Melanotan II (5mg)
Melanotan II is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of α-MSH, studied as a melanogenesis stimulant (tanning without UV) via MC1R activation. 5mg vial — reconstitute with 2.5 mL bacteriostatic water for 2 mg/mL (each 1 unit ≈ 20 mcg).
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 cyclic heptapeptide analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone that binds to melanocortin receptors MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R. MC1R activation in melanocytes stimulates eumelanin production and distribution, increasing skin pigmentation even without UV exposure. Early Phase I human studies (Dorr 1996) established 0.025 mg/kg daily as a suitable dose range. MC4R activation explains sexual side effects (spontaneous erections, increased libido).
Quick Start
- Reconstitution: 2.5 mL bacteriostatic water → 2 mg/mL.
- Typical Range: 250–1000 mcg daily (gradual titration).
- Storage: Lyophilized: −20 °C; reconstituted: 2–8 °C for 1–2 weeks.
Gradual Titration (2.5 mL = 2 mg/mL)
Route: Subcutaneous | Frequency: Once daily
| Week | Dose | Units (per injection) |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | 250 mcg | 12.5 Units (0.13 mL) |
| Week 2 | 500 mcg | 25 Units (0.25 mL) |
| Week 3 | 750 mcg | 37.5 Units (0.38 mL) |
| Weeks 4–8 | 1000 mcg | 50 Units (0.50 mL) |
| Maintenance | 500–1000 mcg (1–2×/wk) | 25–50 Units (0.25–0.50 mL) |
Studies report administration once daily subcutaneously during the 6–8 week loading phase. Maintenance: 1–2 injections/week.
Related compounds
Reconstitution Steps
- Draw 2.5 mL bacteriostatic water (or 0.6% acetic acid for enhanced stability).
- Inject slowly into vial wall — avoid foaming.
- Swirl gently until fully dissolved — do not shake.
- Label vial with date and refrigerate at 2–8 °C protected from light.
Protocol Overview
- Goal: Increase skin pigmentation (tanning) without UV exposure.
- Schedule: Daily injections 6–8 weeks (loading), then maintenance.
- Storage: Lyophilized −20 °C; reconstituted refrigerated.
Dosing Protocol
- Start: 250 mcg daily; increase by 250 mcg/week.
- Target: 1000 mcg daily by Wk 4–8.
- Maintenance: 500–1000 mcg 1–2×/week after loading.
- Cycle Duration: 6–8 weeks initial tanning.
- Break between cycles: After loading (6–8 weeks), pause 8–12 weeks or low maintenance. Melanin remains active for months.
Washout & Cycle Restart
When can I restart?
After loading (6–8 weeks), pause 8–12 weeks or low maintenance. Melanin remains active for months.
Minimum wait period: 8 weeks
Storage Instructions
- Lyophilized: −20 °C, dry, dark.
- Reconstituted: Refrigerator 2–8 °C, use within 1–2 weeks.
- Do not refreeze reconstituted solution.
- Allow vials to reach room temperature before opening.
Important Notes
- Warning: Do not exceed 2 mg daily — rhabdomyolysis reports at overdose.
- Dermatologist monitoring of moles is mandatory.
Potential Benefits & Side Effects
Potential Benefits:
- Increases skin pigmentation without UV requirement.
- Results seen after 5–10 daily injections.
- Potential effect on libido/erectile function via MC4R.
- Maintenance doses 1–2×/week sustain pigmentation.
Potential Side Effects:
- Nausea (dose-dependent, more common initially).
- Facial flushing, increased skin warmth.
- Decreased appetite, mild fatigue.
- Spontaneous erections in males.
- Injection site reactions.
- Serious Risks: Unapproved; toxicity/rhabdomyolysis at >6 mg; mole changes; 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
- Dorr RT et al. (1996) — Phase I — Clinical study of melanotan-II: dosing and safety assessment
View Source - International Peptide Society — Melanotan II monograph: dosing & titration protocols
View Source - DermNet NZ — Dermatology clinical guidance: adverse effects
View Source - Nelson ME et al. (2012) — Case report: MT-II toxicity and rhabdomyolysis
View Source - RxList — Melanotan-II — Pharmacology and clinical effects
View Source
Recommended Supplements
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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.
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