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PC-019 · melanocortin · melanotan-ii

Melanotan II

MT-II

Also: MT2 · Melanotan 2

human trialanimal study

A synthetic analogue of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) that stimulates melanogenesis (skin tanning) without UV exposure. Melanotan II also has effects on sexual arousal, appetite suppression, and fat loss. PT-141 was derived from this peptide.

Non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist (MC1R through MC5R). MC1R activation stimulates melanin production. MC3R/MC4R activation in the hypothalamus affects sexual function, appetite, and energy homeostasis. The broad receptor activity explains its diverse effects.

  • Skin tanning
  • Sexual function
  • Appetite suppression
  • Fat loss
  • · Nausea (common at first)
  • · Facial flushing
  • · Spontaneous erections
  • · Mole darkening
  • · Appetite loss

Mechanism of Action

Non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist (MC1R through MC5R). MC1R activation stimulates melanin production. MC3R/MC4R activation in the hypothalamus affects sexual function, appetite, and energy homeostasis. The broad receptor activity explains its diverse effects.

Common Uses

Skin tanningSexual functionAppetite suppressionFat loss

Dosage & Pharmacology

DOSAGE RANGE: 0.25-0.5 mg daily loading, then 0.5 mg 1-2x weekly maintenance
HALF-LIFE: ~33 minutes
Dosage information is for research reference only. Not a recommendation.

Known Side Effects

  • Nausea (common at first)
  • Facial flushing
  • Spontaneous erections
  • Mole darkening
  • Appetite loss

Legal Status

US:Not FDA-approved, research chemical
UK:Not approved (widely sold illegally)
EU:Not approved
AU:Prescription only (S4)

Related Peptides

View all Melanotan II research on PubMed