Melanotan II
Melanotan II (MT-II)
A non-selective melanocortin agonist producing tanning, libido enhancement, and appetite suppression — with a broader and less predictable side effect profile than selective alternatives.
Melanotan II is not approved by the FDA for human use. It is sold strictly for research purposes only and is not intended for human consumption, diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of any disease or condition. Purchase and use is entirely at your own risk.
Sourcing for research purposes?
View at Ascension Peptides →What it is
Melanotan II is a synthetic cyclic analogue of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Unlike PT-141 (which is derived from it) or Melanotan I (which is selective), Melanotan II activates all four melanocortin receptor subtypes (MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R) non-selectively.
This non-selectivity produces a broader range of effects — tanning, libido, appetite suppression — but also a broader and less predictable side effect profile. It is not approved by any regulatory agency.
What research shows
- Strong melanogenesis (skin tanning) via MC1R activation — even without UV exposure
- Significant libido and sexual arousal effects via MC4R
- Appetite suppression and potential weight loss effects
- Spontaneous erections are a well-documented and often unwanted side effect in men
- Nausea, facial flushing, and fatigue are commonly reported
What remains unknown
- Long-term safety profile — concerns around nevus (mole) changes and melanoma risk have been raised
- Cardiovascular safety with chronic use
- Net effect on melanocytic lesions with repeated use
Administration basics
Common use cases
Tanning, libido, appetite suppression. Many users have shifted to more selective alternatives (PT-141, Melanotan I) given the side effect profile.
Half-life
Approximately 1–2 hours.
Administration
Subcutaneous injection. Nasal spray formulations are also available but with variable bioavailability.
Source this compound
Looking for Melanotan II?
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View at Ascension PeptidesResearch Protocols & Common Usage
Doses used in research
- Research studies have used 0.25–1mg per injection
- Community protocols commonly start at 0.25mg to assess tolerance
- Community maintenance protocols report 0.5–1mg as needed for tanning maintenance
Administration routes studied
Typical protocol duration
Community protocols report a loading phase of 2–4 weeks followed by maintenance dosing.
Common stacking protocols
- Melanotan II is generally used standalone given its broad melanocortin receptor activity
Contraindications & combinations to avoid
- Should NOT be combined with PT-141 — overlapping melanocortin receptors; increased side effect risk
- Should NOT be combined with Melanotan I — redundant mechanisms
- History of melanoma or dysplastic nevi — any new or changing moles during use should be evaluated by a dermatologist promptly
- Cardiovascular conditions — blood pressure elevation is a common side effect
Dosing information reflects doses used in published research and commonly reported community protocols only. This is not a personal recommendation. These compounds are not FDA-approved for human use in the contexts described. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any protocol.
Considering stacking?
See the stacking guide for common combinations with Melanotan II and what to avoid.
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Community Reviews
Reviews reflect individual user experiences with research compounds and are not medical advice. Results vary. These compounds are not FDA approved for human use. Peptelligent does not verify reported experiences.
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