Melanotan I
Melanotan I (Afamelanotide / Scenesse)
A selective MC1R agonist FDA-approved for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). Produces tanning without the libido or appetite effects of Melanotan II.
Afamelanotide (Melanotan I) is FDA-approved as Scenesse for prevention of phototoxicity in adults with erythropoietic protoporphyria. This page discusses the compound in a research context. The approved form is prescription-only and should be used under physician supervision. Research-grade Melanotan I sold by compound vendors is not the same as the FDA-approved product and is not approved for human use in that form.
What it is
Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a synthetic analogue of alpha-MSH that selectively targets the MC1R receptor — the receptor responsible for melanin production in the skin. Unlike Melanotan II, it does not meaningfully activate MC3R or MC4R, which mediate libido and appetite effects.
It received FDA approval in 2019 under the brand name Scenesse for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a rare genetic disorder causing extreme light sensitivity. It is administered as a subcutaneous implant in the approved form.
What research shows
- Selective melanogenesis via MC1R — produces tanning with UV protection against EPP photosensitivity
- Clinically meaningful reduction in pain and phototoxicity in EPP patients
- Significantly better tolerated than Melanotan II — no libido or spontaneous erection effects
- Research into Parkinson's disease neuroprotection (melanin plays a role in dopaminergic neurons)
What remains unknown
- Long-term effects on melanocytic lesions with repeated off-label use
- Safety profile in healthy individuals without EPP
- Optimal cycling for cosmetic tanning purposes
Administration basics
Common use cases
Tanning (off-label), EPP treatment (approved). Preferred over Melanotan II for tanning due to cleaner side effect profile.
Half-life
~3 hours for injected form. Implant releases over ~60 days.
Administration
Subcutaneous implant (FDA-approved form). Compounded injectable also used off-label.
Research Protocols & Common Usage
Doses used in research
- FDA-approved Scenesse implant delivers afamelanotide 16mg over approximately 2 months
- Community injection protocols are not well established given the approved implant delivery
Administration routes studied
Typical protocol duration
FDA-approved implant is administered approximately every 60 days for EPP patients.
Common stacking protocols
- Melanotan I is used standalone for its selective MC1R tanning effect
Contraindications & combinations to avoid
- Should NOT be combined with Melanotan II or PT-141 — redundant melanocortin receptor activity
- History of melanoma — consult a dermatologist before any melanocortin receptor agonist use
Dosing information reflects doses used in published research and commonly reported community protocols only. This is not a personal recommendation. These compounds are not FDA-approved for human use in the contexts described. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any protocol.
Considering stacking?
See the stacking guide for common combinations with Melanotan I and what to avoid.
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Reviews reflect individual user experiences with research compounds and are not medical advice. Results vary. These compounds are not FDA approved for human use. Peptelligent does not verify reported experiences.
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