Melanotan II

A synthetic analog of the body's own hormone alpha-MSH, studied in early clinical trials on pigmentation and sexual function.

Melanotan II is a synthetic, cyclic seven-amino-acid peptide that binds several melanocortin receptors in the body. It was developed in the 1980s at the University of Arizona and is considerably more potent than its natural counterpart, alpha-MSH. Areas of study include a role in skin pigmentation as well as sexual desire and arousal.

Facts

• CAS number: 121062-08-6
• Molecular weight: 1024.2 g/mol
• Amino acids: 7
• Purity specification: ≥ 99 % (HPLC, commercial standard)

Evidence

• A phase 1 pilot study in three male volunteers described marked skin pigmentation without UV exposure after repeated subcutaneous injections, accompanied by nausea, flushing, and spontaneous erections as the most common adverse effects. Dorr et al. 1996, Life Sciences, PMID 8637402
• A double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study in men with psychogenic erectile dysfunction described an erection in 8 of 10 participants following melanotan II injection, with significantly longer rigidity than under placebo. Hadley et al. 1998, PMID 9679884

Frequently asked questions

Is melanotan II approved?
No, melanotan II itself is not approved in the EU or the United States. It is sold only as a research chemical, while three related compounds are approved for other indications.

Does melanotan II only work with sunlight?
No. According to studies, pigment formation occurs independently of UV exposure. UV light can further enhance the effect but is not required for it.

What side effects have studies described?
Most commonly nausea and facial flushing. Less often, increases in blood pressure, a prolonged erection as a medical emergency, and changes in moles have been described.

Documented prices

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