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Vitality

Melanotan I

Melanotan I (Afamelanotide) is a synthetic analog of α-MSH acting on the MC1R receptor to stimulate melanogenesis. In research use it is the tanning-focused member of the Melanotan family — MC1R-selective and generally cleaner on libido/appetite side-effect profile than MT-II.

10 mg vialHalf-life: ~1 hour (parent) / effect persists via melanocyte activation1x daily (load) → 1x weekly (maintenance)Standard · ≤10 mg/mL
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Overview

Clinical Benefits
  • UV-independent melanogenesis (tan)
  • Photoprotection (research)
Administration

Subcutaneous injection

Drug class: melanocortin agonist

Clinical Dosing

Typical dosage
250-500mcg daily during load; 1mg weekly on maintenance
Starting dose
125mcg
Cadence
1x daily (load) → 1x weekly (maintenance)
Full titration schedule
PhaseDose
Day 1 (Trial dose)125mcg — assess nausea before continuing
Days 2-5250mcg once daily if Day 1 tolerated
Days 6-14 (Load)500mcg once daily
Week 3+ (Maintenance)1mg once weekly to preserve tan

Safety Profile

Side effects
  • • Nausea (mitigated by 125mcg start dose)
  • • Flushing
  • • Appetite suppression
  • • Increased mole / freckle pigmentation
Contraindications
  • • Melanoma history
  • • Active dysplastic nevi
  • • Pregnancy

Frequently asked questions

Melanotan I is most commonly researched for: UV-independent melanogenesis (tan), Photoprotection (research).

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Information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Peptides should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.

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