Melanotan I
Afamelanotide · Scenesse · NDP-MSH
Popular for:Skin tanning, photoprotection, erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP)
19
Total Studies
13
Human Studies
Approved
Evidence Level
Approved
FDA Status
Overview
Melanotan I (Afamelanotide) is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) that selectively stimulates melanin production. It is FDA-approved under the brand name Scenesse for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a rare genetic condition causing extreme sun sensitivity.
Unlike Melanotan II, Melanotan I has a cleaner side effect profile — it primarily targets MC1R (the melanocortin-1 receptor responsible for pigmentation) without significant effects on sexual function or appetite. It was developed by the University of Arizona and is the more selective of the two melanocortin tanning peptides.
Mechanism of Action
Melanotan I binds selectively to MC1R receptors on melanocytes in the skin, stimulating eumelanin production (the dark, photoprotective form of melanin). This increases the skin's natural UV protection. Its selectivity for MC1R over MC3R/MC4R distinguishes it from Melanotan II, which activates multiple melanocortin receptor subtypes and produces broader effects including sexual arousal and appetite suppression.
Key Research Benefits
Clinical Evidence Summary
Research Pipeline
International Regulatory Status
19
Total Studies
13
Human Studies
FDA-approved as Scenesse (2019) for EPP. Available by prescription for EPP patients. Research compound for tanning/photoprotection applications.
Key Studies / PubMed References
Insights into Tanning Biology and Tanning Products.
Meta-AnalysisResnick G, Khajeh-Afzaly M, Yousefian F, et al. · The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology · 2026
PMID: 41890775A single-centre, prospective, qualitative analysis of knowledge, attitudes and behaviour of sunbed use among patients attending a pigmented lesion clinic in a tertiary referral centre.
Human StudyLai FY, Quigley C, Murray G, et al. · Skin health and disease · 2025
PMID: 40584950Recommended Tool Compounds for the Melanocortin Receptor (MCR) G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs).
ReviewWeirath NA, Haskell-Luevano C · ACS pharmacology & translational science · 2024
PMID: 39296259Effects of the central melanocortin system on feed intake, metabolic hormones and insulin action in the sheep.
Animal StudyEhrhardt RA, Giesy SL, Hileman SM, et al. · Journal of animal science · 2023
PMID: 38035762A glimpse into the underground market of melanotan.
Human StudyCallaghan Iii DJ · Dermatology online journal · 2018
PMID: 30142729Side Effects & Safety
Known Interactions
No curated interaction entry is live for Melanotan I yet.
Until the interaction table is fully populated, use the interaction checker and related peptides below to explore adjacent compounds and likely research pairings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Research Disclaimer
This page is for research and educational purposes only. The information presented is based on published scientific literature and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Melanotan I is not approved by the FDA for human therapeutic use. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. The studies referenced are linked to their original PubMed sources for verification.