CKF Tide Tables

MT-2 (Melanotan II Acetate)

Quick Facts

Property Value
Category Melanocortin Receptor Agonist
Risk Level High
Administration Subcutaneous Injection
Typical Frequency 1–3 Times Weekly
Estimated Half-Life Approximately 30–60 Minutes
Primary Research Interest Tanning / Pigmentation / UV Sensitization
Important Disclaimer

This material is provided strictly for educational and informational purposes related to peptide research and experimental pigmentation compounds. Melanotan II (MT-2) is a biologically active melanocortin receptor agonist that may significantly alter pigmentation pathways and other physiological signaling systems. Information presented here should not be interpreted as medical advice, treatment recommendations, or encouragement of unsupervised use.

1. Reconstitution Guide

  • Vial Size: 10 mg
  • Dilutant Type: BAC Water
  • Amount of Dilutant Added: 2 mL
  • Final Concentration: 5.00 mg/mL

At this concentration:

• 250 mcg = 0.050 mL (5.0 units)

• 500 mcg = 0.100 mL (10.0 units)

• 3 mg = 0.600 mL (60.0 units)

2. Route of Administration

Melanotan II is most commonly administered as a subcutaneous injectable melanocortin receptor agonist.

  • Primary Route: SubQ Injection
  • Preferred Timing: Flexible timing around UV exposure protocols
  • Administration Notes: UV exposure is still required for visible tanning effects, though substantially less exposure may be needed

3. Typical Research Protocols

  • Product Strength: 5.00 mg/mL
  • Typical Delivered Amount: 250–500 mcg, 1–3 times weekly. Do not exceed 3 mg weekly.
  • Frequency: 1–3 times per week
  • Cycle Length: Seasonal use (commonly spring and summer on / fall and winter off)
  • Special Notes: MT-2 still requires UV exposure in order to visibly darken the skin, though significantly less exposure is generally required. Higher doses are frequently associated with pronounced gastrointestinal side effects including nausea. MT-2 also stimulates melanocytes — the pigment-producing cells involved in tanning. While this does not automatically mean the compound causes melanoma, legitimate theoretical concerns exist surrounding abnormal melanocyte stimulation and potential cancer risk.

4. Summary

Melanotan II (MT-2) is an experimental melanocortin receptor agonist peptide researched for its ability to stimulate skin pigmentation and increase tanning response to UV exposure.

The compound is primarily discussed for cosmetic tanning applications, though melanocortin signaling may also influence appetite, libido, and other physiological systems.

5. Mechanism of Action

MT-2 activates melanocortin receptors involved in melanin production and pigmentation signaling.

Potential downstream effects discussed in research include:

  • Increased melanin production
  • Enhanced tanning response to UV exposure
  • Reduced UV exposure requirements
  • Altered appetite signaling
  • Changes in libido or arousal signaling

Because the peptide stimulates melanocyte activity, concerns surrounding abnormal pigmentation signaling are frequently discussed.

6. Potential Benefits

  • Enhanced tanning response
  • Reduced required UV exposure
  • Potential reduction in sunburn susceptibility
  • Increased skin pigmentation
  • Possible appetite suppression effects

7. Potential Risks / Side Effects

High

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Facial flushing
  • Fatigue
  • Darkening of freckles or moles
  • Potential abnormal melanocyte signaling concerns
  • Theoretical melanoma concerns
  • Limited long-term human safety data

8. Half-Life

Melanotan II is commonly discussed as having an estimated plasma half-life of approximately 30–60 minutes.

Despite the relatively short circulating duration, pigmentation effects may accumulate gradually over time with repeated exposure.

9. Storage Information

  • Store refrigerated before and after reconstitution
  • Protect from direct light exposure
  • Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
  • Maintain sterile handling practices during preparation

10. Contraindications / Warnings

  • History of melanoma or skin cancer
  • Abnormal or rapidly changing moles
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • Known hypersensitivity to peptide compounds
  • Photosensitivity disorders

11. Research References

  • PubMed
  • NIH Publications
  • Pigmentation and melanocortin literature
  • Peer-reviewed dermatology journals