Description

Melanotan II (MT-II) is a synthetic cyclic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) that was originally developed at the University of Arizona in the 1980s as a potential sunless tanning agent. It activates multiple melanocortin receptors (MC1R, MC3R, MC4R) with broad potency, producing a constellation of effects: increased melanin production (tanning without UV exposure), appetite suppression, enhanced sexual function and libido, and reduced body fat. Melanotan II is the precursor from which PT-141 (bremelanotide) was derived — PT-141 was developed to retain the sexual function benefits while reducing the tanning and other side effects. MT-II has a broader receptor profile than PT-141 and produces more pronounced tanning effects, but also has a higher side effect burden. It is not FDA-approved and is classified as a research chemical.

Key Characteristics

Investigated Benefits

* Benefits based on preclinical/animal research unless otherwise noted.