Melanotan I
FDA ApprovedMelanotan I (Afamelanotide)
A linear analog of alpha-MSH studied for skin tanning and photoprotection. More selective and considered lower risk than Melanotan II for sexual side effects.
Dose
0.01-0.02 mg/kg
Route
SubQ injection
Cycle
Variable, depending on desired pigmentation and research goals; often 1-3 months
Storage
Refrigerated (28C), protected from light
What is Melanotan I?
Melanotan I, also known as Afamelanotide, is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It is a linear peptide primarily studied for its melanogenic and photoprotective properties. Unlike Melanotan II, Melanotan I is considered more selective for the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R), which is responsible for stimulating melanin production in melanocytes. This selectivity is often cited as a reason for its reduced incidence of certain side effects, particularly sexual side effects, compared to Melanotan II. Research protocols commonly investigate its potential for inducing skin tanning and offering photoprotection, particularly in individuals with conditions like erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). Its mechanism of action involves binding to and activating MC1R, leading to an increase in eumelanin synthesis, which is a dark pigment providing UV protection.
Key Benefits
- Skin tanning
- UV protection improvement
- Photoprotection research
- Reduced sexual side effects vs MT-II
Mechanism of Action
- Selective melanocortin 1 receptor agonist (MC1R)
- Stimulates melanin production
- More selective than Melanotan II
Best For
- Tanning research
- Photoprotection research
- Skin pigmentation
Body Systems
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Molecular Information
Molecular weight
1646.85 g/mol
Length
13
Type
Peptide
Amino acid sequence
Ac-Ser-Tyr-Ser-Nle-Glu-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Gly-Lys-Pro-Val-NH2
Nle (Norleucine) is a synthetic amino acid analog of methionine, and D-Phe is D-Phenylalanine, enhancing stability and receptor binding.
Pharmacokinetics
Time to peak
1.5-2.5 hours
Half-life
1 h
Time to clear
Approximately 5-6 hours for elimination from plasma
Clinical pharmacology studies on afamelanotide (Melanotan I)
Research Indications
Skin Tanning Induction
Research commonly investigates Melanotan I's ability to induce a natural-looking tan by stimulating eumelanin production in melanocytes.
Pigmentation in Genetic Conditions
Studies have explored its use in individuals with conditions that affect pigmentation or require increased melanin, such as Albinism, though this is less common than for photoprotective indications.
Research Protocols
| Goal | Dose | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Pigmentation Induction | 0.01 mg/kg | Daily | Subcutaneous injection |
| Accelerated Pigmentation Induction | 0.02 mg/kg | Daily | Subcutaneous injection |
| Maintenance of Pigmentation | 0.01-0.02 mg/kg | 1-2 times per week | Subcutaneous injection |
| Photoprotection in EPP (Clinical Study Protocol) | 16 mg (implant) | Every 60 days (implant release) | Subcutaneous implant (specific to Afamelanotide clinical use) |
| Assessing UV-Induced DNA Damage Reduction | Variable, dependent on study design | Daily for 2-4 weeks prior to UV exposure | Subcutaneous injection |
Dosing frequency may be adjusted based on individual response and desired level of pigmentation. A common approach involves a loading phase followed by a maintenance phase.
Peptide Interactions
- Synergistic
UV Radiation Exposure
Melanotan I's melanin-stimulating effects are enhanced by UV exposure. Controlled UV exposure is often discussed in research protocols to optimize tanning, though excessive exposure should be avoided.
- Monitor Combination
Alcohol
Some individuals report increased flushing or nausea with Melanotan I; alcohol consumption could potentially exacerbate these effects. Research protocols often advise moderation.
- Use Caution
Photosensitizing Medications
While Melanotan I aims to be photoprotective, combining it with medications known to increase sun sensitivity (e.g., some antibiotics, diuretics) warrants careful monitoring and strict sun protection.
- Compatible
Immunosuppressants
No direct contraindications or known interactions are widely reported in the literature regarding immunosuppressants and Melanotan I, but general caution for any new substance is prudent in immunocompromised subjects.
- Avoid
Tyrosinase Inhibitors
Compounds that inhibit tyrosinase (e.g., hydroquinone, arbutin) work against the melanin production pathway that Melanotan I activates. Combining them would likely negate Melanotan I's effects.
How to Reconstitute
- 1Gather materials: lyophilized Melanotan I vial, bacteriostatic water (BW), sterile syringe (e.g., 1mL) and needle (e.g., 23-25G), alcohol wipes.
- 2Clean the rubber stopper of the Melanotan I vial and the bacteriostatic water vial with alcohol wipes.
- 3Draw the desired amount of bacteriostatic water into the syringe. A common ratio is 1mL of BW per 10mg of Melanotan I for easier dosing calculations.
- 4Slowly inject the bacteriostatic water into the Melanotan I vial, aiming the stream down the side of the vial to prevent direct impact on the peptide powder.
- 5Do not shake the vial. Gently swirl the vial to facilitate dissolution. If the peptide does not dissolve immediately, allow it to sit in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes and swirl gently again.
- 6Once fully dissolved, the solution should be clear. Store the reconstituted solution in the refrigerator.
Always use bacteriostatic water for reconstitution to ensure stability and sterility for multiple uses.
What to Expect
- Week 1-2: Initial, subtle darkening of existing freckles or moles may be observed. Some individuals may report mild nausea or flushing after initial doses.
- Week 2-4: Gradual development of a light tan may become noticeable, particularly in sun-exposed areas. Side effects like flushing may diminish.
- Month 1-2: Tanning becomes more pronounced and uniform. Skin may show increased resilience to UV exposure. Continued darkening of moles/freckles may occur.
- Month 2-3+: Desired level of pigmentation is often achieved. Maintenance dosing may be initiated to sustain the tan. Photoprotective effects become more evident.
- Ongoing: Pigmentation is maintained with lower frequency dosing. Regular monitoring of skin for new or changing moles is commonly discussed in research.
- Cessation: Tanning gradually fades over weeks to months after discontinuation, as melanin is naturally turned over.
Side Effects & Safety
| Effect | Frequency | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Nausea | Common | Mild |
| Facial flushing | Common | Mild |
| Mole darkening | Common | Moderate - monitor |
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Open CalculatorPeptides discussed here are for research purposes only. Nothing on this page is medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making health decisions.