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PeptideResearch Use OnlyPreclinical

Melanotan II

Regulatory

Legal Status in 2026

Research Use Only

No FDA approval for human use in the US; sold only as a research chemical.

This compound has no FDA approval for human use in the United States and is not available through licensed US pharmacies or compounding channels. It has not completed the clinical trials required for FDA approval. It may be sold online as a research chemical without quality controls, purity verification, or dosing standards. Always consult a physician.

About

About Melanotan II

Melanotan II (MT-II) is a synthetic analog of alpha-MSH that stimulates melanogenesis, causing skin tanning, and also acts as a potent sexual arousal agent. It was the precursor compound from which PT-141 (bremelanotide) was derived. While PT-141 is now FDA-approved for HSDD, MT-II remains an unregulated research peptide. Side effects include nausea, spontaneous erections, and potentially uneven pigmentation.

Science

Mechanism of Action

Non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist activating MC1R (melanogenesis), MC3R and MC4R (sexual arousal and energy balance), and MC5R — the broad receptor activation explains both its desired effects and side effect profile.

Dosing

Typical Protocol

0.5–1 mg subcutaneous injection prior to UV exposure for tanning; 0.5–1 mg for sexual function. Not FDA-approved.

⚠ Protocol information is for educational purposes only. Dosing must be determined by a licensed physician based on individual health status and goals.

Evidence

Evidence Tier

Preclinical

Evidence primarily from animal studies, cell cultures, or small pilot human trials. Results are promising but have not yet been confirmed in large-scale human RCTs. Effects in humans may differ from animal models.

Availability

Provider availability

Melanotan II has no FDA approval for human use and is not available through licensed US prescribing or compounding channels, so Vial does not list providers for it.

This page evaluates compliance signals, not clinical outcomes. Consult a licensed physician before starting any therapy, medication, or treatment. Vial does not provide medical advice.