Melanotan I
Also known as: Afamelanotide, CUV1647, Scenesse (FDA-approved formulation)
Also known as Afamelanotide, this melanocortin receptor agonist induces skin pigmentation and provides photoprotection. FDA-approved for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) under the brand name Scenesse.
Beginner Basics
Plain-English guide to Melanotan I
What it does
This peptide signals your body to produce more melanin, which is the pigment that darkens your skin and protects it from UV damage. Researchers study it because it can create a tan-like effect and may reduce sun sensitivity.
Typical dose
Researchers commonly use 0.5 to 1 mg injected under the skin once daily, starting at the lower dose and adjusting based on how much pigmentation develops.
When to inject
Any time of day works, but pick the same time each day so you can track your results consistently.
Storage
Keep the powder in the freezer at -20°C until you mix it. After mixing with liquid, store it in the refrigerator between 2-8°C and keep it away from light.
First-timer tip
Start with the lowest dose (0.5 mg) and give it time-pigmentation changes take 1-2 weeks to show, so resist the urge to increase the dose too quickly.
On This Page
Research Status
Extensive Clinical Data
For research purposes only. Not approved for human use. Not medical advice.
Research Areas
Side Effects
Occurs in a small percentage of users, typically within the first few hours after injection. Usually self-resolving. Taking the injection with food or at bedtime may reduce incidence. Afamelanotide has a lower incidence of nausea compared to Melanotan II due to MC1R selectivity.
Transient redness or warmth in the face, typically occurring within 1–2 hours of injection and resolving within 30 minutes to 2 hours. More common at higher doses or in individuals with fair skin.
Localized redness, warmth, or mild swelling at the injection site, typically resolving within 24 hours. Minimize by rotating injection sites, allowing the solution to reach room temperature, and using proper injection technique. Apply ice if needed.
Mild itching at the injection site, usually transient. Avoid scratching to prevent skin damage. Antihistamine cream may provide relief if bothersome.
Mild headache reported in a small percentage of users, typically occurring within hours of injection and resolving within 24 hours. Hydration and over-the-counter analgesics may help.
Afamelanotide stimulates melanin production systemically, which may darken pre-existing moles and freckles. This is expected and generally reversible upon discontinuation. Users with numerous or atypical moles should consult a dermatologist before use and undergo baseline skin examination.
Rare in users of afamelanotide due to MC1R selectivity; more common with non-selective melanocortin agonists like Melanotan II. If occurs, typically self-resolving and not requiring intervention.
Rare with afamelanotide due to MC1R selectivity; MC3R and MC4R agonism (which afamelanotide minimally engages) are responsible for appetite effects seen with non-selective melanocortin agonists.
In erythropoietic protoporphyria patients, afamelanotide is used specifically to reduce phototoxic reactions. However, inadequate melanin induction or continued high UV exposure may still trigger reactions. Requires medical evaluation and adjustment of sun protection strategies.
Rare but possible; may include urticaria, angioedema, or anaphylaxis. Seek immediate medical attention if signs of allergy develop (difficulty breathing, throat tightness, severe rash). Discontinue use immediately.
Dosing Reference
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose range | 0.5-1 mg |
Frequency, timing and route - members only | |
Research disclaimer
Figures drawn from published research literature and community logs. Not clinical recommendations. Consult a qualified professional. Research use only.
Reconstitution Guide
Do not use saline or bacteriostatic saline, use only bacteriostatic water for reconstitution
Do not shake the vial vigorously; gentle swirling prevents peptide degradation
Discard immediately if the solution appears cloudy, discolored, or contains visible particles
Use within 30 days of reconstitution when stored at 2-8°C
Do not freeze the reconstituted solution; freezing may denature the peptide
Use the PeptideVolt reconstitution calculator for your exact concentration
Molecular and Pharmacological Data
| Molecular weight | 1817.9 Da |
| Half-life | Approximately 2–3 hours (in vivo); longer tissue retention due to MC1R binding |
| Sequence | Members only |
Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a selective melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) agonist that mimics alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Upon binding to MC1R on melanocytes, it triggers a signaling cascade that increases intracellular cAMP, leading to upregulation of tyrosinase and enhanced melanin synthesis and transfer to keratinocytes. This results in increased skin pigmentation and provides photoprotection by increasing the eumelanin (protective pigment) content of the skin, reducing UV-induced DNA damage and apoptosis.
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