PeptideDB

Melanotan I

Von der FDA zugelassen

Melanocortin Receptor Agonist

Synthetic analog of α-MSH that selectively targets MC1 receptors for melanin stimulation. FDA-approved as SCENESSE implant for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP).

Molekulare und Forschungsdaten

Sequenz
α-melanocyte stimulating hormone analog
Molekulargewicht
1646.88 Da
Halbwertszeit
~30 minutes
Primäre Ziele
melanocortin-receptor
Wege (Forschung)
injectable, nasal
Lagerung
Refrigerate reconstituted solution at 2-8°C, use within 4 weeks

Overview

Synthetic analog of α-MSH that selectively targets MC1 receptors for melanin stimulation. FDA-approved as SCENESSE implant for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). Research-grade injectable form enables flexible dosing versus the implant version.

Mechanism of action

Subcutaneous injection delivers peptide directly into systemic circulation. Selectively activates MC1R receptors to stimulate melanin production. Short half-life of approximately 30 minutes necessitates multiple daily dosing for sustained effect.

Key research findings

  • Precise dosing control with rapid tanning onset
  • Flexible home administration unlike implant version
  • Visible tanning within 1-2 weeks with UV exposure
  • Enhanced photoprotection through increased melanin
  • More selective for MC1R than Melanotan II

Research applications

Skin Health

  • Enhanced Tanning Response — Stimulates melanin for deeper, longer-lasting tans with reduced UV requirements
  • Photoprotection — Increased melanin density provides natural UV protection and reduces sunburn
  • Even Pigmentation — Promotes uniform melanin distribution minimizing patchy tanning

Medical Applications

  • Erythropoietic Protoporphyria — FDA-approved indication for SCENESSE implant

Melanotan I Häufig gestellte Fragen

Is Melanotan I more selective than Melanotan II?+

Yes. Melanotan I is more selective for MC1R (melanin production) and less active on MC4R (sexual function, appetite). This means MT-I causes tanning without the strong appetite suppression or sexual side effects of MT-II, making it better if tanning is the only goal.

How fast will I see results from Melanotan I?+

Initial skin darkening appears within 3-7 days with UV exposure. Peak tanning is visible by week 2-4 with consistent low-dose UV tanning. The combination of MT-I plus 50% less UV exposure than normal achieves deep tans much faster than sun exposure alone.

Can I use Melanotan I without any UV exposure?+

Melanotan I stimulates melanin production, so some pigment develops without sun exposure. However, UV exposure significantly enhances the effect—ideally low-dose tanning bed or sun exposure 1-2 hours after injection maximizes the tanning response.

Does Melanotan I cause mole changes like Melanotan II?+

Less commonly than MT-II, but moles and freckles can darken and potentially enlarge with MT-I use. Regular skin monitoring via self-examination is important. The risk appears lower with MT-I than MT-II due to reduced MC3R/MC4R activation.

References

  1. [1]MT-I Photoprotection StudyPubMed
  2. [2]Melanocortin Receptor Binding StudyPubMed
  3. [3]Pharmacokinetics Injectable MT-IPubMed

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