
Melanotan 1 (MT-1 / Afamelanotide)
Melanotan 1 (afamelanotide) is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte–stimulating hormone that preferentially activates MC1R to increase eumelanin production an…
Half-life
Approximately 30–60 minutes (systemic peptide); depot/implant formulations provide prolonged exposure (days).
Delivery
Subcutaneous injection in research settings; clinical use includes controlled-release subcutaneous implant.
Suggested dosage
Not specified
Usage
Mechanism of action
Benefits (4)
- Increases skin pigmentation (eumelanin)
- Enhances photoprotection and reduces UV sensitivity
- May decrease UV-induced erythema/DNA damage
- Lower incidence of nausea vs. MT-2 in many reports
Side effects (5)
- Flushing or facial warmth
- Headache or mild nausea
- Injection-site irritation
- Freckle/mole darkening and hyperpigmentation
- Rare: increased blood pressure or fatigue