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Melanotan I

Also known as: Afamelanotide, SCENESSE, NDP-MSH

Evidence Tier Amedium riskadvancedrx approved

FDA-approved MC1R agonist (SCENESSE implant) for erythropoietic protoporphyria. Prescription only.

Prescription Only

This is an FDA-approved prescription product. It should only be obtained through licensed healthcare providers and pharmacies. Do not attempt to source through RUO or gray-market channels.

Overview

Melanotan I is commonly equated with afamelanotide, the active ingredient in SCENESSE — an FDA-approved subcutaneous implant for adults with erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). It acts primarily on MC1R, increasing eumelanin production independent of UV exposure. The approved dose is a 16 mg implant every 2 months. Label warns about hypersensitivity and skin monitoring for pigmented lesions. Cosmetic tanning is not the approved context.

Research Details

Mechanism of Action

Melanocortin receptor agonist binding predominantly MC1R; increases eumelanin production independent of UV exposure.

Study Dose Range

SCENESSE label: 16 mg subcutaneous implant every 2 months.

Administration Routes

subcutaneous implant

Onset / Timeline

Controlled-release kinetics; plasma concentrations up to ~96 hours in most subjects.

Expected Effects

Phototoxicity reduction in EPP (evidence-backed). Cosmetic tanning is not the approved use.

Adverse Effects

Hypersensitivity, implant site reactions, pigment changes, monitoring for pigmented lesions.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to afamelanotide (per label).

Interaction Notes

No drug interaction studies were conducted (per label).

Related Goals
Skin & Hair
Known Interactions

caution with PT-141

Melanocortin agonist overlap; conservative caution.

caution with Melanotan II

Melanocortin agonist overlap; conservative caution.

Available From

No vendors currently listed for this peptide.

Frequently Compared

Melanotan II

Unlicensed broad melanocortin agonist with pigmentation and sexual side-effect profiles. Highest compliance risk.

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Information provided for educational and research reference only. Not medical advice. Not for diagnosing, treating, curing, or preventing disease. Products referenced are labeled Research Use Only (RUO) by vendors; not for human or veterinary use.