Melanotan 1 (Afamelanotide) is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) — a naturally occurring peptide that regulates melanin production, skin pigmentation, and photoprotection.
Mechanism of action
Acts as a non-selective agonist at melanocortin receptors (MC1R–MC5R). Binding at MC1R on melanocytes stimulates melanogenesis — increasing production and distribution of eumelanin (dark pigment) in skin cells. This provides natural photoprotection by absorbing UV radiation.
Research context
Melanotan 1 has been clinically studied for photoprotection in light-sensitive populations. Research has examined its role in increasing skin melanin density, reducing UV-induced DNA damage, and dermatological conditions involving abnormal pigmentation.
⚠ For research purposes only. Not approved for human use by the FDA. Not for human consumption.
Research dosing reference
Starting dose
0.5–1 mg
Frequency
Once daily or every other day
Max studied
1 mg / dose
Route
Subcutaneous
Protocol notes
Begin at 0.5 mg to assess tolerance. Increase to 1 mg as tolerated. Research protocols typically run 2–4 weeks.
Commonly observed side effects
Nausea (most common at first dose), facial flushing, fatigue. Nausea typically resolves after the first few administrations.
⚠ Dosing data sourced from published clinical literature. For research reference only.
Reconstitution protocol
01
Draw 1–2 mL of bacteriostatic water into a clean syringe.
02
Insert needle through stopper and angle toward the glass wall.
03
Slowly push water down the side of the vial.
04
Swirl gently 30 seconds until dissolved. Solution should be clear.
05
Label with reconstitution date and refrigerate immediately.
Bacteriostatic water volume
1–2 mL bacteriostatic water per 10 mg vial
Dose calculation referenceAt 10 mg in 2 mL: each 0.1 mL = 0.5 mg · each 0.2 mL = 1 mg
⚠ Always use bacteriostatic water for multi-dose vials. Never shake — always swirl gently.
Dose Calculator
Enter how much bacteriostatic water you added to your 10mg vial and your target dose. The calculator shows exactly how many units to draw on a standard U-100 insulin syringe.
10 mg
Draw to this mark on your syringe
— units
— mL
Concentration: — mg/mL
⚠ For research reference only. Calculations assume a standard U-100 insulin syringe (100 units = 1 mL). Always verify your measurements.
Injection protocol
01
Draw target dose into insulin syringe.
02
Administer in the evening to minimize nausea during waking hours.
03
Clean site with alcohol swab and allow to dry.
04
Pinch skin, insert at 45°, slowly inject.
05
Remove, apply pressure, dispose safely. Log date, dose, and site.
Recommended needle
29–31 gauge insulin syringe
Injection sites
Abdomen or outer thigh. Rotate sites.
⚠ Always rotate injection sites. Never reuse syringes. Dispose of sharps properly.
Storage conditions
Unreconstituted
2–8°C refrigerated · Up to 24 months
Reconstituted
2–8°C refrigerated · Use within 28 days
Stability notes
Protect from direct light — Melanotan 1 is light sensitive. Do not freeze reconstituted solution. Discard if solution appears discolored or contains particulates.
⚠ Keep away from children. Do not use if solution appears cloudy or contains particulates.
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