Melanotan II

Melanotan-2 (MT-2)

Evidence & Status

  • Preliminary / Experimental
  • Preliminary

At a Glance

A synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone studied for its simultaneous effects on skin pigmentation, sexual arousal pathways, and appetite. Not approved for medical use; most evidence comes from preclinical research and small, uncontrolled human studies.

Plain English

Researchers study Melanotan II because it activates multiple melanocortin receptors that simultaneously influence skin pigmentation, sexual arousal pathways in the brain, and appetite regulation. Scientists are interested in understanding how activating several receptor subtypes at once affects different physiological systems. It is structurally related to the approved drugs PT-141 (Bremelanotide) and Afamelanotide, both of which were developed with more selective receptor targeting to reduce the broad side effects associated with non-selective melanocortin activation.

Overview

A cyclic alpha-MSH analogue that activates multiple melanocortin receptors. Small human studies examined pigmentation and erectile responses, but the compound is not FDA-approved and does not have an established clinical treatment regimen.

Research Summary

A small double-blind crossover study in men with erectile dysfunction reported erections and frequent adverse effects after Melanotan II. These limited observations do not establish safety or efficacy for tanning, sexual performance, or any other clinical use.

Research Areas

  • Pigmentation/tanning
  • Libido & sexual function
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Appetite suppression
  • Autism (preliminary)

Safety & Risks

Serious Risks

  • Small human studies reported nausea and unplanned erections; long-term dermatologic and cardiovascular safety has not been established

Reported Side Effects

  • Nausea (very common)
  • Facial flushing
  • Spontaneous erections (men)
  • Fatigue
  • Yawning
  • Darkening of moles/nevi
United States
Not FDA-approved; no FDA-approved Melanotan II product is marketed
United Kingdom
Not a licensed medicine
Australia
Not an approved therapeutic product identified in this review
Canada
Not an authorized medicinal product identified in this review

Citations & Sources