Melanotan-1 Research Guide

Full name: Melanotan-1 (Afamelanotide)

A synthetic analog of alpha-MSH that stimulates melanin production for skin tanning and photoprotection. The pharmaceutical form (afamelanotide) is approved for a rare light-sensitivity disorder; it lacks the strong libido/nausea effects of Melanotan-2.

How Melanotan-1 Works

Selectively activates the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) on melanocytes, increasing eumelanin production and providing UV photoprotection and skin darkening.

Dosing Protocol

• Typical dose: ~0.5-1 mg per dose (research)
• Frequency: Daily loading then maintenance
• Duration: Loading ~1-2 weeks, then maintenance
• Route: Subcutaneous injection

Reported Benefits

• Skin tanning with less sun exposure
• UV photoprotection
• Fewer side effects than Melanotan-2
• Approved form for light-sensitivity disorder

Potential Side Effects

• Darkening of moles/freckles
• Nausea (less than MT-2)
• Facial flushing
• Injection site reactions

Research Citations

1. Afamelanotide for erythropoietic protoporphyria (2015) - Increased pain-free sun exposure and quality of life in a controlled trial, leading to approval.

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