Melanotan I
Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a synthetic linear analogue of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) that binds melanocortin-1 receptors (MC1R) in melanocytes, stimulating eumelanin synthesis. It is approved in Europe and Australia as Scenesse for erythropoietic protoporphyria. Unlike Melanotan II, it does not cross the blood-brain barrier appreciably, resulting in fewer central side effects.
Topical effects build gradually over weeks of consistent use.
Topical and cosmetic formulations: store per the product directions, typically cool and away from light; follow any beyond-use date.
Clinical Evidence
What the literature says
Scientific Overview
A synthetic analogue of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It is FDA approved as Scenesse.
Pharmacokinetics
- Half-life (t½)
- 1.5 h
- Approximate plasma half-life
- Routes
- Subcutaneous
Citations (6)
- Risks of unregulated use of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone analogues: a reviewPubMed 2017
- Skin pigmentation and pharmacokinetics of melanotan-I in humansPubMed
- Afamelanotide and narrowband UV-B phototherapy for the treatment of vitiligo: a randomized multicenter trialPubMed
- Systemic photoprotection in solar urticaria with α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone analogue [Nle4-D-Phe7]-α-MSHPubMed
- Risks of unregulated use of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone analogues: a reviewPubMed
- Effects of a superpotent melanotropic peptide in combination with solar UV radiation on tanning of the skin in human volunteersPubMed
Last reviewed: 2026-05-09
Research Guide
How users approach this compound
The following reflects patterns observed in research literature and community protocols. This is not medical advice and does not constitute a clinical recommendation.
Typical Dose Range Observed
Research Protocols
Common DosagesPhoto-protection
“Lower side effect profile than MT2”
Dosages listed are common research protocols found in peer-reviewed literature and clinical trials. Individual results and requirements may vary significantly in a research context.
Reported Uses
- Approved (Scenesse) for prevention of phototoxicity in adults with erythropoietic protoporphyria
- Studied for photoprotection via increased skin melanization
- Investigated for vitiligo and other conditions characterized by impaired melanogenesis
Key Research Benefits
- Sunless tanning
- UV protection
- Phototoxicity reduction
Potential Side Effects
Considerations and Cautions
- Requires dermatological monitoring for melanocytic nevi
- Not approved for cosmetic tanning; only for EPP indication under approved labeling
Labs to monitor
Educational context only, not a testing mandate. Any bloodwork decisions belong with your clinician.
- No validated compound-specific markers: No standard bloodwork is established for this compound; general safety labs (CBC, comprehensive metabolic panel) are reasonable if used under medical supervision.
Dose Calculator
Peptide Reconstitution Calculator
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Melanotan I by goal
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Not medical advice
Information on DoseVault is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare provider.