Catalog
Non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist

Melanotan II

Banned in multiple countries; serious AEs including melanoma transformation reports.

Research-only / unregulatedGrade F — Misleading or false
Target
MC1R/MC3R/MC4R/MC5R

Mechanism of action

Non-selective MC agonist used for tanning, libido. Off-target MC1R drives melanogenesis.

Pharmacokinetics

SC; widely misused.

Clinical context

None — prohibited in EU/UK/Australia.

Safety

Contraindications
  • Any pigmented skin lesion history
  • Pregnancy
Adverse effects
  • New nevi / dysplastic change
  • Reports of melanoma in literature
  • Nausea, flushing, priapism
  • Rhabdomyolysis case reports

Covered in modules

Module 09
Melanocortins: PT-141 & Melanotan
Sex, tan, and centrally acting agonists.
Module 14
Safety, Regulation & Compounded Peptides
503A vs 503B vs research-only — what the FDA actually says.

Related compounds

GLP-1 receptor agonist
Semaglutide
Selective GH secretagogue (GHS-R agonist)
Ipamorelin
Long-acting GHRH analog
CJC-1295 (with/without DAC)
Synthetic pentadecapeptide (gastric origin)
BPC-157

Generate prescriber-grade deep dive

Pull in expanded mechanism, PK/PD, dosing strategies for special populations, drug interactions, monitoring cadence, head-to-head differentials, prescriber pearls, and patient FAQs for Melanotan II.

Educational reference. Not medical advice. Always verify against current FDA labeling and local regulatory guidance before prescribing or counseling.