Melanotan I

Afamelanotide (Melanotan I)

Healing

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Mechanism of Action

Melanotan I (Afamelanotide) is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) that selectively binds to melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R). Unlike Melanotan II, it has high selectivity for MC1R, stimulating eumelanin production in melanocytes without significant activation of MC3R/MC4R receptors. This leads to increased melanin synthesis and photoprotection without the sexual side effects associated with Melanotan II.

Primary Benefits

  • ✓Increased eumelanin production and skin darkening
  • ✓Enhanced photoprotection against UV damage
  • ✓Reduced risk of UV-induced DNA damage
  • ✓Potential neuroprotective effects via MC1R signaling
  • ✓Anti-inflammatory properties

Common Uses

  • •Photoprotection research
  • •Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) studies
  • •Skin pigmentation disorders
  • •UV damage prevention research

Side Effects

  • ⚠Nausea (usually transient)
  • ⚠Facial flushing
  • ⚠Mild headache
  • ⚠Darkening of moles and freckles
  • ⚠Injection site reactions

Contraindications

  • ✕History of melanoma or dysplastic nevi
  • ✕Pregnancy and breastfeeding
  • ✕Known hypersensitivity to melanocortins
  • ✕Severe hepatic impairment

Dosage Protocols

LevelAmountFrequencyTiming
Beginner0.5 mgEvery other dayLoading phase for 2-3 weeks
Standard1 mgEvery other dayLoading phase, then maintenance 1-2x per week
Advanced1-1.5 mgDaily during loading, then twice weeklyBefore UV exposure for enhanced protection

Cycle Duration

Loading phase 2-4 weeks, maintenance ongoing as needed

Half-Life

Approximately 30 minutes

Reconstitution Instructions

Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water, swirl gently

Storage Requirements

Unreconstituted (Powder):

Store at 36-46°F or freeze, protect from light

Reconstituted:

Refrigerate at 36-46°F, use within 21 days

Research & Literature

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Research Disclaimer: These links lead to external research databases. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions based on research literature.

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For Research Purposes Only

This information is provided for educational and research purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendation. Consult a licensed healthcare professional before using any peptide. BioProtocol does not sell peptides or pharmaceutical products.