Peptide Reference
Melanotan II
Melanotan II
A synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) that induces melanogenesis and has aphrodisiac effects. Originally developed as a sunless tanning agent, it gained popularity for sexual enhancement.
Status
research
Category
sexual health
Typical cost
$40-80/vial (10mg)
Mechanism
Activates melanocortin receptors (MC1R for tanning, MC4R for sexual arousal). Stimulates melanin production in skin cells and enhances sexual arousal through central nervous system effects. Effects on sexual function appear independent of melanogenesis.
Potential benefits
- Enhanced libido
- Improved erectile function
- Sunless tanning
- Reduced appetite
- Rapid tanning
- Sexual arousal
- Appetite suppression
- Long-lasting tan
Reported side effects
- Nausea
- Facial flushing
- Yawning
- Darkening of moles/freckles
- Melanoma risk concerns
- Spontaneous erections
- Injection site reactions
- Darkening of moles
- New moles
Common dosing references
subcutaneous
0.25-1mg · Every 2-3 days
2-4 weeks for loading
subcutaneous
0.25-1mg · Every 2-3 days
2-4 weeks (tanning)
Research notes
Melanotan II sexual arousal effects
2000
Demonstrated enhanced sexual arousal in both men and women in clinical studies
Melanotan II tanning
1996
Dramatic tanning with minimal UV exposure
Melanotan II sexual effects
2004
PT-141 (bremelanotide) developed from these effects
Regulatory and sourcing notes
Not FDA-approved. Unapproved drug. Some countries have banned due to safety concerns. Never approved for any indication.
Research chemical with safety concerns. Potential melanoma risk. Not recommended for cosmetic use.
Find peptide-aware clinics
Use location pages to compare clinics with peptide therapy signals and verify clinical oversight before treatment.
Related peptides