Melanotan I (MT-I) Reference Guide

Compound Reference Overview

Field Value
Name Melanotan I (Afamelanotide)
Reference Code MT-I
Category Tanning / Melanocortin Analog
Example Strength 10 mg vial
Reference Range 0.5–1 mg daily during loading
Frequency Daily during loading; weekly maintenance
Key Safety Warning Contraindicated in melanoma or strong family history of melanoma. May darken existing moles and stimulate new nevi. Regular dermatologic monitoring is essential.

Mechanism of Action (Educational)

Melanotan I is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It binds to melanocortin receptors (primarily MC1R) on melanocytes, stimulating eumelanin production.

Increased melanin production enhances pigmentation and provides partial photoprotection against ultraviolet radiation.

Unlike Melanotan II, Melanotan I has minimal sexual or central melanocortin receptor effects.

Indications (Regulatory / Off-Label)

  • FDA-approved (implant form – Scenesse / Afamelanotide): Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP)
  • Off-label: Vitiligo research
  • Off-label: Cosmetic tanning

Administration (Research Context)

Parameter Details
Route Subcutaneous
Frequency Daily during loading; weekly during maintenance
Injection Sites Abdomen
Timing Any time; often prior to sun exposure

Titration Schedule (Common Research Framework)

  • Weeks 1–2: 0.5 mg daily (loading)
  • Weeks 3–4: 0.5–1 mg daily
  • Week 5+: 0.5 mg weekly maintenance

Dermatologic evaluation recommended before initiation.

Pharmacokinetics (Literature)

  • Onset: ~30 minutes
  • Visible tanning: typically within 1–2 weeks
  • Duration dependent on maintenance schedule

Reconstitution & Concentration
(Mathematical Illustration Only)

Parameter Value
Diluent Bacteriostatic water
Reconstitution Volume 2 mL
Resulting Concentration 5 mg/mL
Stability 28 days refrigerated

Reconstitution Math Example

  • 10 mg ÷ 2 mL = 5 mg/mL
  • 0.1 mL = 0.5 mg
  • 0.2 mL = 1 mg

Provided strictly for arithmetic reference only.

Mathematical Calculation Tool

The calculator below allows concentration and volume calculations based on vial strength and dilution volume. This tool is provided strictly for mathematical reference.

Peptide Reconstitution Calculator

For Educational & Professional Reference Only

⚠️ This is a mathematical reference tool only. No medical or dosing advice is provided.

Safety & Contraindications (Summary)

Contraindications

  • Melanoma or family history of melanoma
  • Multiple atypical nevi
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding

Drug Interactions

  • Photosensitizing medications (moderate): may alter sun response

Adverse Events

  • Nausea
  • Facial flushing
  • Injection site reactions
  • Mole darkening

Serious Risks

  • Potential melanoma risk (theoretical concern)
  • New or changing nevi

Monitoring (Clinical Framework)

  • Regular dermatologic examinations
  • Monitoring for new or changing moles
  • Assessment of lesion evolution

Disclaimer

Melanotan I (Afamelanotide) is FDA-approved in implant form for EPP. Injectable compounded forms are not FDA-approved for tanning. This content is provided strictly for educational and professional reference purposes. All clinical decisions must be made by a licensed healthcare professional.

Reference Sources