Melanotan-1 10mg

1. What is  Melanotan1?

Melanotan-1, also known as afamelanotide, is a synthetic peptide that mimics the natural hormone alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It works by stimulating melanocytes in the skin to produce more melanin, leading to a darker skin tone. Its primary medical use is in treating erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a rare disorder that causes extreme sensitivity to sunlight. By increasing melanin levels, Melanotan-1 helps improve the skin’s natural protection against UV radiation. Unlike Melanotan II, it has a more targeted action and fewer side effects.

2.  Melanotan1 Structure

Molecular Formula：C78H111N21O19

Molecular Weight：1646.85g/mol

CAS Number：75921-69-6

3. Melanotan1 Research

Melanotan1 (MT1/Afamelanotide) is a synthetic analog of αMSH (alphamelanocyte-stimulating hormone), engineered for increased receptor affinity and longer plasma half-life, enabling potent skin tanning with minimal sun exposure .

【1】 Mechanism of Action

Acts primarily on MC1R receptors on melanocytes to boost eumelanin production, offering UV protection and reduced erythema .

Also engages MC3R/MC4R/MC5R, potentially influencing appetite, sexual function, and immune modulation .

【2】Pharmacokinetics & Human Trials

Subcutaneous dosing shows effective absorption (absorption t₁/₂: 0.8–1.7 h; beta phase: 0.07–0.79 h), with sustained pigmentation lasting 3+ weeks after a 10-dose regimen【https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9113347/】.

Phase I human studies (AZ, 0.08–0.16 mg/kg with UV exposure) demonstrated faster, deeper tanning and 47% fewer sunburn cells, with minimal side effects (nausea, flushing) 【https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15262693/】.

【3】 Clinical Uses in Photosensitivity Disorders

Shows promise for actinic keratoses, prevention of squamous cell carcinoma, and disorders like erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) and polymorphic light eruption.

Notably used under the brand name Scenesse (afamelanotide) in the EU/US for EPP, offering monthly subcutaneous implants to enhance UV tolerance 【https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Afamelanotide?utm_source=chatgpt.com】.

✅ Why Consider Melanotan1?

Sunless, sustained tanning with protective eumelanin increase

Reduces sunburn risk and UV damage indicators

Helps manage photosensitivity disorders, improving patient quality of life

Minimal side effects: only occasional flushing, nausea

Implant format (Scenesse) offers monthly dosing convenience

Emerging evidence for anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects

4. Future Melanotan1 Research

A. Cancer Prevention & Photoprotection

Exploring chemopreventive effects for skin cancer, leveraging melanin’s photoprotective properties 【https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3394601/?utm_source=chatgpt.com】

B. Autoimmune & Anti-inflammatory Potential

As MC1R agonists modulate inflammation and innate immunity, MT1 is being investigated for IBD, rheumatoid arthritis, and dermatitis【https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10265466/?utm_source=chatgpt.com】.

C. Sexual & Appetite Effects

Original studies with MT2 showed aphrodisiac and appetite-suppressing effects; ongoing efforts aim to isolate analogs maintaining tanning while minimizing hormonal side effects.

D. Machine-Delivered Photoprotection

Novel implantable or depot formulations, including patch systems, are being tested to ensure long-term, controlled melanin induction【https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Afamelanotide?utm_source=chatgpt.com】.

E. Safety & Regulatory Trials

Continuous pharmacovigilance for mole/nevi changes, potential melanoma risk, and long-term safety .

5. Application Area

Dermatology & Cosmetic Tanning: Controlled pigmentation with UV safety benefits

Photosensitivity Treatment: EPP, polymorphic light eruption, actinic keratoses, porphyria

UV Damage Prevention: Reduction in sunburn and photodamage

Immunomodulation Research: Potential in chronic inflammatory conditions

Neuroendocrine Investigations: Appetite, libido, and systemic hormonal effects

✅ Summary

Melanotan1, especially as afamelanotide (Scenesse), offers a science-backed method for safe pigmentation, UV protection, and management of rare skin disorders. It stands distinct from unregulated market agents in its clinically tested, implantable form. Although off-label and over-the-counter versions exist, concerns remain about product purity, side effects, and legal status .

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The products offered on this website are furnished for in-vitro studies only. In-vitro studies(Latin: in glass) are performed outside of the body. These products are not medicines or drugs and have not been approved by the FDA to prevent, treat or cure any medical condition, ailment or disease. Bodily introduction of any kind into humans or animals is strictly forbidden by law.