Skip to content
PreclinicalResearch compound

Melanotan‑1 (Afamelanotide)

α-MSH analog, approved for erythropoietic protoporphyria

Telegram
Melanotan-1 (Afamelanotide) vial

Related comparisons

Melanotan-1 vs Melanotan-2

WHAT IS MELANOTAN-1 (AFAMELANOTIDE)?

Detailed overview

Afamelanotide (Scenesse) is an α-MSH analog that drives melanogenesis via MC1R. FDA-approved in 2019 for EPP to reduce phototoxic reactions. Available in two forms: subcutaneous injection (FDA-approved Scenesse implant + research protocol) and intranasal spray (Hadley-style research route, lower efficacy).

Type

α-MSH analog

Structure

[Nle4, D-Phe7]-α-MSH

Status

FDA approved (EPP)

Storage

2–8°C

Source

Placeholder, image later

Skin / sexual health

Melanocortin (MC1R / MC4R) receptor activation produces two main effects: skin pigmentation (melanin synthesis, UV protection, cosmetic) and centrally-mediated libido / sexual response. The peptide also supports collagen I/III and elastin synthesis, improving skin elasticity and texture, youth markers measurably rise. Acute effect (libido, energy) often within 30–60 min; lasting effects (tone, pigmentation) build over 1–3 weeks. Routine mole checks recommended.

Data console

Lab data

/lab/molecular-data.jsonLIVE
> Classificationα-MSH analog
> Structure[Nle4, D-Phe7]-α-MSH
> Molecular weightN/A
> Target area-
> Storage2–8°C
> Stability~30 days reconstituted

Research indications

Investigated uses and mechanisms

Libido & sexual function

Central (MC4R) pathway activation; libido and function improve.

Skin pigmentation

Increased melanin synthesis (UV-protection, cosmetic aim).

Collagen / skin elasticity

Rises in youth markers (collagen I, III).

Reconstitution

How to prepare, step by step

Important

Sterile technique required. Use bacteriostatic water (BAC) only. Never distilled or tap water.

  1. 01

    10 mg lyophilized vial + 5 ml bacteriostatic water

  2. 02

    Inject water slowly onto vial wall, NOT directly onto powder

  3. 03

    Wait 30 seconds, swirl gently (DO NOT shake)

  4. 04

    Storage: refrigerated (2–8°C), max 28 days

Quality indicators

How to recognize a pure peptide

Purity markers

4

  • White / off-white powder

    Typical appearance of sterile lyophilized peptide.

  • Comes with COA (Certificate of Analysis)

    Independent lab analysis, ≥98% purity.

  • Intact, sealed vial

    Rubber stopper + aluminum crimp intact, ensuring sterility.

  • Dissolves clear

    Clear solution after reconstitution, no sediment.

Use caution

1

  • Storage temperature

    Extended room-temp exposure may reduce potency.

Do not use

2

  • Discoloration / sediment

    Yellow, cloudy or particulate solution, indicates degradation, do not use.

  • Damaged packaging

    Cracked vial or loose cap, sterility compromised, discard.

Interactions & stacks

What to combine and what to avoid

GHK-Cu

Synergistic

Copper peptide: skin regeneration and epigenetic modulation

Melanotan-2

Synergistic

Synthetic α-MSH analog: pigmentation and libido modulation

GHK-Cu

Synergistic

Complementary skin-regeneration agents.

Vitamin C / Zinc / B-complex

Synergistic

Supports collagen synthesis and antioxidant capacity.

Caffeine

Requires timing

Compatible with morning dosing; avoid late-day stacking.

Retinoids

Use caution

Skin irritation may stack, separate timing.

NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, ASA)

Use caution

Long-term concurrent use may blunt regenerative effects.

Alcohol

Avoid

Reduces recovery and increases side-effect risk.

Safety

Side effects, stop signs, contraindications

Side effects · 5

  • Nausea on first doses
  • Increased pigmentation (expected effect)
  • Reduced appetite
  • Blood-pressure increase
  • Spontaneous erection (PT-141 / Melanotan-type)

Contraindications · 5

  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding
  • Active malignancy
  • Known allergy to the peptide or its components
  • Severe hepatic or renal impairment (medical consultation required)
  • Age under 18

Related Peptides

Same therapeutic category

Studies

Related research and clinical findings

Research
NEJM · 2015

Afamelanotide for erythropoietic protoporphyria

Langendonk JG, Balwani M, Anderson KE, et al.

Afamelanotide significantly extends pain-free sun exposure in EPP patients.

PMID: 26132941Open

Telegram

Have a question about Melanotan‑1 (Afamelanotide)?

Reach out to an advisor on Telegram. We can help you find the right peptide.

Telegram

Personalized consultation

Want a detailed conversation tailored to your data?

Fill out the prep intake form (your goals, training and health data), and the advisor prepares from it to give genuinely personalized guidance.

Fill out the form

~5–7 min · prep questionnaire · confidential · GDPR-compliant

MolekulaX Editorial Team·Source-verified · PubMed · FDA · EMA
Updated: June 19, 2026

The information here is strictly for educational and scientific purposes. It does not replace medical advice or clinical consultation, and it does not encourage illegal substance or pharmaceutical use. Data is sourced. When in doubt, consult your doctor.