Melanotan II — Vendor Pricing & Purity Guide
Research Overview
Melanotan II (MT-II) is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), originally developed at the University of Arizona in the 1990s as a potential sunless tanning agent. It is a non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist, activating MC1R through MC5R, which produces a broad range of effects: skin pigmentation (tanning), appetite suppression, increased sexual arousal, and modulation of inflammatory responses.
MT-II works by binding to melanocortin-1 receptors (MC1R) in melanocytes, stimulating melanin production and transfer to keratinocytes — the same process triggered by UV exposure, but without requiring sun exposure. This "sunless tanning" effect made it widely popular, though it has never received FDA approval for any indication. The sexual arousal side effect (via MC4R activation) led to the development of PT-141/Bremelanotide as a focused therapeutic.
MT-II remains one of the most commercially popular research peptides despite safety concerns. It can permanently darken existing moles and freckles, and there are case reports of it triggering melanocytic changes. Researchers should be aware of its non-selective receptor profile and broad systemic effects.
Key Research Findings
- •Produced significant skin darkening (tanning) without UV exposure in human clinical studies (Dorr et al., 1996)
- •Demonstrated potent appetite-suppressing effects through MC4R activation in multiple animal models
- •Caused spontaneous erections and increased sexual arousal in male subjects — leading to PT-141 development
- •Provided photoprotective effects by increasing melanin before UV exposure, potentially reducing DNA damage
- •Non-selective MCR activation means broad systemic effects: pigmentation, libido, appetite, inflammation
- •Case reports of mole darkening and new nevi formation — melanocytic monitoring recommended in research settings
Research Dosage Protocols
MT-II is typically supplied as lyophilized powder and reconstituted with bacteriostatic water. In published research, it has been administered via subcutaneous injection.
Research protocols commonly describe a "loading phase" approach with doses of 0.25-0.5 mg administered daily for 1-2 weeks, followed by less frequent "maintenance" dosing. Effects on pigmentation are cumulative and can persist for weeks to months after discontinuation.
Researchers should note that MT-II has a broader side effect profile than more selective melanocortin peptides. Common observations include nausea (especially at initial doses), facial flushing, and fatigue. The non-selective receptor activity means it affects multiple systems simultaneously.
For research reference only. Not medical advice. Not for human consumption.
Published Research (1 studies)
- [1]Evaluation of melanotan-II, a superpotent cyclic melanotropic peptide in a phase I clinical trial— Dorr et al., 1996PMID: 8988275
Links go to PubMed (NIH National Library of Medicine). PeptideVerdict is not affiliated with these studies.
Price Comparison (14 products from 10 vendors)
| Vendor | Price | Stock |
|---|---|---|
| Polaris Peptides | $45.00 $2.65/mg 17mg lyophilized | Out |
| Peptide Crafters | $30.00 $3.00/mg 10mg lyophilized | Out |
| Swiss Chems | $34.95 $3.50/mg 10mg vial | In Stock |
| Paradigm Peptides | $35.00 $3.50/mg 10mg lyophilized | In Stock |
| Triumphant Labs | $38.00 $3.80/mg 10mg | In Stock |
| Core Peptides | $41.00 $4.10/mg 10mg vial | In Stock |
| Particle Peptides | $41.99 $4.20/mg 10mg lyophilized | In Stock |
| Peptide Sciences | $50.00 $5.00/mg 10mg lyophilized | In Stock |
| Triumphant Labs | $323.00 $32.30/mg 10mg | In Stock |
| Peptide Sciences | $140.00 $46.67/mg 3mg lyophilized | In Stock |
| Soma Chems | $54.99 spray | In Stock |
| Soma Chems | $39.99 vial | In Stock |
| Simple Peptide | $96.99 lyophilized | In Stock |
| Simple Peptide | $38.00 lyophilized | In Stock |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Melanotan II?
Melanotan II is a synthetic analog of the natural hormone α-MSH that stimulates melanin production (tanning) without UV exposure. It also affects appetite, sexual arousal, and inflammation through non-selective melanocortin receptor activation.
Is Melanotan II safe?
MT-II has not been FDA-approved and has known risks including mole darkening, new nevi formation, nausea, and blood pressure changes. Its non-selective receptor profile means it affects multiple body systems. Case reports of melanocytic changes warrant caution.
What is the difference between Melanotan I and Melanotan II?
Melanotan I (Afamelanotide) is a linear peptide selective for MC1R (tanning only). Melanotan II is cyclic and non-selective, affecting MC1R-MC5R (tanning + libido + appetite + other effects). MT-I is FDA-approved for erythropoietic protoporphyria; MT-II has no approvals.
Where can I buy Melanotan II for research?
MT-II is available from research peptide vendors. Compare pricing in the table above. Ensure COA verification for purity, as MT-II quality varies between suppliers.