Melanotan I
Also known as: Afamelanotide
Primary recreational use: Cosmetic tanning
What is Melanotan I?
Melanotan I, also known as Afamelanotide, is a synthetic analog of the alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone. It was developed to selectively stimulate MC1 receptors, promoting melanin production for tanning effects. It is FDA-approved in implant form for specific medical conditions like erythropoietic protoporphyria but widely used off-label for cosmetic tanning. Users should be cautious of risks, including skin changes and potential interactions with UV exposure.
Primary Benefits
Enhanced tanning response. Photoprotection. Even pigmentation.
How It Works
Melanotan I is a synthetic analog of α-MSH that binds to MC1 receptors, increasing cyclic AMP, which stimulates melanogenesis. This leads to enhanced melanin production, providing a protective barrier against UV radiation and producing visible tanning effects.
Safety Tips
Precautions reported in community discussions and literature. This is not a complete list.
- 1.DON'T start with high doses—begin at the lowest effective dose to assess tolerance.
- 2.DON'T use if you have a history of melanoma or other skin cancers.
- 3.DON'T apply without proper sterile injection technique to prevent infections.
- 4.AVOID excessive UV exposure despite the protective effects.
- 5.NEVER share needles or reconstituted solutions.
Use Contexts
Different purposes have different protocols, dosing, and considerations
Erythropoietic protoporphyria
strong evidenceMelanotan I is approved for use in managing erythropoietic protoporphyria, a condition that causes painful skin reactions to sunlight.
Evidence: FDA-approved for treatment of erythropoietic protoporphyria with demonstrated efficacy in clinical trials.
The following are ranges reported in published literature and community discussions. These are NOT recommendations or medical advice.
Timing: Morning
Notes: Administered before anticipated sun exposure.
Community-Reported Protocols
Not recommendations: The following protocols are compiled from online communities and published literature. Pepbase does not endorse, recommend, or verify these protocols. They are provided for informational purposes only. Individual responses vary significantly. Consult a licensed medical professional before any use.
| Reported Goal | Reported Dose | Reported Frequency | Reported Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Photoprotection | 0.16 mg/kg | once daily | Subcutaneous injection |
Pharmacokinetics
Reported Side Effects
This is not a complete list. Other side effects may occur.
Common
Serious / Rare
- Skin changes
- New moles
Injection-Specific Warnings
- Ensure use of sterile technique to prevent infection
Storage
Cosmetic tanning
limited evidenceUsed off-label to enhance tanning with reduced UV exposure, providing a deeper, longer-lasting tan.
Evidence: Community use widely reported, though unsupported by regulatory bodies. Mostly anecdotal evidence from user reports.
The following are ranges reported in published literature and community discussions. These are NOT recommendations or medical advice.
Timing: Morning and evening, 6-8 hours apart
Notes: Avoid UV overexposure; start with the lowest dose possible to assess skin reaction.
Community-Reported Protocols
Not recommendations: The following protocols are compiled from online communities and published literature. Pepbase does not endorse, recommend, or verify these protocols. They are provided for informational purposes only. Individual responses vary significantly. Consult a licensed medical professional before any use.
| Reported Goal | Reported Dose | Reported Frequency | Reported Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Tanning | 0.25mg | twice daily | Subcutaneous injection |
| Maintenance Tanning | 0.5mg | once daily | Subcutaneous injection |
Pharmacokinetics
Reported Side Effects
This is not a complete list. Other side effects may occur.
Common
Serious / Rare
- Skin changes
- Possible melanoma
Injection-Specific Warnings
- Monitor for skin changes, especially new or changing moles
Storage
Harm Reduction Information
Quality Concerns
- Contamination from unregulated sources
- Degradation of pre-mixed solutions
Safety Tips
- Use bacteriostatic water for reconstitution
- Rotate injection sites to prevent irritation
- Start with low dosing to gauge response
- Store reconstituted peptides under proper conditions
- Use sterile equipment to avoid infections
Warning Signs to Stop
- New or changing moles
- Severe nausea or vomiting
- Signs of an allergic reaction
Seek Medical Help Immediately If
- New skin growths
- Severe side effects or allergic reactions
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Melanotan I
How long until I see effects?
Melanotan I typically shows initial darkening within 3-5 days, with significant tanning visible in 1-2 weeks.
What time of day should I take it?
It's best to administer Melanotan I in the morning and evening, 6-8 hours apart, to maintain steady levels.
How can I minimize side effects?
To minimize side effects, start with a lower dose of Melanotan I and monitor for any changes in moles or skin.
Does tolerance develop?
Tolerance to Melanotan I's effects is not well-defined, but cycling off it for 4-8 weeks can help maintain responsiveness.
How should I store it?
Store Melanotan I powder at room temperature or refrigerated. Keep reconstituted solutions refrigerated at 2-8°C for up to 4 weeks.
Do I need to cycle it?
Cycling Melanotan I is recommended, with a 2-4 week loading phase followed by a maintenance period and breaks of 4-8 weeks.
Can I combine it with other peptides?
Melanotan I can be combined with peptides like Beta-Carotene for enhanced effects but monitor combinations carefully.
How do I know if it's working?
You'll notice increased skin pigmentation, initially around moles or freckles, followed by overall tanning.
Reported Combinations
Compounds reported to be used alongside Melanotan I in community discussions
Beta-Carotene
May enhance tanning effect when combined with UV exposure.
UV Exposure
Boosts melanin production when timed properly post-injection.
Tretinoin/Retinoids
Monitor combination; may increase skin sensitivity to UV.
Reported Interactions
Interactions reported in literature and community discussions.
Increased risk of adverse skin reactions.
Potentially increases side effects like flushing and nausea.
May increase bleeding risk with frequent injections.
Reconstitution Calculator
100 units = 1 mL
Safety Tips
- Always consult a licensed medical professional for dosing and reconstitution instructions.
- Always double check your units. Mixing up mg and mcg can be very dangerous.
- Make sure to select your syringe type. U-100 and U-50 syringes have different units.
- Ensure you're not adding more BAC than your vial can hold. Most vials have maximum capacities listed.
This calculator is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, dosing recommendations, or safety determinations. Reference ranges shown are compiled from publicly available sources and are not a substitute for guidance from a licensed healthcare professional.
Legal Status by Region
Regulatory status varies by country
USA
approved for specific conditions
UK
investigational
EU
approved for specific conditions
Australia
not-approved
Canada
investigational
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Citations
Last updated: October 2, 2023