Source comparison
Melanotan 1 vs. Melanotan 2: A Quick Comparison
To better understand the landscape, it's helpful to compare MT2 with its less-famous sibling, Melanotan 1 (also known by its approved drug name, Afamelanotide). While they sound similar, their receptor affinity and legal status are worlds apart. Structure Line
This comparison does not assign a generated winner or score.
- To better understand the landscape, it's helpful to compare MT2 with its less-famous sibling, Melanotan 1 (also known by its approved drug name, Afamelanotide). While they sound similar, their receptor affinity and legal status are worlds apart.
- Structure
- Linear peptide, a direct analog of α-MSH.
- Cyclical peptide, designed for higher potency and stability.
- Receptor Binding
- Highly selective for the MC1R (melanocortin 1 receptor).
- Binds non-selectively to MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R.
- Primary Effect
- Primarily stimulates melanogenesis (skin pigmentation).
- Stimulates pigmentation, but also strongly affects libido and appetite.
- Side Effects
- Fewer side effects; primarily related to skin.
- Broader side effect profile including nausea, flushing, and sexual effects.
- Legal Status (US)
- FDA-approved drug (Scenesse®) for a rare phototoxic disorder.
- Unapproved by the FDA. Sold for research purposes only.
- This table really highlights the divergence. Melanotan 1's high selectivity made it a better candidate for therapeutic development, leading to its eventual FDA approval for a very specific medical condition. Melanotan 2's broader, less targeted action made it a more complex and problematic candidate for human use, leaving it in the research-only category.