Melanotan is a lab-made chemical. It is similar to a hormone found in the body. It was originally made as a drug to help treat certain skin conditions. It is also sold over the internet as a supplement.

Uses

Melanotan is commonly used for skin tanning. It is also used to produce erections in men with erectile dysfunction (ED), for rosacea, for fibromyalgia, and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses. There is also concern that melanotan might not be safe when used as a shot under the skin.

Be careful not to confuse melanotan with melatonin.

Mechanism of action

Melanotan II acts as a non-selective agonist of the melanocortin receptors MC1, MC3, MC4, and MC5.

To the extent that melanotan II produces melanogenesis, this is thought to be caused by activation of the MC1 receptor, whereas its clinically documented sexual effects are thought to be related to its ability to activate the MC4 receptor (though the MC3 is thought to possibly also be involved).

Other effects of melanotan II, mostly regarded as adverse effects, include flushing, nausea, vomiting, stretching, yawning, and loss of appetite (the last via activation of MC4).

Side Effects and Safety

When given as a shot: Melanotan is POSSIBLY UNSAFE when given as a shot. It can causes nausea, stomach cramps, decreased appetite, flushing, tiredness, yawning, darkened skin, spontaneous erections of the penis, and other side effects. In some people, especially those with light skin, a change in the shape of moles, new moles, and skin cancer, have all occurred in people using melanotan.

When sprayed in the nose: There isn't enough reliable information to know if melanotan is safe or what the side effects might be.

Special Precautions and Warnings:

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if melanotan is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.