Melanotan II (MT-II) Reference Guide

Compound Reference Overview

Field Value
Name Melanotan II
Reference Code MT-II
Category Melanocortin Receptor Agonist (Investigational / Not FDA-Approved)
Example Strength 10 mg vial (common research vial strength)
Reference Range 0.25 mg – 1.0 mg (reported in off-label / research use)
Frequency Daily during loading; maintenance PRN (reported patterns; not standardized)
Key Safety Warning High-Risk Dermatologic Concern: May darken existing moles and stimulate new pigmented lesions. Not FDA-approved. Avoid in melanoma history or multiple atypical nevi. May cause nausea and sexual side effects (increased libido / spontaneous erections). Regular dermatologic monitoring is recommended.

Mechanism of Action (Educational)

Melanotan II is a synthetic cyclic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It activates melanocortin receptors, including MC1R on melanocytes (increasing melanin production) and central melanocortin pathways that may influence appetite and sexual function.

Compared with Melanotan I, Melanotan II is commonly described as more centrally active, which may explain the higher frequency of nausea and libido-related effects reported in off-label use.

Indications (Off-Label / Research)

  • Skin tanning / pigmentation enhancement
  • Photoprotection research
  • Off-label libido / erectile function effects (centrally mediated; not an approved indication)
  • Appetite modulation research

Administration (Research Context)

Parameter Details
Route Subcutaneous
Frequency Daily during loading; maintenance as needed
Injection Sites Abdomen (rotate sites)
Timing Evening is commonly reported to reduce impact of nausea

Titration Schedule (Common Non-Standardized Framework)

  • Week 1: 0.25 mg for first 1–2 doses (test dose)
  • Weeks 2–4: 0.5 mg daily (loading)
  • Week 5+: 0.5 mg PRN prior to sun exposure (maintenance)

These schedules are not standardized and are provided strictly as literature-style reference formatting.

Pharmacokinetics (Reported)

  • Onset: ~30–60 minutes (reported)
  • Visible tanning: typically within 1–2 weeks (reported)

Reconstitution & Concentration
(Mathematical Illustration Only)

The following example applies only to research/compounded presentations and is provided strictly for arithmetic reference.

Parameter Value
Diluent Bacteriostatic water (example only)
Reconstitution Volume 2 mL (example only)
Resulting Concentration 5 mg/mL
Stability Up to 28 days refrigerated (varies by formulation/standards)

Reconstitution Math Example

  • 10 mg ÷ 2 mL = 5 mg/mL
  • 0.05 mL = 0.25 mg
  • 0.10 mL = 0.5 mg
  • 0.20 mL = 1.0 mg

Provided strictly for arithmetic reference only.

Mathematical Calculation Tool

The calculator below allows mathematical concentration and volume calculations using variable vial strengths and reconstitution volumes. This tool is provided strictly for arithmetic 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
  • Significant cardiovascular disease (caution due to reported BP effects)

Drug Interactions

  • PDE5 inhibitors (moderate): additive erectile effects; use caution

Adverse Events

  • Nausea (common, especially early)
  • Facial flushing
  • Injection site reactions
  • Increased libido / spontaneous erections
  • Mole darkening
  • Appetite suppression

Serious Risks

  • Blood pressure changes
  • Priapism (rare)
  • Dermatologic risk concern: new or changing nevi

Monitoring (Clinical Framework)

  • Dermatologic evaluation before use and periodic skin exams
  • Monitor for new or changing moles / lesions
  • Monitor blood pressure if symptomatic

Disclaimer

Melanotan II is not FDA-approved. This content is provided strictly as a pharmacologic and mathematical reference for educational and professional purposes. It does not constitute medical advice, prescribing guidance, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. All clinical decisions must be made by a licensed healthcare professional in accordance with applicable regulations.

Reference Sources