Melanotan II vs Melanotan I (Afamelanotide)
Melanotan II and Melanotan I (also known as Afamelanotide) are both synthetic analogs of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) investigated in melanocortin receptor research. They share a common origin but differ in receptor selectivity and research profiles. Researchers studying melanocortin pathways frequently consider both.
| Property | Melanotan II | Melanotan I |
|---|---|---|
| Other names | MT-II, MT2 | Afamelanotide, Scenesse |
| Class | alpha-MSH analog (cyclic) | alpha-MSH analog (linear) |
| Receptor selectivity | Broad: MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R | More selective for MC1R |
| Primary research focus | Melanocortin pathways broadly | Photoprotection, MC1R research |
| Half-life (reported) | ~33 minutes | Longer, sustained release form |
About Melanotan II
Melanotan II is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of alpha-MSH. Research has characterized it as broadly active across melanocortin receptors (MC1R through MC5R), making it useful for research investigating multiple melanocortin pathways. Its broader receptor profile distinguishes it from the more selective Melanotan I.
About Melanotan I (Afamelanotide)
Melanotan I, also known as Afamelanotide, is a synthetic linear tridecapeptide analog of alpha-MSH. Research has characterized it as more selective for the MC1R receptor compared to Melanotan II. It has clinical research history particularly in photoprotection research and has received clinical approval in certain indications.
Which Should Researchers Choose?
The choice depends on the research mechanism of interest:
- Broad melanocortin receptor research -> Melanotan II.
- MC1R-selective research -> Melanotan I.
- Photoprotection research -> Melanotan I has more clinical research history in this area.
Shop these compounds
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Melanotan I and II the same compound?
No. They share an origin as alpha-MSH analogs but differ in structure and receptor selectivity.
Which is more researched?
Melanotan I has more clinical research history; Melanotan II is more common in broader melanocortin research.
Are these FDA approved?
Melanotan I (Afamelanotide) has clinical approval in some specific indications. Melanotan II is an investigational research compound.