Melanotan I
low riskAlso: MT-1 · Afamelanotide · Scenesse
Melanotan I (Afamelanotide/Scenesse) is FDA-approved for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a rare disease causing extreme sun sensitivity. It stimulates melanogenesis (tanning) without UV exposure, providing photoprotection. Clean safety profile as an approved drug.
Reported Benefits
Photoprotection in EPP
FDA approved; Phase III RCT: significantly increased pain-free sun exposure in EPP patients.
Mechanism of Action
Non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist (MC1R primary target); stimulates melanocyte dendricity and melanin synthesis; photoprotective pigmentation.
Key Clinical Studies
Langendonk et al. (2015)
Phase III RCT · n=74
Significantly increased pain-free light exposure time in EPP vs. placebo
EPP: A Rare Approved Indication
EPP (erythropoietic protoporphyria) is a painful genetic disease where sunlight exposure causes severe burning and blistering. Melanotan I’s FDA approval here establishes the melanocortin pharmacology is safe and effective — a foundation for understanding its broader applications.
Differs from Melanotan II
Melanotan I (MC1R selective) is safer and approved. Melanotan II (less selective, includes MC4R) is unapproved and has more side effects including sexual stimulation.
Regulatory Status
FDA ApprovedFDA approved as Scenesse (afamelanotide) for EPP
Safety Profile
Side Effects
- •Nausea (transient)
- •Flushing
- •Hyperpigmentation (nevi darkening — requires monitoring)
- •Fatigue
Contraindications
- •History of melanoma
- •Active malignancy
Primary Uses
Related Peptides
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