Melanotan I

Melanotan I is an analogue of alpha-MSH associated with afamelanotide signaling pathways. Approval is specific to the indication; use for tanning outside an indicated treatment carries risks.

Research schedules name a low starting amount and a titrated standard amount without numeric doses. Frequency depends on the protocol, and the route varies.

Responses differ between individuals. Begin with the lowest dose and observe your response carefully. Speak with your clinician before use and report unexpected symptoms. Human adverse effects are not fully characterized for every compound.

• Sexual Function

  Effective

  Research and clinical observations indicate effects on sexual responses.

• Libido Support

  Effective

  Clinical observations suggest improvements in measures of desire and arousal.

• Melanocortin Activity

  Moderate

  Its activity involves melanocortin receptors within the central nervous system.

• PDE5 Inhibitors (Sildenafil, Tadalafil)

  Monitor

• Blood Pressure Medications

  Caution

• Other Melanocortin Agonists

  Avoid

• Naltrexone

  Monitor

Diluent: Use bacteriostatic water; avoid saline because precipitation may occur.

1. Let the refrigerated vial stand at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before preparation.
2. Disinfect the stopper using an alcohol swab, then wait until it has dried fully in the air.
3. Measure the calculated quantity of bacteriostatic water with a sterile syringe. Use only this diluent; avoid saline because precipitation may occur.
4. Add the water gradually against the inner vial wall. Keep the stream away from the powder itself.
5. Rotate the vial with a gentle swirling motion. Do not shake forcefully, because this can degrade the contents.
6. Wait 2–3 minutes for the powder to dissolve completely, and check that the liquid is transparent and has no color.
7. Use an insulin syringe to withdraw the calculated amount for injection beneath the skin.
8. Inject in the thigh, abdomen or upper arm. Change the injection location each time to help prevent lipodystrophy.
9. Refrigerate the mixed solution at 2–8°C. Use it within a maximum of 28 days after preparation.

Week 1–2

During the first 1–2 weeks, early effects may accompany an adjustment period. Watch for adverse reactions.

Week 2–4

By weeks 2–4, the main effects may start becoming apparent. Make dose changes only according to your clinician’s guidance.

Week 4–8

During weeks 4–8, the principal effects are expected to be established. Review your progress with your clinician.

Week 8+

From week 8 onward, review the results and decide with your clinician whether to continue, cycle or change the dose.

• Mild pain, bruising or redness around the injection location
• Possible allergic reaction; stop use if hives or a rash develops

Melanotan I: approved in the US.

• US

  Approved

  FDA approval is indication-specific in the afamelanotide context, with prescription requirements. This does not confer approval for non-indicated tanning. Telehealth is not applicable. No 503A ban is identified, without affirmative compounding authorization.

  Rx required

  Yes

  Telehealth

  N/A

1. Afamelanotide for erythropoietic protoporphyria (2015)

2. Afamelanotide. (2012)

   PMID 38598652

3. Targeting the central melanocortin system for the treatment of metabolic disorders. (2023)

   PMID 37365323DOI 10.1038/s41574-023-00855-y