Melanotan II
Synthetic melanocortin receptor agonist
Also known as: MT-2, MT-II
A synthetic analog of alpha-MSH used to stimulate skin tanning and libido. Sold illegally in many markets due to safety concerns.
It reliably induces tanning, but safety data are poor and regulators warn against use.
Mostly small, open-label, or observational human data.
Intended use
Used (illicitly) for sunless tanning and, secondarily, for erectile function and appetite effects.
Mechanism of action
Non-selective agonist of melanocortin receptors, stimulating melanin production (MC1R) and sexual/appetite pathways (MC3R/MC4R).
Reported benefits
Skin tanning
Reliably increases melanin production and skin pigmentation.
Libido effects
Melanocortin activity can increase sexual arousal (related analog approved as bremelanotide).
Risks & side effects
Melanoma / mole changes
high riskReports of new or changing moles and melanoma concerns.
Nausea & flushing
moderate riskCommon acute side effects.
Unregulated purity
high riskIllicit supply with unknown contaminants.
Research & citations
Studies are ordered by design strength. Dots indicate the rigor of each study type — meta-analyses and double-blind RCTs rank highest, case reports and in vitro work lowest.
- Melanocortin agonists and sexual function
Related MC4R agonist approved for HSDD, informing class effects.
Obstetrics & Gynecology · 2019 · n = Bremelanotide trials
Double-blind RCT - Melanotan and unlicensed tanning agents
Association with changing melanocytic lesions in users.
British Journal of Dermatology · 2009 · n = Case series
Observational
Legal status by region
Regulatory status varies widely and changes often. Verify against current local law before acting.
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Banned | Not FDA-approved; illegal to sell for human use. |
| United Kingdom | Banned | MHRA warns it is illegal to sell; unsafe. |
| Australia | Banned | Prohibited import/supply. |
| European Union | Banned | Not authorized; sale for human use is illegal. |
Sourcing & prescribing
Where a compound can legally be obtained, and who is able to prescribe it.
- Illegal
Illicit online vendors
Sold illegally for human use in most countries.
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