Alprostadil vs Melanotan II
A side-by-side research comparison of Alprostadil and Melanotan II across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Alprostadil | Melanotan II |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Alprostadil (Prostaglandin E1) | Melanotan II (MT-II) |
| Category | Sexual Health | Sexual Health |
| Status | FDA-approved drug (prescription) | Research compound |
| Mechanism | Alprostadil activates prostaglandin receptors that raise intracellular cAMP in cavernosal smooth muscle, causing vasodilation and increased blood inflow to produce an erection regardless of nerve signaling or arousal. | Non-selective MCR agonist: MC1R produces tanning, MC3R/MC4R increase sexual arousal, MC4R suppresses appetite. Broader receptor activity than PT-141. |
| Molecular weight | 354.5 Da | 1,024 Da |
| Half-life | Very short (minutes, locally metabolized) | 2-3 hours |
| Bioavailability | Intracavernosal injection or intraurethral suppository | High (SubQ) |
| Typical dose | Provider-titrated per response | 0.25-1 mg |
| Frequency | As needed before activity | Loading: daily/EOD · then 2x weekly maintenance |
| Route | Intracavernosal injection or urethral pellet | Subcutaneous injection |
Alprostadil reported benefits
- Effective for erectile dysfunction
- Works independent of arousal
- Rapid onset
- Useful when oral PDE5 inhibitors fail
Melanotan II reported benefits
- Skin tanning
- Enhanced sexual function
- Appetite suppression
- UV protection (melanin)
- Libido enhancement
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.