What is Melanotan I?

Overview

Melanotan-1 (afamelanotide) is the cyclic α-MSH analog clinically used under the brand Scenesse for erythropoietic protoporphyria. Compared to MT-II, it binds more selectively to MC1R (melanocortin-1) and avoids the MC3R/MC4R activity that drives MT-II’s cardiovascular and appetite side effects. Why the selectivity profile matters: researchers studying melanin synthesis or UV-photoprotection want MC1R activation without the nausea, blood-pressure changes, or libido effects that MT-II triggers through MC3/4R. MT-1 gives them that isolation. IF the research endpoint is selective MC1R activation — pigmentation, photoprotection, or α-MSH-receptor pharmacology — THEN Melanotan-1 is the cleaner tool. SO it’s the default for EPP, vitiligo, and photodermatosis research. Batch-verified ≥99% HPLC.

Research areas

• MC1R selectivity

  <p>Higher MC1R:MC4R selectivity than Melanotan-2. Minimal penile erection, appetite, or blood-pressure effects in published trials.</p>

• Photoprotection

  <p>Clinically approved for erythropoietic protoporphyria; extends pain-free sun exposure window in published EPP cohorts.</p>

• Melanogenesis

  <p>Stimulates eumelanin synthesis in epidermal melanocytes. Induces physiologic tanning over 1–2 weeks of dosing in sensitive phototypes.</p>

• Administration

  <p>Subcutaneous administration; the clinical formulation is a slow-release bioresorbable implant. Reconstituted lyophilized powder refrigerates to 30 days.</p>

Published research

• Afamelanotide for Erythropoietic Protoporphyria

  PMID 26132941 — PubMed

Storage & handling

Lyophilized Melanotan Iis stored at –20 °C protected from light. Once reconstituted with bacteriostatic water, store at 2–8 °C and use within 30 days for maximum stability.

Frequently asked questions

What is Melanotan I?

Melanotan I (Melanotan I) is a research compound studied in the area of sun protection. A 13-amino-acid α-MSH analog. Studied for melanogenesis, photoprotection, and erythropoietic protoporphyria indications with a cleaner safety profile than MT-II.

What is the CAS number of Melanotan I?

The CAS registry number of Melanotan I is 75921-69-6.

How should Melanotan I be stored?

Lyophilized Melanotan I should be stored at –20 °C protected from light. Once reconstituted with bacteriostatic water, store at 2–8 °C and use within 30 days for maximum stability.

How is the purity of Melanotan I verified?

Every Woosh Labs batch of Melanotan I is independently tested by third-party HPLC and mass spectrometry, with a batch-specific Certificate of Analysis published verifying ≥99% purity.

Is Melanotan I for human use?

No. Melanotan I sold by Woosh Labs is strictly for in-vitro laboratory research by qualified professionals. It is not for human or veterinary use of any kind.