Melanotan II (10 mg Vial) Dosage Protocol
Melanotan II (MT-II) is a synthetic cyclic analog of alpha-MSH (alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone). It acts as a non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist (MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R), producing skin darkening (tanning without UV), reduced appetite, and sexual arousal effects. Distinct from PT-141 (which is a more selective MC3/4R agonist).
⚡ Quickstart Highlights
Dosing & Reconstitution Guide
Route: Subcutaneous | Frequency: Daily loading, then maintenance
| Phase | Dose | U-100 Units | Volume | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loading (daily) | 0.5 mg | 10 units | 0.10 mL | 1–2 weeks |
| Maintenance (every 2–3 days) | 0.5–1.0 mg | 10–20 units | 0.10–0.20 mL | As needed |
| Low-sensitivity start | 0.25 mg | 5 units | 0.05 mL | First injection; assess nausea |
Reconstitution Steps
- Draw 2.0 mL bacteriostatic water into a sterile syringe.
- Inject slowly down the inside glass wall of the vial; avoid foaming.
- Gently swirl until dissolved. Do not shake.
- Label with reconstitution date. Refrigerate at 2–8°C; use within 28 days.
Supplies Planning
| Item | Loading Phase (2 wks) | Ongoing (monthly) |
|---|---|---|
| Melanotan II vials (10 mg) | 2 vials | 1–2 vials/month |
| Insulin syringes (30–50 unit) | 14 | 12–16 |
| Bacteriostatic water (10 mL) | 1 × 10 mL | 1 × 10 mL/2 vials |
| Alcohol swabs | shared | shared |
Mechanism of Action
Melanotan II is a cyclic lactam analog of alpha-MSH with a structural modification (cyclic 4–10 fragment with Nle4 and D-Phe7 substitutions) that makes it resistant to enzymatic degradation and provides substantially higher receptor potency than natural alpha-MSH. It is a non-selective agonist at MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R.
MC1R activation in melanocytes stimulates melanin production and release, producing skin darkening without UV exposure (though UV exposure amplifies the effect). MC4R activation in the hypothalamus suppresses appetite and drives sexual arousal effects (the same mechanism as PT-141, though MT-II is less selective). MC3R and MC5R activation contributes to additional metabolic and sebaceous gland effects. The broader receptor profile of MT-II compared to PT-141 produces more pronounced side effects — particularly nausea (from area postrema MC receptors) and appetite suppression.
Research Findings & Safety Profile
- Potent melanocortin tanning response: MC1R activation produces melanin synthesis without UV exposure.
- Appetite suppression: MC4R agonism reduces food intake in animal models and human subjects.
- Sexual arousal effects via MC4R — mechanism shared with PT-141 but less selective.
- High nausea incidence (area postrema MC receptor activation) — especially on first injections at higher doses.
- Facial flushing is common (30 min post-injection) — transient vasodilation response.
- Concerns: non-selective receptor activation profile; potential for abnormal mole growth/changes with chronic use — skin monitoring recommended.
Storage
| State | Temperature | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lyophilized | −20°C (−4°F) | Up to 24 months | Dry, dark conditions |
| Reconstituted | 2–8°C (35–46°F) | Up to 28 days | Avoid freeze-thaw; protect from light |