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Melanotan 2

Tanning, multiple benefits

Broader-acting: tanning + appetite suppression + libido boost.

In Plain English

Does several things: tanning, appetite reduction, and libido. Less targeted but more versatile than MT-1.

C

At a glance

Regulator warnings in several countries. New and changing moles. Evidence grade C on an A-to-D scale.

HOW IT IS TAKEN
Under the skin
HOW OFTEN
Daily, then a couple of times a week
HOW LONG
1 to 2 weeks, then maintenance
TESTED SPORT
Not banned

Reported practice from trials and the community, not a recommendation for anyone.

What Researchers Have Studied It For

+Tanning and pigmentation
+Appetite suppression
+Sexual function boost
+Multiple receptor activation
Molecular Weight
1024 Da
Half-Life
~33 minutes
Source
Cyclic a-MSH analog
Storage
Keep frozen as powder. Refrigerate once mixed.
Category
Skin

Published Research

Melanotan II for tanning
Br J Dermatol (2009)

Common questions about Melanotan 2

What is Melanotan 2 used for?

Researchers have studied Melanotan 2 for tanning and pigmentation, appetite suppression, sexual function boost, and more. In plain terms: Does several things: tanning, appetite reduction, and libido. Less targeted but more versatile than MT-1.

Is Melanotan 2 FDA-approved?

No. Melanotan 2 is not approved for human use anywhere. It is sold as a research chemical, which means no manufacturing standard, no batch recall and no one to report a problem to. The only quality control is the buyer's own.

How is Melanotan 2 usually taken?

The commonly reported pattern is under the skin, daily, then a couple of times a week, for 1 to 2 weeks, then maintenance. That describes reported practice from trials and the community. It is not a recommendation for anyone, and several of these compounds interact with common medications.

How strong is the evidence for Melanotan 2?

Grade C on this site's A-to-D scale. C means tested only in animals or cells, so everything about human use is an educated guess. Regulator warnings in several countries. New and changing moles.

Is Melanotan 2 banned in drug-tested sport?

It is not specifically listed by the World Anti-Doping Agency, but tested athletes should check the current list and their federation's rules, since related compounds and blends often are.

How long does Melanotan 2 stay in the body?

The half-life, the time for half a dose to leave the body, is about ~33 minutes. A short half-life means it wears off fast and is taken more often; a long one means once a week can be enough. Stored as a dry powder it keeps for months in the fridge; once mixed with water it is used within a few weeks.

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Go deeper on Melanotan 2 in The Peptide Course
How people commonly use it, what they notice, side effects, who stays away, and how good the evidence really is. Plus how to buy a vial that is actually Melanotan 2, and how to mix it. Six lessons are free.
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Melanotan 1

Tells your skin to produce more melanin. FDA-approved with real clinical safety data.

Skin protection, tanning
Research-use disclaimer — Melanotan 2 is referenced here for research education only. It is not approved by the FDA for human consumption, treatment, cure, or diagnosis of any condition. Nothing on this page is medical advice. Consult a licensed physician for anything related to your health.