Melanotan II (MT-II) is a synthetic peptide analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It was originally developed as a potential therapeutic agent for tanning as it stimulates melanogenesis (melanin production), leading to skin pigmentation. Beyond its effects on skin color, MT-II has also been studied for its potential effects on sexual function and appetite suppression.
MT-II is administered via injection. Its half-life in the body is approximately 33 hours. It is not currently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for human use and is generally acquired and used in research settings or underground markets. While it has been investigated for potential therapeutic applications, its use outside of controlled research is associated with significant safety concerns. (PubChem)
Deep dive
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Known interactions
Category rule: peptide × hormone
Note
Injectable peptides plus hormones can have overlapping or compounding effects that aren't always well characterized.
Track bloodwork with a provider; don't assume combinations are neutral.
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Related compounds
Others in the peptide category or studied for the same goals.