Melanotan II (10mg)
Melanotan II is a synthetic analog of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone studied for its ability to increase skin pigmentation and noted for causing erectile activity as a side effect. Early human clinical trials identified effective daily doses in the 1–2 mg range for tanning, with conservative protocols starting lower to minimize side effects like nausea and flushing. This protocol presents a once-daily subcutaneous titration approach.
Reviewed by the AllPeptides.eu Editorial Team·Last reviewed: 2026-06-16
Educational information. Not medical advice, and no efficacy claim is implied. Regulatory approval is not a use recommendation by AllPeptides.eu.
⚠️ For informational/educational purposes only. Not medical advice. We do not sell any products. Self-treatment carries serious risks — consult a healthcare professional. Disclaimer
How It Works
Melanotan II is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone that binds to melanocortin receptors, particularly MC1R and MC4R. Activation of MC1R in melanocytes stimulates melanin production and distribution, resulting in increased skin pigmentation even without UV exposure. Early Phase I human studies identified 0.025 mg/kg daily (approximately 1.5–2 mg for an average adult) as a suitable dose, with measurable tanning after just five low doses over two weeks. Subcutaneous administration allows for steady activation of melanocortin receptors, with cumulative effects over the course of daily injections.
Quick Start
- Reconstitution: Add 3.0 mL bacteriostatic water (or 0.6% acetic acid for long-term stability) → 3.33 mg/mL concentration.
- Typical Daily Range: 250–1000 mcg once daily (gradual titration over 8–12 weeks).
- Storage: Lyophilized: freezer −20 °C; post-reconstitution, refrigerator 2–8 °C; use within 1–2 weeks.
Typical / Gradual Titration (3 mL = 3.33 mg/mL)
Route: Subcutaneous | Frequency: Once daily
| Week | Dose | Units (per injection) |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | 250 mcg (0.25 mg) | 7.5 Units (0.07 mL) |
| Week 2 | 500 mcg (0.5 mg) | 15 Units (0.15 mL) |
| Week 3 | 750 mcg (0.75 mg) | 22.5 Units (0.22 mL) |
| Weeks 4–8 | 1000 mcg (1 mg) | 30 Units (0.30 mL) |
| Maintenance (after Wk 8) | 500–1000 mcg (1–2× weekly) | 15–30 Units (0.15–0.30 mL) |
Studies report administration once daily subcutaneously during the 8-week loading phase, followed by a transition to 1–2 administrations weekly for pigmentation maintenance.
Related compounds
Reconstitution Steps
- Draw up 3.0 mL bacteriostatic water (BAC water). Alternatively, 0.6% acetic acid can be used for improved long-term stability.
- Inject slowly down the side of the vial; avoid foaming.
- Gently swirl/rotate until dissolved (do not shake).
- Date and refrigerate at 2–8 °C, protecting from light.
Protocol Overview
- Objective: Increase skin pigmentation (tanning) via melanocortin receptor activation.
- Schedule: Daily subcutaneous injections for 6–8 weeks (loading phase), then 1–2× weekly maintenance.
- Storage: Lyophilized frozen at −20 °C; reconstituted refrigerated; use within 1–2 weeks.
Dosing Protocol
- Initiation: 200–250 mcg daily; increase by 100–250 mcg every 1–2 weeks.
- Target: 500–1000 mcg daily by Wk 4–8 (studied effective range 1–2 mg/day).
- Frequency: Once daily subcutaneously during the loading phase.
- Cycle Duration: 6–8 weeks for initial tanning, then maintenance doses.
- Maintenance: 500–1000 mcg 1–2× weekly to maintain pigmentation.
- Break between cycles: After the loading phase (6–8 weeks), you can either switch to low-dose maintenance or take a washout period of 8–12 weeks. Melanin remains active for months post-cycle—a long washout prevents hyperpigmentation.
Washout & Cycle Restart
When can I restart?
After the loading phase (6–8 weeks), you can either switch to low-dose maintenance or take a washout period of 8–12 weeks. Melanin remains active for months post-cycle—a long washout prevents hyperpigmentation.
Minimum wait period: 8 weeks
Storage Instructions
- Lyophilized: Store at −20 °C in dry, dark conditions.
- Reconstituted: Refrigerate at 2–8 °C; use within 1–2 weeks with bacteriostatic water.
- Avoid Freeze-Thaw: Do not re-freeze reconstituted solution.
- Let vials reach room temperature before opening.
Important Notes
- Safety Warning: Do not exceed 2 mg daily; case reports of toxicity and rhabdomyolysis at overdoses (6 mg).
Potential Benefits & Side Effects
Potential Benefits:
- Increases skin pigmentation (tanning) without requiring UV exposure.
- Tanning effects are observed after 5–10 daily injections.
- May cause spontaneous erections in men (MC4R activation).
- Maintenance doses (1–2× weekly) can maintain pigmentation.
Potential Side Effects:
- Nausea (dose-dependent; more common at higher doses).
- Facial flushing and increased skin warmth.
- Decreased appetite and mild fatigue.
- Spontaneous erections or increased libido in men.
- Injection site reactions (redness, slight stinging).
- Serious Risks: Not approved; dose-limiting toxicity at 6 mg; changes in moles; cardiovascular effects at high doses.
⚠️ Serious Warnings & Long-Term Risks
The following warnings are based on published literature, FDA labels, and post-marketing surveillance. They do not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional.
Mole changes & melanoma
Reports of atypical mole development and melanoma in users. EMA/TGA rejected its use as unsafe. MC1R activation may mask early signs of melanoma.
📄 Br J Dermatol 2015; TGA Safety AdvisoryHypertension & cardiovascular events
Reports of transient hypertension and rare cardiovascular events in Melanotan II users.
📄 Clin Toxicol 2013References
- PubMed — Dorr RT et al. (1996) — Phase I clinical study of melanotan-II: dose and safety evaluation
View Source - International Peptide Society — Melanotan II monograph: dosing and titration protocols
View Source - DermNet NZ — Dermatology clinical guidance: side effects and maintenance doses
View Source - PubMed — Nelson ME et al. (2012) — Case report: toxicity and rhabdomyolysis from Melanotan II
View Source - RxList — Melanotan-II — Pharmacology and clinical effects of melanotan-II
View Source
Recommended Supplements
Maca Root Extract
Ashwagandha (KSM-66)
External Sources & Regulatory Status
Regulatory Approvals
Scenesse® (afamelanotide) · EPP (Erythropoietic protoporphyria) (2014)
Scenesse® (afamelanotide) · EPP (2014)
Scenesse® (afamelanotide) · EPP (2019)
Afamelanotide (analogue) approved — Melanotan II research-only
Educational information. Not medical advice, and no efficacy claim is implied. Regulatory approval is not a use recommendation by AllPeptides.eu.
Continue Your Research
Explore tools and guides related to this protocol.
Important Disclaimer
The content of this website is provided exclusively for informational and educational purposes within the context of research literature.
Read the full Disclaimer →