VIP Peptides · Research Compound
Melanotan II Research Profile
Melanotan II is a synthetic cyclic peptide related to alpha-melanocyte-
stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Research has examined its activity at
melanocortin receptors and its effects on pigmentation and other
physiological pathways.
Heptapeptide structure
Related peptide
Receptors studied
Product classification
Product Information
About Melanotan II
Melanotan II (MT-II) is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of
α-MSH. It was developed as a potential sunless-tanning compound and
is described as activating multiple melanocortin receptors,
including MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R.
MC1R activity is associated with pigment-related pathways.
MC3R and MC4R activity has also been studied in relation to central
appetite and sexual-function pathways. These research areas do not
establish safe or effective consumer uses.
Melanotan II is distinct from related compounds such as afamelanotide
and bremelanotide. Findings or regulatory status for one compound
should not be assumed to apply to another.
Research Profile
| Product | Melanotan II (MT-II) |
|---|---|
| Structure | Synthetic cyclic heptapeptide |
| Related molecule | α-Melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) |
| Receptors studied | MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R |
| Research areas | Pigmentation and melanocortin signaling |
| Product form / quantity | Confirm against the product label |
Research Areas
What Research Has Examined
Pigmentation Pathways
Research has examined MC1R-related signaling and melanin production.
Pigment changes do not provide reliable protection from UV exposure
and do not replace sunscreen or other sun-protection measures.
Sexual-Function Research
Early studies have examined central melanocortin pathways and
sexual-function effects. The related compound bremelanotide
(PT-141) is a separate molecule; evidence about it should not be
treated as evidence for Melanotan II.
Appetite-Related Pathways
MC3R and MC4R signaling has been studied in relation to appetite
regulation. Findings from early research do not establish a
weight-management treatment or predictable effect in people.
Evidence Limitations
Human data are limited and largely come from small early studies.
Large controlled trials and long-term safety data for cosmetic
tanning use are lacking. Changes in moles or freckles require
medical attention.
Evidence Overview
What the Evidence Can and Cannot Show
Early research has examined pigmentation, sexual-function pathways,
and appetite-related signaling. These findings are limited and do not
establish Melanotan II as a safe or effective cosmetic or medical
treatment.
Pigment changes should not be considered photoprotection. Melanotan II
does not replace sunscreen, shade, or protective clothing, and
increased pigmentation does not remove UV-related skin risks.
Effects on moles and other pigmented lesions have been reported.
Existing or changing skin lesions should be assessed by a qualified
healthcare professional.
Safety & Regulatory Status
Important Safety Information
Reported side effects include nausea, facial flushing, fatigue or
drowsiness, headache, appetite changes, spontaneous erections, and
injection-site reactions. Darkening of existing moles and freckles or
appearance of new pigmented spots has also been reported.
Long-term safety is not established. Changes in pigmented lesions can
make skin monitoring more difficult. Health authorities have also
reported serious concerns associated with unapproved melanotan
products.
Melanotan II is not FDA-approved for tanning or any other indication
in the United States. Products sold online as research chemicals may
vary in identity, purity, and quality.
consumption, self-administration, diagnosis, treatment, cure, mitigation,
or prevention of disease.
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