Melanotan 2

1. What It Does

Melanotan 2 (MT-2) is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH), a naturally occurring peptide that regulates skin pigmentation, energy homeostasis, and sexual function. Unlike the natural hormone, MT-2 has been modified to increase potency and stability.

MT-2 acts primarily by binding to and activating melanocortin receptors throughout the body:

• MC1R (Melanocortin 1 Receptor): Found predominantly in melanocytes (pigment-producing cells), activation stimulates melanin production leading to skin darkening.

• MC3R and MC4R (Melanocortin 3 & 4 Receptors): Located in the hypothalamus and other brain regions, these receptors influence appetite regulation and energy homeostasis.

• MC5R (Melanocortin 5 Receptor): Present in various tissues including sebaceous glands and fat cells, with less understood functions.

• MC3R and MC4R in the Brain: Also influence sexual behavior and function through complex neural pathways.

This promiscuous binding across multiple receptor types explains MT-2’s diverse range of effects, including its ability to stimulate tanning without UV exposure, influence sexual arousal, and potentially impact appetite.

2. Main Reported Benefits

Research and anecdotal reports on Melanotan 2 suggest several potential effects:

• Enhanced Skin Pigmentation: Studies demonstrate significant darkening of skin tone without sun exposure, with increases in melanin production of 30-50% observed in various skin types.

• Photoprotection: The increased melanin provides natural protection against UV radiation, with research suggesting a photoprotective effect equivalent to SPF 3-5, reducing UV-induced DNA damage by 40-60% in some studies.

• Reduced Sunburn Risk: Clinical observations show decreased sunburn incidence and severity, with studies demonstrating 50-70% reduction in erythema response to controlled UV exposure.

• Increased Sexual Arousal and Libido: Both male and female users report enhanced sexual desire and arousal, with research suggesting effects comparable to other pro-sexual medications for certain types of sexual dysfunction.

• Potential Erectile Function Enhancement: Many male users report improved erectile function, with some studies suggesting particular efficacy for psychogenic erectile dysfunction.

• Modest Appetite Suppression: Some research suggests a 10-20% reduction in caloric intake through MC4R-mediated appetite regulation, though this effect is highly variable between individuals.

• Potential Cardiovascular Benefits: Limited research suggests possible benefits for reducing inflammation in vascular tissues, though this remains highly preliminary.

3. Normal Applications

MT-2 is utilized in various research contexts, though it’s important to note it remains unapproved for human use in most countries:

• Photoprotection Research: Studies examining its potential to reduce skin cancer risk in high-risk populations, including those with fair skin or history of skin cancers.

• Vitiligo and Hypopigmentation Disorders: Investigational use for conditions characterized by loss of skin pigmentation.

• Sexual Dysfunction Studies: Research into applications for both male and female sexual arousal disorders and hypoactive sexual desire.

• Erythropoietic Protoporphyria: Limited studies on its use in this rare condition where patients experience painful photosensitivity.

• Metabolic Research: Investigations into melanocortin receptor function in appetite regulation and energy homeostasis.

• Tanning Without UV Exposure: Research into skin darkening for cosmetic purposes without the risks associated with UV radiation.

• Prevention of Polymorphous Light Eruption: Early studies on preventing this common sun-induced skin rash.

4. Common Side Effects

Melanotan 2 has several well-documented side effects that vary in prevalence and severity:

• Nausea: The most commonly reported side effect, affecting 65-80% of users, particularly with initial doses and typically diminishing with continued use. The nausea typically begins 15-30 minutes after injection and may last 1-4 hours.

• Facial Flushing: Approximately 35-60% of users experience flushing or reddening of the face and upper body, lasting 1-2 hours after administration.

• Spontaneous Erections: 40-70% of male users report unprovoked erections, sometimes lasting 1-4 hours, which may be either a desired effect or unwanted side effect depending on context.

• Increased Mole Darkening: About 30-50% of users report existing moles and freckles becoming darker, which necessitates careful skin monitoring.

• Hyperpigmentation: Uneven skin darkening may occur, particularly in areas with existing inflammation or sun damage.

• Increased Blood Pressure: Transient elevation of 5-15 mmHg systolic pressure is common, lasting 1-3 hours after administration.

• Fatigue or Dizziness: Approximately 15-30% of users report temporary fatigue, which may be related to changes in blood pressure.

• Anxiety or Restlessness: Some users (10-25%) report a feeling of anxiousness or agitation following administration.

• Priapism Risk: Though rare, prolonged painful erections requiring medical intervention have been reported.

Of particular concern is the potential for MT-2 to accelerate growth or changes in pre-existing melanocytic nevi (moles) and the theoretical risk of melanoma promotion, though direct causation has not been established.

5. Recommended Administration or Dosage

For intramuscular (IM) administration in research settings:

• Typical Dosage Range: Used in a progressive dosing protocol:

  • Initial loading phase: 250-500 mcg daily for 5-10 days

  • Maintenance phase: 250-500 mcg 1-2 times weekly once desired pigmentation is achieved

• Administration Method: Intramuscular injection into a large muscle group such as the deltoid, quadriceps, or gluteal muscles.

• Starting Dose Considerations:

  • Many research protocols recommend starting with a very low dose (100-200 mcg) to assess individual tolerance

  • Gradual dose increases based on side effect profile and response

  • Lower initial doses typically reduce nausea and other side effects

• Timing Considerations:

  • Evening administration may allow users to sleep through some side effects

  • Administration before bedtime often recommended to minimize nausea impact

  • Some protocols suggest taking an anti-nausea medication 30 minutes before injection

• Complementary Measures:

  • Controlled, modest UV exposure enhances tanning response

  • Maintaining hydration may reduce side effect intensity

  • Consistent dosing schedule improves results and tolerance

• Preparation and Storage:

  • MT-2 is typically supplied as a lyophilized powder requiring reconstitution with bacteriostatic water

  • Once reconstituted, the solution should be refrigerated (36-46°F or 2-8°C) and used within 30-60 days

  • The solution should be protected from light to maintain potency

Important Safety Considerations:

• Regular skin examinations by a dermatologist are advisable to monitor for changes in moles or other skin lesions

• Those with cardiovascular conditions should exercise particular caution due to potential blood pressure effects

• Individuals with a personal or family history of melanoma should avoid use entirely

Disclaimer: Melanotan 2 is not approved by regulatory authorities like the FDA for human use. The information provided is for research purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice or encouragement to use this compound. Any research use should follow appropriate ethical guidelines and safety protocols.