Description

Melanotan-2 is a synthetic analog of the naturally occurring alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It is a peptide hormone primarily known for its ability to stimulate melanogenesis—the production of melanin in the skin—leading to a rapid, deep tan without the need for extended sun or UV exposure. Its effects extend beyond pigmentation to include potential appetite suppression and libido enhancement.

Mechanism of Action

The mechanism of action for Melanotan-2 involves binding to melanocortin receptors (MCRs) throughout the body. Its primary action is on the MC1R receptor on melanocytes in the skin. This binding triggers a cascade that increases the production and dispersion of eumelanin (dark pigment), resulting in skin darkening. Melanotan-2 also has affinity for other melanocortin receptors, such as MC4R in the brain, which is involved in appetite and sexual function, accounting for its secondary reported effects.

Clinical Application and Dosage

Melanotan-2 was originally investigated for clinical applications including photoprotection for individuals with sun sensitivity and certain skin disorders. It has not received widespread regulatory approval for these uses and is predominantly utilized in non-clinical contexts for cosmetic tanning.

Dosing of Melanotan-2 is highly individualized and not standardized. Common non-clinical protocols involve a “loading phase” using subcutaneous injections, often starting with a very low dose (e.g., 0.25 mg or 250 mcg) to assess tolerance, gradually increasing over several days. Maintenance doses are typically lower and administered 2-3 times per week. The 10 mg vial of Melanotan-2 provides multiple doses and must be reconstituted with bacteriostatic water prior to use.

Treatment Protocol and Monitoring

A tanning protocol with Melanotan-2 involves an initial loading phase of daily injections for 7-10 days, often paired with moderate UV exposure (sun or tanning bed) to “activate” the pigment. This is followed by a maintenance phase with less frequent injections. Key monitoring focuses on skin pigmentation, the emergence of new moles or freckles, and tolerance to side effects. Blood pressure should be monitored due to its potential hypertensive effects.

Pharmacological Profile

Melanotan-2 is a synthetic peptide administered via subcutaneous injection. It has a short half-life, necessitating frequent dosing during loading phases. Once reconstituted, it must be stored refrigerated. Its effects on pigmentation are cumulative and can last for weeks after cessation of dosing due to the nature of melanin production and skin cell turnover.

Common Side Effects

Melanotan-2 use is associated with a range of acute and potential long-term side effects. The most common acute effects include:

• Facial Flushing: A reddening of the face and upper body shortly after injection.
• Nausea: A frequent and often dose-dependent side effect, especially during initial doses.
• Spontaneous Erections (Priapism): A well-documented effect due to activity on MC4R receptors.
• Increased Appetite Suppression: Can lead to reduced food intake.
• General Malaise and Yawning: Often reported during the initial phase.
• Darkening of Existing Moles and Freckles: A direct result of its melanogenic action.

More serious concerns include the potential for promoting the growth of existing melanomas (due to its action on melanocytes) and unexplained cases of kidney damage reported anecdotally. Its long-term safety profile is not established.

You can buy Melanotan-2 made by Apoxar in bulk in Canada via our website. Navigate to the “Purchase” tab and fill the contact form with details of your wholesale order. Please note: we do not sell single packs or ship directly to consumers, Apoxar is a wholesale fitness medication manufacturer and we work exclusively with our approved distributors.