Source comparison
Melanotan-1 vs Melanotan-2: Critical Structural and Safety Differences
Amino Acid Sequence 13-amino-acid linear analog of α-MSH 7-amino-acid cyclic lactam bridge structure Melanotan-1's longer sequence confers greater MC1R selectivity Receptor Specificity High MC1R selectivity, minimal MC3R/MC4R activity Broad melanocortin recept
This comparison does not assign a generated winner or score.
- Amino Acid Sequence
- 13-amino-acid linear analog of α-MSH
- 7-amino-acid cyclic lactam bridge structure
- Melanotan-1's longer sequence confers greater MC1R selectivity
- Receptor Specificity
- High MC1R selectivity, minimal MC3R/MC4R activity
- Broad melanocortin receptor activity across MC1R, MC3R, MC4R
- Melanotan-2's cross-reactivity causes appetite suppression, sexual side effects
- Regulatory Status
- FDA-approved (afamelanotide) for EPP, EU-approved for EPP and vitiligo
- Not approved for any indication in major jurisdictions
- Only Melanotan-1 has undergone rigorous Phase III trials and post-market surveillance
- Typical Dosing (Research)
- 0.16 mg/kg subcutaneously, once daily or controlled-release implant
- 0.5–1.0 mg subcutaneously, variable frequency
- Melanotan-1's dosing is standardised from clinical trials; Melanotan-2 dosing is empirical
- Side Effect Profile
- Nausea (mild, transient), darkening of existing nevi
- Nausea, spontaneous erections, flushing, appetite suppression, potential cardiovascular effects
- Melanotan-1's side effects are predictable and dose-dependent; Melanotan-2's broader receptor activity creates less controllable effects
- Pigmentation Onset
- Gradual darkening over 4–6 weeks
- Faster onset, often within 2–3 weeks
- Melanotan-2's rapid effect reflects higher potency but also higher risk of uneven pigmentation