Melanotan I
Also known as: MT-I, Afamelanotide, SCENESSE
Melanocortin Receptor Agonist
Overview
Synthetic analog of α-MSH that selectively targets MC1 receptors for melanin stimulation. FDA-approved as SCENESSE implant for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). Research-grade injectable form enables flexible dosing versus the implant version.
Key benefits
- Precise dosing control with rapid tanning onset
- Flexible home administration unlike implant version
- Visible tanning within 1-2 weeks with UV exposure
- Enhanced photoprotection through increased melanin
- More selective for MC1R than Melanotan II
Mechanism of action
Subcutaneous injection delivers peptide directly into systemic circulation. Selectively activates MC1R receptors to stimulate melanin production. Short half-life of approximately 30 minutes necessitates multiple daily dosing for sustained effect.
Molecular data
- Type
- Synthetic peptide analog
- Half-life
- ~30 minutes
Sequence
α-melanocyte stimulating hormone analog
Indications
What the research community uses this compound for, with self-reported effectiveness.
Skin Health
Enhanced Tanning Response
Most effectiveStimulates melanin for deeper, longer-lasting tans with reduced UV requirements
Photoprotection
Most effectiveIncreased melanin density provides natural UV protection and reduces sunburn
Even Pigmentation
EffectivePromotes uniform melanin distribution minimizing patchy tanning
Medical Applications
Erythropoietic Protoporphyria
Most effectiveFDA-approved indication for SCENESSE implant
Dosing protocols
Common protocols by delivery method. Adjust the curve below to model accumulation in your own cycle.
Injectable
Subcutaneous injection with rotation between abdomen, thigh, and upper arm.
| Protocol | Dose | Frequency | Route / duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loading phase | 0.25-0.5mg | 1-2x daily for 1-2 weeks | Subcutaneous |
| Maintenance | 0.25-0.5mg | 2-3x weekly | Subcutaneous |
Preparation
You will need
- 10mg Melanotan I vial
- Bacteriostatic water
- Insulin syringes
- Alcohol swabs
Steps
- Clean vial top with alcohol pad
- Add 2mL bacteriostatic water for 5mg/mL concentration
- Gently swirl - do not shake
- Solution should be clear and colorless
- Store refrigerated for up to 4 weeks
Work out the water volume and syringe units in the reconstitution calculator →
Nasal
Lower bioavailability (20-30%) compared to injection but more convenient.
| Protocol | Dose | Frequency | Route / duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard dosing | 0.5mg per spray | 2-3x daily | Intranasal |
Interactions
Pairwise interactions with other compounds you might be cycling — the same data behind the cycle builder's safety check.
Melanotan II
AvoidOverlapping mechanisms; avoid combining
Tretinoin/Retinoids
MonitorRetinoids increase photosensitivity; monitor skin reactions
Photosensitizing Medications
MonitorEnhanced monitoring recommended
UV Exposure
SynergisticReduces required UV dose by approximately 50%
Beta-Carotene
CompatibleProvides additional photoprotection
Timeline
Typical week-by-week effects reported in clinical and observational data.
- Days 1-3
Possible mild nausea, facial flushing, reduced appetite
- Days 3-7
Initial skin darkening, increased mole/freckle pigmentation
- Week 1-2
Noticeable tanning with minimal UV exposure
- Week 2-4
Peak effects, maintained pigmentation with reduced frequency
Safety
Reported adverse effects, contraindications, and what to monitor on cycle.
Common side effects
- Mild nausea
- Facial flushing
- Reduced appetite
- Increased mole/freckle pigmentation
Rare side effects
- Injection site reactions
Stop signs — stop and seek advice
- Severe nausea/vomiting lasting >24 hours
- Rapid concerning mole/freckle changes
- Injection site infection signs
- Unusual skin reactions
- Allergic reaction symptoms
Monitoring
- Monitor moles regularly via self-examination
- Maintain UV protection despite enhanced tanning
Quality checks
What a legitimate product looks like, what should give pause, and what should make you stop.
Good signs
- Third-party HPLC testing confirming >98% purity
- Proper lyophilized powder storage
- Clear, colorless reconstitution
- Minimal side effects profile
Warning signs
- Check expiration dates
Stop signs — don't use
- Pre-mixed liquid solutions (degrade rapidly)
- Cloudy or discolored solution
References
Primary literature and clinical-trial data informing this entry.
Pharmacokinetics Injectable MT-I
PubMed · 1997
Established half-life and bioavailability parameters
Last updated . How this page was sourced is described in the methodology.