Melanotan II
MT-II / α-MSH analogue
Non-selective α-MSH analogue studied for tanning sexual function and appetite suppression. Parent compound of FDA-approved PT-141. Non-selectivity creates more side effects.
Mechanism of action
Non-selective melanocortin agonist targeting MC1R through MC5R receptors. MC1R activation drives melanin production for tanning effect. MC3R and MC4R activation drives sexual arousal same mechanism as PT-141. MC5R involved in exocrine gland function. Less selective than PT-141.
Effects in the body
PT-141 was literally derived from MT-II by engineering out the tanning effect and keeping the sexual function mechanism. MT-II does everything simultaneously — tan sexual response and appetite suppression — but the non-selectivity creates more pronounced side effects than its refined derivative.
Pros & cons (from the literature)
- Melanin-driven tan without UV exposure
- Sexual function effects same mechanism as PT-141
- Appetite suppression in animal models
- Long research history with well characterized pharmacology
- Non-selective — significantly more side effects than PT-141
- Nausea very common
- Spontaneous erections as side effect
- Darkening of existing moles — melanocyte activation risk
- RUO not approved or compoundable
Protocol summary (from published research)
Dosing ranges reproduced from published research literature. Not a prescription, not medical advice.
FDA & regulatory status
Evidence base
Extensive preclinical data. Led to PT-141 development and FDA approval. Mechanism well characterized. Superseded clinically by more selective PT-141.
Primary research sources
Peer-reviewed literature referenced throughout this profile is drawn from PubMed, Cell Metabolism, and clinical trial registries cited in the evidence base above.