Melanotan II
A non-selective melanocortin agonist that stimulates MC1R melanocytes to produce eumelanin (the tan) and MC4R pathways to drive libido and erections.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jonathan Snipes, MD. Last reviewed May 6, 2026.
What It Is
Melanotan II is a melanocortin agonist. Because it hits multiple melanocortin receptors, its effects and side effects are broader than its selective relative PT-141. It requires some UV exposure to develop pigment, so the skin-safety precautions below are serious.
How It Works
At MC1R it prompts melanocytes to produce the pigment that develops a tan; at MC4R it stimulates the brain pathways behind sexual desire and erections. Effects and side effects both track the dose, which is why loading starts low and increases slowly.
Who It's For
Adults seeking melanocortin-driven tanning or libido support under provider supervision who have cleared a skin and mole check first.
Who Should Avoid It
Requires a skin and mole check before use. Avoid entirely with any personal or family history of melanoma or numerous atypical moles: it darkens and can destabilize pigmented lesions and masks the warning signs of skin cancer. This is the single most important precaution. Prolonged or painful erection (priapism) over 4 hours is a medical emergency. Other effects include nausea, flushing, and darkening moles. Not for use in pregnancy.
Protocol & Pricing
OBP Pharmacy Price
$80/5mg
You pay pharmacy price. No markup.
Starting Dose
Per provider (low-dose loading)
Form
Injectable vial (5mL, 1mg/mL, 5mg total)
Dosing Protocol
Low starting units subcutaneously (provider-set) on a 1 mg/mL vial. Loading phase low daily doses until pigmentation develops, then 1 to 2 times weekly maintenance. Start low to limit nausea.
Beyond Use Date
90 Days from compounding (USP <797>)
Use within this window from the date your vial is compounded. BUD is set per USP <797> sterile compounding standards and printed on every label.
Stacking Guide
Stacks Well With
Related Peptides
Common questions about Melanotan II
- What is Melanotan II?
- Melanotan II is a melanocortin agonist. Because it hits multiple melanocortin receptors, its effects and side effects are broader than its selective relative PT-141. It requires some UV exposure to develop pigment, so the skin-safety precautions below are serious.
- How does Melanotan II work?
- At MC1R it prompts melanocytes to produce the pigment that develops a tan; at MC4R it stimulates the brain pathways behind sexual desire and erections. Effects and side effects both track the dose, which is why loading starts low and increases slowly.
- Who is Melanotan II for?
- Adults seeking melanocortin-driven tanning or libido support under provider supervision who have cleared a skin and mole check first.
- How much does Melanotan II cost?
- Melanotan II costs $80/5mg from Optimal Balance Pharmacy at wholesale, with a flat $39 medical visit fee from RxPepsDirect. The form is Injectable vial (5mL, 1mg/mL, 5mg total).
- What is the Beyond Use Date for Melanotan II?
- 90 Days from compounding (USP <797>) BUDs are assigned per USP <797> sterile compounding standards and printed on every vial label.