What is the typical Melanotan II dosage?

Published protocols describe 100–500 mcg per dose, given subcutaneous. This is context from the literature, not a recommendation: a licensed provider sets the dose.

What are the side effects of Melanotan II?

Risks noted for Melanotan II include nausea, flushing, darkening of moles, and unapproved — safety concerns. Tell your provider about your medications and conditions before starting.

What is the half-life of Melanotan II?

The reported half-life is hours (limited data). Onset is typically reported at 1–2 weeks with UV exposure.

How should Melanotan II be stored?

Refrigerated (2–8 °C); use within the pharmacy beyond-use date.

COSMETIC · PEPTIDE

What is Melanotan II?

Medically reviewed by the G1 Peptides clinical team · Updated October 1, 2026

THE SHORT ANSWER

Melanotan II is a synthetic analog of alpha-MSH, the hormone that stimulates skin pigment. It darkens the skin and is used without approval for tanning. Regulators in several countries have warned against its use.

Melanotan II at a glance

Type: Peptide
Also known as: MT-2, MT-II
Mechanism: Non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist
Status: Investigational
Half-life: Hours (limited data)
Route: Subcutaneous
Dosing range in the literature: 100–500 mcg per dose
Onset: 1–2 weeks with UV exposure
Storage: Refrigerated (2–8 °C); use within the pharmacy beyond-use date

How Melanotan II works

It activates melanocortin receptors non-selectively. Activity at one receptor increases melanin production in the skin. Activity at others affects appetite and sexual arousal, which accounts for its side effects.

What Melanotan II is studied for

Skin pigmentation

It reliably darkens skin, but there are no adequate long-term safety trials. Reported concerns include changes in moles. A related, more selective drug, afamelanotide, is approved for a rare light-sensitivity disorder.

Being studied for something is not proof that it works. Results in individuals vary.

Melanotan II dosing

Published protocols describe 100–500 mcg per dose, daily (loading), then 1–2× weekly, given subcutaneous. Onset is typically reported at 1–2 weeks with UV exposure.

These figures are context from the literature, not instructions. A licensed provider sets the dose and schedule for each patient.

Melanotan II dosage calculator →

Melanotan II side effects and risks

Nausea
Flushing
Darkening of moles
Unapproved — safety concerns

Tell your provider about every medication and condition before starting, and report anything unexpected. See peptide side effects and safety and who should not use peptides.

Is Melanotan II FDA approved?

Unapproved everywhere. Not FDA-approved, and G1 does not supply it.

Approval and trial status change. This page was last reviewed on October 1, 2026.

Melanotan II at G1 Peptides

G1 Peptides does not currently supply Melanotan II. A provider can discuss alternatives in a free consultation.

Melanotan II questions

What is Melanotan II?: Melanotan II is a synthetic analog of alpha-MSH, the hormone that stimulates skin pigment. It darkens the skin and is used without approval for tanning. Regulators in several countries have warned against its use.
What is Melanotan II used for?: Melanotan II is studied for skin pigmentation. It reliably darkens skin, but there are no adequate long-term safety trials. Reported concerns include changes in moles. A related, more selective drug, afamelanotide, is approved for a rare light-sensitivity disorder.
How does Melanotan II work?: It activates melanocortin receptors non-selectively. Activity at one receptor increases melanin production in the skin. Activity at others affects appetite and sexual arousal, which accounts for its side effects.
Is Melanotan II FDA approved?: Unapproved everywhere. Not FDA-approved, and G1 does not supply it.
What is the typical Melanotan II dosage?: Published protocols describe 100–500 mcg per dose, given subcutaneous. This is context from the literature, not a recommendation: a licensed provider sets the dose.
What are the side effects of Melanotan II?: Risks noted for Melanotan II include nausea, flushing, darkening of moles, and unapproved — safety concerns. Tell your provider about your medications and conditions before starting.
What is the half-life of Melanotan II?: The reported half-life is hours (limited data). Onset is typically reported at 1–2 weeks with UV exposure.
How should Melanotan II be stored?: Refrigerated (2–8 °C); use within the pharmacy beyond-use date.

For educational purposes only, and not medical advice. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Nothing on this page is intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Use any compound only under the guidance of a licensed provider.