Melanotan II
Melanotan II (MT-2) is a brutally potent alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) analog originally designed to prevent UV-induced skin cancer. Widely infamous as the "Barbie Drug," it aggressively forces melanogenesis—creating deep, protective pigmentation with absolute minimal UV exposure. Beyond intense photoprotection, it is a highly volatile, multi-receptor peptide that notoriously triggers immediate, involuntary erections, intense nausea, and powerful appetite suppression, making its dosing curve notoriously difficult to navigate.
Quick Stats
Scientific Data
Mechanism of Action
Melanotan II (MT-2) is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) that activates multiple melanocortin receptors. MC1R activation stimulates melanocytes to produce melanin, resulting in skin darkening (tanning) without UV exposure. MC3R/MC4R activation produces sexual arousal effects (the pathway that led to PT-141 development) and appetite suppression.
MT-2 is a non-selective melanocortin agonist, which means it produces multiple effects simultaneously: tanning, sexual function enhancement, and modest appetite reduction. The tanning effect is cumulative and persists for weeks to months after discontinuation.
Source: PMID: 10221658
Background & History
Melanotan II (MT-2) was developed at the University of Arizona in the 1980s–90s by Mac Hadley and colleagues seeking a method to induce melanogenesis without UV exposure for skin cancer prevention. It is a cyclic analog of alpha-MSH with 1000× greater potency than natural α-MSH at MC1R. Serendipitously, researchers discovered its potent sexual arousal and appetite suppression effects via MC4R activation. It has never received regulatory approval and is considered a research compound.
Research Use Cases
- ✓Tanning/melanogenesis without UV radiation
- ✓Erectile dysfunction and sexual arousal (via MC4R)
- ✓Appetite suppression for weight management
Dosing Protocol
| Typical Dose | 250-500 mcg/day (loading) |
| Frequency | Daily (loading 2 weeks), then 1-2×/week maintenance |
| Half-Life | ~1 hour |
| Common Vial Sizes | 10 mg |
Dosing Protocols
Loading Phase
Maintenance Phase
Body-Weight Dosing Reference
Estimated doses extrapolated from the published research range of 250–500 mcg/day (referenced to 70 kg / 154 lb). These are approximations — consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised guidance.
| Weight | Low Dose | Target Dose | High Dose |
|---|---|---|---|
| 120 lb(54 kg) | 193 mcg | 289 mcg | 386 mcg |
| 140 lb(63 kg) | 225 mcg | 338 mcg | 450 mcg |
| 160 lb(73 kg) | 261 mcg | 391 mcg | 521 mcg |
| 180 lb(82 kg) | 293 mcg | 439 mcg | 586 mcg |
| 200 lb(91 kg) | 325 mcg | 488 mcg | 650 mcg |
| 220 lb(100 kg) | 357 mcg | 536 mcg | 714 mcg |
| 250 lb(113 kg) | 404 mcg | 605 mcg | 807 mcg |
💉 For exact syringe units based on your vial concentration, use the Melanotan II Reconstitution Calculator →
Administration
Expected Timeline
Who Is It For?
Skin Tanning
HighStrong melanin production with or without UV. Tan persists after cycle ends.
Sexual Function Enhancement
ModerateMC4R activation produces arousal effects — the pathway that led to development of PT-141.
Reconstitution Example
Safety & Considerations
Research peptide — not FDA-approved. Monitor existing moles for changes. Common: nausea (loading phase), facial flushing, spontaneous erections (males). Not for use with history of melanoma.
Regulatory & Legal Status
Not currently on the WADA 2026 Prohibited List. Policies may change — verify before competition.
Research Chemical
US Compounding: Not eligible / not available
⚠️ This information is for educational purposes only and may not reflect the most current regulatory updates. Always verify with official FDA, WADA, and jurisdiction-specific sources before use.
Interactions & Contraindications
MC1R activation causes mole darkening and new nevus formation — regular dermatological monitoring essential. Nausea common especially at higher doses. Spontaneous erections in men at standard doses. Do not use with cardiovascular disease. Use cautiously in patients with history of melanoma — theoretical risk of activating dormant melanocytes.
Synergies & Common Stacks
PT-141 is a more selective MC4R agonist derived from MT-2 with reduced melanogenic side effects — often preferred over MT-2 for pure sexual function goals.
Dosing Quick Reference
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Melanotan II loading phase work?▼
Do I still need sun exposure with Melanotan II?▼
Is Melanotan II the same as Melanotan I?▼
References
- Wessells H et al. “"Melanotan II: a review of the clinical and experimental findings".” International Journal of Impotence Research (2000). PMID: 10893508
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