PeptideTreatments
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Melanotan II: Research & Evidence

Established Evidence

Published research, clinical trial data, and evidence grading for Melanotan II across studied indications.

Back to Melanotan II overview

Research Summary

Melanotan II has approximately 20 human studies and 3-5 RCTs for tanning and erectile dysfunction. However, documented melanoma case reports linked to use are the defining safety concern. WADA-prohibited and likely to remain Category 2 restricted. The FDA-approved alternative PT-141 (bremelanotide) covers the sexual dysfunction indication without the melanoma signal.

Evidence by Indication (2 indications)

Indication Tier Trials Summary
Sexual dysfunction (erectile) Tier C 3 MC4R activation produces erectogenic effects; some clinical evidence in ED patients
Skin tanning Tier D 2 Increases melanogenesis but safety concerns limit clinical utility; not approved

Graded using our evidence tier methodology.

Research Gap Score /10

Higher score = larger gap between therapeutic potential and available clinical evidence.

Citations (5 sources)

  1. 1. Melanoma associated with the use of melanotan-II. Study

    (2014), Dermatology (Basel, Switzerland)

  2. 2. Melanotan II injection resulting in systemic toxicity and rhabdomyolysis. Study

    (2012), Clinical toxicology (Philadelphia, Pa.)

  3. 3. Interdisciplinary and interprofessional communication intervention: How psychological safety fosters communication and increases patient safety. Study

    (2023), Frontiers in psychology

  4. 4. Melatonin and alcohol-related disorders. Study

    (2020), Chronobiology international

  5. 5. Pharmacology of ramelteon, a selective MT1/MT2 receptor agonist: a novel therapeutic drug for sleep disorders. Study

    (2009), CNS neuroscience & therapeutics