85%
Erectile Response
17/20 vs 3/20 placebo
⚠️ FOR RESEARCH PURPOSES ONLY — This compound is not FDA approved. All data presented is from clinical trials for educational reference.

Tanning Peptide
A cyclic peptide analog of α-MSH that binds melanocortin receptors, studied for melanogenesis and related pathways in research settings. Premium Research Peptide.
85%
Erectile Response
17/20 vs 3/20 placebo
40min
Rigidity Duration
Mean tip rigidity >80%
No UVneeded
Tanning Effect
UV-independent pigmentation
MC1Reffective
Non-Tanner Friendly
Works despite genetic variants
↓appetite
Appetite Suppression
MC4R-mediated effect
Binds to melanocortin-1 receptors on melanocytes, stimulating eumelanin synthesis through cAMP-PKA signaling. This increases skin pigmentation even in individuals with MC1R variant alleles who typically cannot tan.
Activates melanocortin-4 receptors in the central nervous system, particularly the hypothalamus and spinal cord, triggering pro-erectile signaling pathways independent of NO/cGMP mechanisms.
Central melanocortin receptor activation modulates energy homeostasis, typically producing appetite suppression and increased metabolic rate through hypothalamic signaling.
Dual mechanism: Both peripheral pigmentation and central nervous system effects
Randomized controlled tanning study
Erectile Response Rate (vs 15% Placebo)
Key finding: Melanotan II induced tanning even in subjects with MC1R variant alleles who typically cannot tan from UV exposure alone
Results from randomized controlled trials
Documented effects from clinical studies
UV-independent tanning
SourceIn study populations
SourceCommon observation
SourceEnhanced UV defense
SourceStimulates eumelanin production through MC1R activation on melanocytes
Central nervous system mediated through MC4R activation
Central MC3R/MC4R modulation of energy homeostasis
Note: Appetite suppression is a commonly reported effect in clinical studies
Dosing from clinical studies
Melanotan II has been studied via subcutaneous injection in Phase 1 clinical trials. Dosing protocols vary between pigmentation and sexual function studies.
Based on Barnetson 2006 RCT
0.010-0.025 mg/kg
Once daily SubQ
As needed
Maintenance dosing
Subcutaneous injection preferred
Effects accumulate over days
Pigmentation persists weeks after cessation
Based on Wessells 1998 study
0.025 mg/kg
SubQ injection as needed
Onset: 30-60 minutes
Duration: 4-6 hours pro-erectile window
Lower doses may reduce side effects
Peak effects at 2-4 hours
Short half-life but cumulative pigmentation effects
Cyclic structure provides stability vs linear α-MSH
Reported effects from clinical studies
Melanotan II produces predictable side effects related to melanocortin receptor activation. Most effects are dose-dependent and transient.
Increased pigmentation of existing nevi (moles) and freckles
Side effects typically diminish with continued use
Nausea most common initial side effect
Mole/nevus changes requiring monitoring
Priapism (prolonged erection) - seek medical attention
Potential cardiovascular effects at high doses
Unregulated product quality concerns
Chemical and structural properties
Synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of α-MSH
Non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist
Handling and storage requirements
Common questions about Melanotan II
Melanotan II activates MC1R receptors on melanocytes, triggering the same intracellular signaling cascade (cAMP-PKA pathway) that UV light activates. This stimulates eumelanin synthesis directly, bypassing the need for UV-induced DNA damage that normally initiates the tanning response. The 2006 randomized controlled trial showed this works even in individuals with MC1R genetic variants who typically cannot tan from UV exposure.
Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a linear 13-amino acid peptide that primarily targets MC1R for pigmentation with minimal sexual side effects. Melanotan II is a cyclic 7-amino acid peptide with high affinity for both MC1R (pigmentation) and MC4R (sexual function), producing both tanning and pro-erectile effects. Melanotan I has been developed as a prescription drug (Scenesse) for erythropoietic protoporphyria, while MT-II remains a research compound.
Acute effects (nausea, flushing, appetite suppression) appear within 1-2 hours of injection. Erectile effects begin within 30-60 minutes and may last 4-6 hours. Pigmentation effects are cumulative and typically become noticeable after 5-7 days of regular dosing, with full effects developing over 2-3 weeks. Pigmentation persists for weeks to months after discontinuation.
PT-141 (bremelanotide) was developed from Melanotan II by modifying the structure to reduce pigmentation effects while preserving sexual function. PT-141 primarily targets MC4R with minimal MC1R activity, so it doesn't cause tanning. PT-141 received FDA approval in 2019 for hypoactive sexual desire disorder in women, making it the only melanocortin peptide approved for sexual dysfunction.
Key monitoring includes: regular dermatological examination for mole changes (darkening, new moles, irregular borders), blood pressure monitoring, assessment of nausea and tolerance, and for males, monitoring for priapism. Any concerning mole changes should prompt immediate dermatological evaluation. Erections lasting more than 4 hours require medical attention.
Nausea is caused by central MC4R activation in areas of the brain that regulate appetite and nausea (area postrema, nucleus tractus solitarius). This is the same mechanism responsible for appetite suppression. The effect is dose-dependent and typically diminishes with continued use as tolerance develops. Taking the injection before bed or starting with lower doses can help minimize this side effect.
Peer-reviewed research
Barnetson RS, et al.
Wessells H, et al.
Not for human consumption. This product is sold exclusively for research and educational purposes. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
All clinical trial data and research findings presented on this page are sourced from peer-reviewed journals and official publications. They are provided for educational reference only and should not be interpreted as medical advice or product claims.
By purchasing this product, you confirm that you are a qualified researcher and will use it in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations.
Dorr RT, et al.