Melanotan II (Melanotan 2) Benefits

What Research Shows

Introduction:

Melanotan II (Melanotan 2, MT-II) is a synthetic peptide that mimics the effects of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Research has focused on its ability to stimulate pigmentation, but studies also suggest roles in sexual function and metabolic regulation.¹² While not FDA-approved, Melanotan II remains a widely studied research compound.

Key Benefits Reported in Research

Melanotan II has been researched for pigmentation, sexual function, and metabolic effects

1. Skin Pigmentation & Tanning

Melanotan II stimulates MC1R receptors in melanocytes, leading to increased melanin production.¹
Research shows this results in darker skin pigmentation, which has been investigated for treating conditions like vitiligo and photosensitivity disorders.³
Why it matters: Increased melanin may help protect against UV-induced DNA damage and sunburn.

2. Sexual Function

Clinical trials found that Melanotan II can improve erectile function in men with erectile dysfunction.²
It has also been studied in female sexual arousal disorder with reported increases in desire and physiological response.²
Why it matters: These effects stem from MC4R receptor activity in the central nervous system, opening pathways for research in sexual health.

3. Appetite & Metabolic Effects

By acting on MC3R/MC4R receptors in the brain, Melanotan II reduces food intake in animal and early human studies.⁴
Findings suggest potential roles in obesity research through appetite suppression and improved metabolic parameters.
Why it matters: While experimental, these effects align with broader research into melanocortin pathways for weight regulation.

Summary

Melanotan II (Melanotan 2) has been studied for three main benefits:

Pigmentation/tanning — by increasing melanin production.
Sexual function — through MC4R activation in the brain.
Metabolism — via appetite suppression and energy balance regulation.

Despite these findings, Melanotan II is not FDA-approved and should be regarded as a research-only peptide.

FAQs About Melanotan II Benefits

What is the main benefit of Melanotan II?

Its primary studied benefit is increased skin pigmentation through melanin production.

Does Melanotan II help with weight loss?

It reduces appetite in some studies, but research remains experimental.

Can Melanotan II improve sexual function?

Yes, clinical trials found improvements in erectile dysfunction and female arousal disorder.

Is Melanotan II approved for tanning or cosmetic use?

No, it is not FDA-approved for any use.

References

Abdel-Malek Z, et al. “Melanocortin receptors and human pigmentation.” Pigment Cell Res. 2001;14(3):153–160. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11434561/
Wessells H, et al. “Effect of melanocortin receptor agonist Melanotan-II in men with erectile dysfunction: a randomized controlled trial.” Arch Neurol. 2000;57(4):449–455. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10768691/
Böhm M, et al. “Melanocortin receptor ligands: new horizons for skin biology and clinical dermatology.” J Invest Dermatol. 2006;126(9):1966–1975. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16912692/
Kievit P, et al. “Chronic treatment with a melanocortin-4 receptor agonist causes weight loss and improves insulin sensitivity in diet-induced obese monkeys.” J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2013;98(2):E291–E300. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23275596/