Melanotan II for Sexual Function & Skin Tanning — Libido & Sex
Dual-purpose melanocortin receptor agonist for erectile dysfunction, sexual desire enhancement, and melanogenesis (tanning).
Overview
Melanotan II (MT-2) is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH), developed at the University of Arizona in the 1980s. It's 1,000x more potent than natural α-MSH and activates multiple melanocortin receptors (MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R). Clinical trials show robust efficacy for erectile dysfunction (8/10 responders achieving clinical erections lasting 38 minutes vs 3 minutes placebo, p=0.0045) and increased sexual desire in both men and women. It also induces melanogenesis (skin tanning) through MC1R activation, providing protective pigmentation with minimal UV exposure. Not FDA-approved but led to development of approved derivatives: bremelanotide (PT-141) for sexual dysfunction and afamelanotide for photoprotection.
Indications
- Psychogenic erectile dysfunction
- Low libido and sexual desire (male and female)
- Sexual arousal disorder
- Skin tanning and photoprotection
- Prevention of UV-induced skin damage
- Appetite suppression (secondary effect)
Mechanism of Action
Psychogenic erectile dysfunction or low sexual desire reduces arousal and sexual function
Dosing
| Compound | Dose | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Melanotan II | 0.025 mg/kg (1.75-2mg for 70kg person) | As needed, 1-5 hours before sexual activity | Clinical trial dose: onset 2 hours, duration 38+ minutes |
| Melanotan II | 0.5-1 mg | As needed, 2-4 hours before activity | Lower dose for libido vs erectile support |
| Melanotan II | 250-500 mcg | Daily for 10-14 days | Start 250 mcg, titrate up; combine with minimal UV exposure |
| Melanotan II | 250-500 mcg | 1-2x weekly | Maintains tan with occasional UV exposure |
| Melanotan II | 100-250 mcg | Every 2-3 days | Assess tolerance; increase gradually to minimize nausea |
Evidence Grade
GRADE C
Safety & Contraindications
- CRITICAL: NOT FDA-APPROVED - Unregulated in most jurisdictions
- WARNING: Use only under physician supervision with informed consent
- Darkening of moles, freckles, and existing pigmentation (monitor closely)
- Common: Nausea (most frequent), facial flushing, appetite suppression
- Spontaneous erections/priapism (1-5 hours post-injection) - seek medical attention if >4 hours
- Case reports: Rhabdomyolysis, renal infarction (rare but serious)
- Contraindicated: History of melanoma/skin cancer, cardiovascular disease, pregnancy/breastfeeding
- Online products often contaminated, mislabeled, or underdosed - source from lab-tested suppliers only
- Monitor skin changes regularly; dermatology consultation recommended
- No long-term safety data beyond 6 months in humans