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Melanotan II vs Afamelanotide

A neutral, side-by-side look at Melanotan II and Afamelanotide: what each one is, its class, half-life, storage, and the public sources behind it. Educational reference only, not medical advice, dosing, or a recommendation to use either compound.

AttributeMelanotan IIAfamelanotide
CategorySexual / HormonalSexual / Hormonal
Half-life~1 h, subcutaneous~15 h, controlled-release subcutaneous implant
Common vial10 mg16 mg
ReferenceVerifiedVerified

What is Melanotan II?

A synthetic cyclic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone acting as a non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist. Studied in relation to skin pigmentation and, via MC4R activation, sexual arousal. Not FDA-approved.

Sources

  • ScienceDirect Topics: Melanotan II
  • Peer-reviewed melanocortin pharmacology
Read the Melanotan II profile →

What is Afamelanotide?

A melanocortin-1 receptor agonist approved to increase pain-free light exposure in adults with erythropoietic protoporphyria, a rare photosensitivity disorder. It is delivered as a controlled-release implant. Its approved use is photoprotection, not weight, performance or sexual function.

Sources

  • FDA label: SCENESSE (NDA 210797)
Read the Afamelanotide profile →

Educational reference only, compiled from public sources. Not medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or a dosing recommendation, and not a recommendation to use any compound. Many compounds listed are research materials not approved for human use. Consult a qualified professional.