7AA (cyclic) Limited Human
Melanotan 2
Synthetic cyclic melanocortin agonist that activates pigmentation, libido, and appetite pathways via MC1R/MC4R signalling.
In Plain English: Melanotan 2 is a synthetic cyclic peptide that mimics alpha-MSH. It binds to melanocortin receptors in the brain and skin, triggering melanin production for faster tanning, activating pathways linked to sexual arousal and erectile function, and suppressing appetite via MC4R signalling. It is unregistered for therapeutic use and carries meaningful safety risks.
Research Maturity
Limited Human (242 results on PubMed for 'melanotan II' (verified 2026-05-04)+ Studies)
Quick Facts
Focus
Pigmentation
Sexual Function
Skin / Photoprotection
Route
Intranasal
SubQ
Origin
Synthesised at University of Arizona in the late 1980s as a potency-optimised, cyclised analogue of endogenous alpha-MSH with D-Phe substitution at position 7 and lactam bridge cyclisation for metabolic stability.
Mechanism
Non-selective agonist of MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R. MC1R on melanocytes shifts pigment synthesis toward eumelanin. MC4R in hypothalamus suppresses appetite, increases energy expenditure, and drives erectogenic response via NO release. Activates mast cells via MRGPRB2, triggering histamine release.
Outcome
Accelerated skin tanning (dose-dependent eumelanin increase), spontaneous penile erection in 80-85% of men at 0.025 mg/kg, increased sexual desire in 68% vs 19% placebo, sustained body fat reduction in animal models.
Safety Flags & Warnings
Melanoma Risk in High-Risk Individuals
Priapism Risk
Cardiovascular / Thrombotic Risk
Nausea (>30% Incidence)
Mole / Nevus Changes
Always consult a licensed physician. Research purposes only.
€4.5 / mg
