Peptipedia
Skin & HairFDA ApprovedFDA Approved

Melanotan I

Also known as Afamelanotide, Scenesse, MT-1, CUV1647

A 13-amino acid synthetic analog of α-MSH that stimulates melanin production. FDA approved for erythropoietic protoporphyria. Unlike MT-II, minimal affinity for MC3R and MC4R.

FDA Approved (2019) - Erythropoietic Protoporphyria
CompareFind Vendors

Regulatory Pathway

Preclinical
Phase I
Phase II
Phase III
Phase IV
Approved

Dosing Protocol

Typical Dose

500-1000 mcg daily (loading), 500-1000 mcg 1-2x weekly (maintenance)

Frequency

Daily during loading (1-2 weeks), then 1-2x weekly maintenance

Duration

Long-term / as needed before sun season

Community-reported dosing. Individual results vary. Not a medical recommendation.
Typical community protocol: 500-1000 mcg daily (loading), 500-1000 mcg 1-2x weekly (maintenance) via Subcutaneous implant (FDA version); subcutaneous injection (off-label), Daily during loading (1-2 weeks), then 1-2x weekly maintenance. Dose range: 250-1000 mcg per injection. Duration: Long-term / as needed before sun season.

Timing & Administration

Administer via Subcutaneous implant (FDA version); subcutaneous injection (off-label). Frequency: Daily during loading (1-2 weeks), then 1-2x weekly maintenance.

Mechanism of Action

Binds to melanocortin 1 receptors (MC1R) on melanocytes, stimulating eumelanin synthesis. Unlike MT-II, has minimal affinity for MC3R and MC4R, resulting in fewer sexual and appetite-related side effects.

Research Summary

Evidence level: fda approved. Clinical status: FDA Approved (2019) - Erythropoietic Protoporphyria.

Side Effects & Safety

Important Warnings

  • FDA-approved version uses implant form
  • Off-label injection use is not approved.
Nausea (common)
skin darkening (intended)
headache
fatigue
injection site reactions

References

No references available.

Related Peptides

Browse all →
GHK-CuSkin & Hair

A naturally occurring copper-binding peptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. Widely used in skincare for its wound healing and anti-aging properties.

View profile
SNAP-8Skin & Hair

A cosmetic peptide that reduces wrinkles by inhibiting muscle contraction. Studies show up to 63% reduction in wrinkle depth over 28 days.

View profile
ArgirelineSkin & Hair

A popular cosmetic peptide that reduces facial wrinkles by inhibiting neurotransmitter release. Studies show 30% reduction in wrinkle depth after 30 days.

View profile