Melanotan II
Symbol M2 · MW 1024 Da
Cyclic α-MSH analog studied for melanogenesis and tanning response.
- Discovered
- 1990
- Half-life
- 1 hour
- Approval
- Not FDA-approved; safety concerns
Quick facts
- Category
- Beauty
- Route
- Injectable
- Molecular weight
- 1024 Da
- Half-life
- 1 hour
- Discovered
- 1990
- Approval status
- Not FDA-approved; safety concerns
Reported effects
- Tanning response
- Appetite effects
- Libido research
Overview
Melanotan II is a synthetic melanocortin receptor agonist commonly associated with skin pigmentation, tanning, libido, and appetite-related effects. It works by activating melanocortin receptors, which are involved in melanin production and several other biological pathways. Melanotan II is often discussed as a tanning peptide because it may increase skin pigmentation, but it also has broader effects that make safety and sourcing important concerns. It is different from approved medical pigmentation therapies and should not be treated as a simple cosmetic product. Its purpose is primarily related to melanocortin signaling, pigmentation support, and secondary effects on sexual function and appetite.
Evidence context
Melanotan II evidence summary
Human clinical evidence
Melanotan II has an approval context listed in the Peptidic database. Approved use still depends on the specific indication, formulation, labeling, and clinician guidance.
Animal, preclinical, or formulation evidence
Melanotan II is listed in a beauty or cosmetic context, where topical formulation data and ingredient claims should be separated from systemic medical claims.
Status and evidence strength
Peptidic lists the approval status for Melanotan II as Not FDA-approved; safety concerns. The reported effects below are reference fields from the peptide database, not medical promises. Source links are included later on the page when available so readers can continue review from primary or reputable sources.
How it's taken
- Typical Administration
- Injectable
- Typical Dosage
- No established approved dosage; commonly referenced range is 250 mcg–1 mg per injection
- Typical Frequency
- Daily during loading phases; 1–3 times weekly for maintenance-style protocols
Dosing depends on the approved indication, formulation, titration schedule, and clinician guidance. This page is educational and not a substitute for medical advice.
Research sources
Source links included from peer-reviewed literature, clinical records, and medical databases for educational research context on Melanotan II.
Internal links
Related peptides
Frequently asked questions
What category is Melanotan II in?
Melanotan II is listed in the Beauty category on Peptidic.
What route is Melanotan II associated with?
Melanotan II is associated with the injectable route in the Peptidic database. This is descriptive route context, not a use instruction.
Is Melanotan II approved?
Peptidic lists the approval status for Melanotan II as: Not FDA-approved; safety concerns. Approval details can vary by indication and jurisdiction.
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For educational purposes only. Many peptides shown are research compounds and not approved for human use in all jurisdictions. Explore the full peptide database, peptide calculator, or peptide tracker.
Last reviewed for educational accuracy: 2026-06-01