effects.
Research Highlights
- Shown to produce significant skin darkening without UV exposure in clinical trials
- Demonstrated erectile function improvement in men with psychogenic ED
- Appetite suppression via MC4R activation — potential obesity research application
- Parent compound of PT-141 (bremelanotide) — FDA-approved derivative
Evidence is primarily from in vitro cell studies and animal models. Human data is limited or absent.
For research use only — not for human consumption. No treatment claims.
Full Research Hub →How long will one vial last?
Based on standard research protocols, here's exactly what to expect from a single 10mg vial — and when to plan your next order.
Vial supply estimate is based on standard research protocol volumes. Actual duration will vary based on your specific protocol design.
Scientific Background
Mechanism of Action
MT-II activates MC1R on melanocytes to stimulate melanin production (tanning), MC3R/MC4R in the hypothalamus for sexual arousal and appetite suppression, and MC5R for exocrine gland regulation. Its broad melanocortin receptor activity produces multiple simultaneous effects.
Clinical Context
Melanotan II was developed at the University of Arizona as a potential photoprotective agent. Its broad melanocortin activity makes it a versatile research tool for studying multiple physiological systems.
Research Highlights
- Shown to produce significant skin darkening without UV exposure in clinical trials
- Demonstrated erectile function improvement in men with psychogenic ED
- Appetite suppression via MC4R activation — potential obesity research application
- Parent compound of PT-141 (bremelanotide) — FDA-approved derivative
Storage & Reconstitution
Store at -20°C. Reconstitute with 2 mL bacteriostatic water → 5 mg/mL. Stable 4 weeks at 2–8°C. Protect from light.
Key Studies
Melanotan II: a potent melanotropin for photoprotection
Dorr RT et al.
Melanotan II produced significant skin darkening without UV exposure in clinical trials via MC1R activation.
PubMed →Melanotan II for erectile dysfunction
Wessells H et al.
Melanotan II produced penile erections in men with psychogenic erectile dysfunction via central melanocortin receptor activation.
PubMed →Sexual effects of Melanotan II
King SH et al.
Melanotan II demonstrated sexual arousal effects in both males and females via MC3R/MC4R activation.
PubMed →Pharmacokinetics
Bioavailability indicates how much of the compound reaches systemic circulation. Peak plasma is when blood levels are highest. Half-life determines dosing frequency — compounds with short half-lives require more frequent dosing to maintain therapeutic levels.
The volume of distribution reflects how widely the compound distributes into tissues. A higher Vd means the compound concentrates in tissues rather than staying in plasma.
Receptor Binding Profile
Stimulates melanin production in melanocytes for UV-independent skin darkening
Energy homeostasis and secondary sexual function effects
Sexual arousal, appetite suppression via hypothalamic pathways
Exocrine gland regulation
Side Effects & Adverse Events
- Nausea (50%)
- Flushing
- Spontaneous erections (males)
- Facial flushing
- Fatigue
- Yawning
- Stretching
- Hyperpigmentation of existing moles (monitor for changes)
- Potential melanoma risk with UV exposure
Contraindications & Interactions
Synergistic Compounds
PT-141 is the more selective derivative of Melanotan II for sexual function — use PT-141 for sexual function, Melanotan II when tanning is also desired.
Use Melanotan II 0.5 mg SubQ for tanning protocols; switch to PT-141 1 mg as-needed for sexual function.
View Compound →Transparent Global Sourcing
Manufactured
Sourced through our manufacturing partner in China
Independent Testing
Analytical reports available from Janoshik Analytical
Batch Verification
Batch-specific COAs with online verification via janoshik.com
US Fulfillment
Orders fulfilled from the United States