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Melanotan I

FDA: FDA-approved

Melanotan I is a synthetic analog of alpha-MSH that stimulates melanin production for sunless tanning and potential photoprotection. Marketed pharmaceutically as afamelanotide, it is the more selective and safer cousin of Melanotan-II. Synthetic analog of alpha-MSH that stimulates melanin production by binding to melanocortin-1 receptors (MC1R) in skin cells. Enhances tanning response and may reduce UV-induced skin damage through increased melanin. More selective for MC1R than Melanotan-II, which also activates MC3R/MC4R (sexual arousal pathways). - Sunless tanning and skin pigmentation - Potential photoprotection against UV damage - Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) treatment - Reduced need for UV exposure to achieve tan

This content is for educational and research purposes only. VialBase does not provide medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before using any peptide.

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Research summary

Study Type Year Key Finding
Recommended Tool Compounds for the Melanocortin Receptor (MCR) G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs) Pharmacology review 2024 Comprehensive characterization of melanocortin receptor subtypes MC1R-MC5R
Melanotan II nasal spray: a possible risk factor for oral mucosal malignant melanoma? Case report 2025 22-year-old female developed oral mucosal malignant melanoma after Melanotan II nasal spray use
Changes in Oral Mucosa Associated with Melanotan II Injections: A Case Report Case report 2026 Patient self-administered Melanotan II injections for 64 days for tanning
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Sourcing

Current prices

Updated today

10mg

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What bloodwork do I need?

Reference ranges are general guidelines. Consult your physician for interpretation.

PRE-CYCLE
  • CMP
  • CBC
  • Dermatologic exam (mole check)
DURING CYCLE
  • Visual mole monitoring
POST-CYCLE
  • CMP
  • Dermatologic exam
Safety & Regulatory Status
FDA STATUS FDA-approved

Regulatory status for Melanotan I may change. Verify current status with your jurisdiction before use. This is not legal or medical advice.

References

  1. Weirath NA, Haskell-Luevano C. Recommended Tool Compounds for the Melanocortin Receptor (MCR) G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs). ACS Pharmacology & Translational Science (2024). PMID: 39296259
  2. Yassin Alsabbagh A, Bhujel N, Singh RP. Melanotan II nasal spray: a possible risk factor for oral mucosal malignant melanoma?. International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (2025). PMID: 40210573
  3. Bonchev A. Changes in Oral Mucosa Associated with Melanotan II Injections: A Case Report. Life (Basel) (2026). PMID: 41752902