Cosmetic•FDA Approved

Melanotan 1

Melanotan 1 (Afamelanotide) is a synthetic analogue of alpha-MSH, similar to Melanotan 2 but with a much higher selectivity for the MC1 receptor. It promotes tanning with significantly fewer side effects.

Mechanism of Action

It selectively binds to the Melanocortin-1 Receptor (MC1R) to stimulate melanogenesis (pigment production). Unlike MT2, it does not cross the blood-brain barrier as easily, reducing central nervous system effects like nausea and arousal.

Key Benefits

Promotes natural-looking tan
Photoprotection against UV damage
Fewer side effects than Melanotan 2
No significant effect on libido or appetite

Research Protocol

Maintenance
1-2mg daily until tan, then weekly
Requires higher doses than MT2. FDA approved as Scenesse (implant) for EPP.

Chemical Properties

FormulaC78H111N21O19
Mol. Weight1646.9 g/mol

Side Effects & Risks

  • •Mild facial flushing
  • •Nausea (rare compared to MT2)
  • •Injection site reaction

Amino Acid Sequence

Ac-Ser-Tyr-Ser-Nle-Glu-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Gly-Lys-Pro-Val-NH2
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