Melanotan-2
A synthetic melanocortin receptor agonist that stimulates melanogenesis for UV-independent tanning with additional effects on libido and appetite.
Melanotan-2 (MT-2) is a synthetic cyclic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone developed at the University of Arizona. It activates melanocortin receptors MC1R through MC5R, producing broad effects including skin darkening (MC1R), sexual arousal (MC3R/MC4R), and appetite suppression (MC4R). While it effectively promotes tanning with reduced UV exposure, it is not approved by the FDA and carries notable safety concerns.
⚙️ Mechanism of Action
Melanotan-2 binds to MC1 receptors on melanocytes, stimulating the production of eumelanin pigment through activation of the cAMP/PKA pathway. Its non-selective binding to MC3R and MC4R in the hypothalamus triggers secondary effects on sexual arousal and appetite regulation. The tanning effect is cumulative over multiple doses, with melanin persisting in the skin for weeks after discontinuation as the pigment is naturally shed with skin turnover.
✅ Benefits
- •Promotes skin tanning with reduced UV exposure
- •May increase libido in both men and women
- •Appetite suppression effects
- •Protective melanin production may reduce UV damage risk
⚠️ Risks & Considerations
- •Nausea and facial flushing (common)
- •Spontaneous erections in males
- •Darkening of existing moles (requires monitoring)
- •Fatigue and yawning
- •Risk of rhabdomyolysis in rare cases
📚 References
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