Melanotan-2 (MT-2) is an analog of the human peptide alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (a-MSH), that induces skin tanning. It plays a role in stimulating the production of melanin, a pigment that gives color to the skin, hair, and eyes. By increasing the amount of melanin in the skin, Melanotan-2 offers a degree of protection from UV rays, as more melanin in the skin means the skin has a better ability to protect itself from sun damage.
It allows for an accelerated rate of pigment production under much lower levels of UV exposure than would otherwise be necessary. This reduces the time spent under UV light, which in turn helps to prevent skin cancer and sunburn.
BENEFITS
- Reduces sun damage
- Prevents melanoma
- Increases sexual arousal and sexual desire
- May produce erections for men with Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
- Helps treat certain skin conditions such as rosacea
- Helps attain uniform skin tone
Other Therapeutic Applications
Photosensitivity disorders: Melanotan-2 has been studied for conditions like erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a rare genetic disorder that makes skin extremely sensitive to sunlight. The increased melanin reduces symptoms, allowing individuals to tolerate sunlight better.
Vitiligo research: Some research suggests potential use in helping to manage conditions like vitiligo by promoting repigmentation in affected areas.
SIDE EFFECTS
- Facial flushing — temporary warmth and redness of the skin
- Nausea
- Vomiting (less common)
- New or darkening freckles
- Decreased appetite which may lead to weight loss
- Stomach cramps immediately following injections
Less common but more severe side effects may include:
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Darkening of the lips and gums — some users notice changes in pigmentation in areas other than the skin
USE CAUTION WITH…
- PT-141: additive melanocortin effects
- Tesofensine: increased BP/HR risk
- 5-Amino-1mq: appetite suppression synergy creates a risk of nausea
- BPC-157, TB-500, KPV, Thymosin Alpha-1: Monitor for new mole growth, changes in moles
INTERACTIONS
- PDE-5 Inhibitors: Viagra (Sildenafil), Cialis (Tadalafil), Vardenafil
- Sympathomimetics/Stimulants: Clenbuterol, Ephedrine, high-dose caffeine, ADHD stimulants (amphetamine, methylphenidate)
- Other Melanocortin-activating agents: Bremelantide (PT-141), high-dose ACTH analogs
- Antidepressants & Psychiatric medications: SSRIs/SNRIs, MAOIs, and Dopamine agonists
CONTRAINDICATIONS
- Personal or family history of melanoma or atypical moles: Because it stimulates melanocyte activity, MT2 may increase growth of darkening of pre-existing dysplastic nevi (unusual-looking moles that differ from common moles in size, shape, and color)
- History of any type of skin cancer: basal cell, squamous cell, or melanoma; increased pigmentation can mask early malignant changes
- Uncontrolled hypertension or cardiovascular disease: MT-2 can increase blood pressure, heart rate, vasodilation, or flushing
- Severe anxiety, panic disorder, or mood instablity: MT-2 crosses the blood-brain barrier, and can worsen anxiety, irritability, insomnia, and dysphoria in sensitive individuals
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Erectile dysfunction related to cardiovascular disease: MT-2 can cause unpredictable erections (priapism risk); those with cardiovascular disease are at much higher risk
