Melanotan-I

Overview

What is Melanotan-I?

Melanotan I, known as afamelanotide, is a selective MC1R agonist. As Scenesse it is approved for increasing light tolerance in adults with erythropoietic protoporphyria, a rare photosensitivity disorder, and is given as a subcutaneous implant by a clinician.

• Melanin Production
• Photoprotection
• Tanning Research

What the research reports

Reported benefits of Melanotan-I

Outcomes described across the published Melanotan-I literature and ongoing study. Read each as research context, not a promised result.

1. 01

   Selective MC1R agonist use

   Targets the MC1R receptor for melanogenesis without the sexual and appetite effects associated with the less selective Melanotan II. Reported in research settings.

2. 02

   Approved photoprotection use

   Scenesse is approved to increase light tolerance in adults with erythropoietic protoporphyria, a rare genetic disorder causing severe phototoxic reactions to daylight.

3. 03

   Eumelanin increase findings

   A phase 1 case series reported a 49 to 98 percent increase in skin eumelanin content after dosing over a two week period. Reported in research settings.

4. 04

   Complete bioavailability data

   A 1997 pharmacokinetic study reported complete subcutaneous bioavailability with tanning effects persisting three weeks after treatment. Reported in research settings.

5. 05

   Clinician administered format

   The approved implant is placed above the hip every 60 days by a healthcare provider, which builds in medical oversight. Reported in research settings.

Dosage and protocol

Melanotan-I dosage and protocol

The clinical implant delivers 16 mg every 60 days. Research injection protocols report 0.25 to 1 mg daily across 14 to 28 days. Figures describe study protocols, not a personal regimen.

Route

Subcutaneous implant

Example range

16 mg implant

Frequency

Every 60 days

Timing

Implant placed above hip by clinician. UV exposure raises response.

Clinical evidence

Clinical evidence for Melanotan-I

The published record for Melanotan-I, labeled by strength so you can see what is settled and what is emerging.

Interactions

How it pairs with other peptides

Melanotan-2

Both are melanocortin agonists. Combining duplicates the target and adds the broader MT-II side effects.

PT-141 peptide

Also a melanocortin agonist, so combining raises total activity across this receptor family.

Photosensitisers

Any medicine that alters light sensitivity should be reviewed alongside a melanogenic compound.

Isotretinoin

Skin treatments that change pigmentation or healing warrant dermatology input before combining.