Melanotan I
Also known as: Afamelanotide, Scenesse, MT-1, CUV1647
Key Facts: Melanotan I
- Category
- Skin & Hair
- FDA Status
- FDA Approved
- Clinical Status
- FDA Approved (2019) - Erythropoietic Protoporphyria
- Administration
- Subcutaneous implant (not injection)
- Typical Dose
- 500-1000 mcg daily (loading), then 500-1000 mcg 1-2x weekly (maintenance)
- Frequency
- Daily during loading (1-2 weeks), then 1-2x weekly maintenance
- Evidence Level
- FDA Approved
- Duration
- Long-term / as needed before sun season
What to Expect
A 13-amino acid synthetic analog of α-MSH that stimulates melanin production. FDA-approved (as Scenesse) for treating phototoxicity in patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). More selective than Melanotan II with fewer side effects.
Mechanism of Action
Melanotan I binds to melanocortin 1 receptors (MC1R) on melanocytes, stimulating eumelanin production. This increases skin pigmentation and provides photoprotection. Unlike MT-II, it has minimal affinity for MC3R and MC4R, resulting in fewer sexual and appetite-related side effects.
Research Summary
FDA approved in 2019 for EPP after successful Phase III trials showing significant increase in pain-free time in sunlight. Also studied for vitiligo, polymorphous light eruption, and solar urticaria. Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals developed and markets it as Scenesse.
Dosing Information
Typical Dosingⓘ
Community experience
500-1000 mcg daily (loading), then 500-1000 mcg 1-2x weekly (maintenance)
250-1000 mcg per injection
Daily during loading (1-2 weeks), then 1-2x weekly maintenance
Injected subcutaneously like MT-II. More selective than MT-II with fewer sexual side effects. Slower onset of tanning than MT-II. FDA version (Scenesse) is an implant for EPP patients only.
Research Dosingⓘ
Scientific studies
FDA-approved dosing for EPP
Doses from Studies
16 mg subcutaneous implant
Duration
Long-term / as needed before sun season
Administration
Subcutaneous implant (not injection)
Timing & Administration
Best Time to Take
Evening or before sun exposure
Daily during loading, then maintenance doses
Food Recommendation
With or without food
Why This Timing?
Similar to MT-II, evening use minimizes visible flushing. Pre-sun exposure maximizes tanning effect.
Possible Side Effects
Not everyone experiences these effects. Individual responses vary based on dosage, duration, and personal factors.
- ●Nausea (common)
- ●Skin darkening (intended effect)
- ●Headache
- ●Fatigue
- ●Injection site reactions
- ●FDA approved with known safety profile
References
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Educational Information Only
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers before making any decisions about peptides or other substances. The protocols listed reflect doses observed in research studies, not recommendations.