Melanotan II, often referred to as MT-2, is a synthetic compound designed to mimic a naturally occurring hormone. This peptide is an analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), which is produced in the pituitary gland. It was initially developed at the University of Arizona during the 1990s for stimulating melanin production.
Mechanism of Action
Melanotan II exerts its effects by acting as a non-selective agonist of melanocortin receptors (MCRs). These receptors play roles in skin pigmentation, energy balance, and sexual function. Melanotan II binds to several subtypes, including MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R.
The activation of MC1R, found on melanocytes, triggers melanin production, the pigment responsible for skin color. Binding to MC3R and MC4R influences appetite regulation and sexual function. This interaction with multiple receptor types explains its diverse effects.
Reported Effects on the Body
The most commonly observed outcome of Melanotan II use is darker skin tone. This occurs because the peptide stimulates melanocytes to produce more melanin, particularly eumelanin, which provides greater protection from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This process can result in a tan with less direct UV exposure.
Beyond its skin-darkening properties, users frequently report other effects. Many individuals experience an increase in libido and enhanced sexual function, including spontaneous erections in males. Appetite suppression is also a widely noted effect.
Administration and Dosing Protocols
Melanotan II is typically supplied as a lyophilized powder. Before use, this powder must be reconstituted with bacteriostatic water to create an injectable solution. Subcutaneous injection, usually into the fatty layer beneath the skin, is the preferred method.
Users often follow a “loading phase” with more frequent doses (0.25 mg to 0.5 mg daily or every other day) to achieve desired pigmentation. Following this, a “maintenance phase” involves less frequent doses (0.5 mg to 1 mg) to sustain the tanned appearance.
Associated Side Effects and Health Concerns
Users of Melanotan II frequently report common, immediate side effects. These can include facial flushing, a temporary redness or warmth of the skin, and gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and vomiting. Some individuals also experience a reduced appetite, headaches, and in males, spontaneous erections that may be accompanied by yawning and stretching fits.
More serious health concerns are also associated with Melanotan II use. The peptide can cause the development of new moles and the darkening or changing of existing freckles and moles, which can complicate the monitoring of potentially malignant skin changes. There is a lack of comprehensive long-term safety data for Melanotan II, and some reports have linked its use to conditions like kidney dysfunction, rhabdomyolysis (muscle cell breakdown), and even melanoma, particularly when combined with sunbed use. The unregulated nature of the product means consumers face unknown risks regarding product purity, correct dosage, and potential contamination.
Regulatory and Legal Status
Melanotan II is not approved by major regulatory agencies, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), for any medical or cosmetic application. Its development as a potential medicine was halted years ago due to various concerns.
Consequently, the sale of Melanotan II is largely unregulated, and it is frequently marketed online as a “research chemical” to bypass legal restrictions. This unregulated market poses substantial risks to consumers, as products may lack quality control, contain incorrect dosages, or be contaminated with other substances. Warnings against its use have been issued by health authorities in numerous countries, emphasizing the dangers associated with unapproved and untested products.