--- title: "Melanotan I: Dosing & Vendor Prices — BodyHackGuide" description: "Melanotan I: dosing protocols, mechanism & side effects. Compare 1 verified vendor prices." lang: en json-ld: | [ { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Home", "item": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Compounds", "item": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compare" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "Melanotan I" } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Product", "name": "Melanotan I", "description": "Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a linear synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) with the substitution of norleucine at position 4 and D-phenylalanine at position 7. Unlike Melanotan II (which is cyclic), Melanotan I is a linear peptide that is significantly more selective for MC1R over MC4R — making it a tanning/photoprotective agent with substantially less sexual and appetite-stimulating side effects. Afamelanotide was FDA-approved in October 2019 under the brand name Scenesse as an implant for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a rare photosensitivity disorder. Melanotan I is meaningfully different from Melanotan II in structure, selectivity, and side-effect profile and should not be confused with it.", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/melanotan-i", "image": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/og-image.png", "brand": { "@type": "Brand", "name": "Research Compound" }, "offers": { "@type": "AggregateOffer", "lowPrice": "35.00", "highPrice": "35.00", "priceCurrency": "USD", "offerCount": "1", "availability": "https://schema.org/InStock", "offers": [ { "@type": "Offer", "price": "35.00", "priceCurrency": "USD", "availability": "https://schema.org/InStock", "itemCondition": "https://schema.org/NewCondition", "url": "https://ionpeptide.com/product/melanotan-i/?ref=reddit15", "seller": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Ion Peptide", "url": "https://ionpeptide.com" }, "name": "Melanotan I 10mg vial" } ] } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "MedicalWebPage", "name": "Melanotan I", "description": "Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a linear synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) with the substitution of norleucine at position 4 and D-phenylalanine at position 7. Unlike Melanotan II (which is cyclic), Melanotan I is a linear peptide that is significantly more selective for MC1R over MC4R — making it a tanning/photoprotective agent with substantially less sexual and appetite-stimulating side effects. Afamelanotide was FDA-approved in October 2019 under the brand name Scenesse as an implant for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a rare photosensitivity disorder. Melanotan I is meaningfully different from Melanotan II in structure, selectivity, and side-effect profile and should not be confused with it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-09-04T09:49:41.155Z", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/melanotan-i", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "BioChonch", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/about", "jobTitle": "Founder & Lead Researcher", "sameAs": [ "https://x.com/bodyhackguide", "https://reddit.com/r/BodyHackGuide", "https://reddit.com/r/BrainHackGuide", "https://reddit.com/r/Biohackingher" ], "worksFor": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "BodyHackGuide", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co" } }, "reviewedBy": { "@type": "Person", "name": "BioChonch", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/about", "jobTitle": "Founder & Lead Researcher", "sameAs": [ "https://x.com/bodyhackguide", "https://reddit.com/r/BodyHackGuide", "https://reddit.com/r/BrainHackGuide", "https://reddit.com/r/Biohackingher" ], "worksFor": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "BodyHackGuide", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co" } }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "BodyHackGuide", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co" }, "mainContentOfPage": { "@type": "WebPageElement", "cssSelector": "main" }, "about": { "@type": "Drug", "name": "Melanotan I", "alternateName": [ "Afamelanotide", "CUV1647", "Scenesse", "alpha-MSH analog", "[Nle4,D-Phe7]-alpha-MSH (linear)" ], "description": "Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a linear synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) with the substitution of norleucine at position 4 and D-phenylalanine at position 7. Unlike Melanotan II (which is cyclic), Melanotan I is a linear peptide that is significantly more selective for MC1R over MC4R — making it a tanning/photoprotective agent with substantially less sexual and appetite-stimulating side effects. Afamelanotide was FDA-approved in October 2019 under the brand name Scenesse as an implant for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a rare photosensitivity disorder. Melanotan I is meaningfully different from Melanotan II in structure, selectivity, and side-effect profile and should not be confused with it.", "activeIngredient": "Melanotan I", "administrationRoute": "Subcutaneous, Intramuscular", "mechanismOfAction": "Melanotan I is afamelanotide, i.e. [Nle4, D-Phe7]-alpha-MSH ('NDP-alpha-MSH'), a synthetic 13-amino-acid analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone. The Nle4 and D-Phe7 substitutions make it resistant to enzymatic breakdown and roughly 10-100x more potent than native alpha-MSH. It agonizes the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) on melanocytes; MC1R activation stimulates adenylyl cyclase, raising intracellular cAMP and activating protein kinase A (PKA), which in turn upregulates MITF and tyrosinase - the rate-limiting enzyme of melanogenesis - shifting pigment synthesis toward eumelanin (brown/black pigment) with or without UV exposure. This is the basis of its skin-darkening and photoprotective effects. Importantly, contrary to a widely repeated claim, Melanotan I is NOT MC1R-selective: NDP-alpha-MSH is a non-selective, superpotent agonist with nanomolar efficacy at every melanocortin receptor subtype except MC2R, meaning it also activates MC3R, MC4R and MC5R [PMID:9216831]. In practice it tends to cause fewer MC4R-mediated effects (spontaneous erections, heightened libido, pronounced nausea) than the cyclic analog Melanotan II - but this reflects Melanotan II's greater potency, metabolic stability and receptor residence rather than any true receptor selectivity of Melanotan I.", "dosageForm": "vial", "legalStatus": "Not approved for human use — research chemical", "warning": "For research purposes only. Not for human consumption." } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is Melanotan I used for in research?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a linear synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) with the substitution of norleucine at position 4 and D-phenylalanine at position 7. Unlike Melanotan II (which is cyclic), Melanotan I is a linear peptide that is significantly more selective for MC1R over MC4R — making it a tanning/photoprotective agent with substantially less sexual and appetite-stimulating side effects. Afamelanotide was FDA-approved in October 2019 under the brand name Scenesse as an implant for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a rare photosensitivity disorder. Melanotan I is meaningfully different from Melanotan II in structure, selectivity, and side-effect profile and should not be confused with it." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What forms does Melanotan I come in?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Melanotan I is available in vial form." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How much does Melanotan I cost?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Prices start at $19.00 across 1 verified vendor." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How do I compare Melanotan I vendors?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Compare prices, payment methods, shipping, and COA scores across 1 vendor." } } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Organization", "@id": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co#organization", "name": "BodyHackGuide", "alternateName": "BHG", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/logo.png", "width": 512, "height": 512 }, "description": "Evidence-based research reference for peptides and nootropics. 124+ compound profiles, interactive dosing calculators, real-time vendor pricing, and trust-scored vendor reviews scored on a public, reproducible methodology applied to every vendor. BodyHackGuide and BHG Labs share common ownership, and we earn a commission on purchases through our links.", "foundingDate": "2024", "founder": { "@id": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/about#person" }, "sameAs": [ "https://x.com/bodyhackguide", "https://reddit.com/r/BodyHackGuide", "https://reddit.com/r/BrainHackGuide", "https://reddit.com/r/Biohackingher", "https://discord.gg/Mhq5UdRYBA" ], "knowsAbout": [ "Peptide research", "Nootropic research", "Biohacking", "Compound dosing", "Vendor transparency" ], "publishingPrinciples": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/editorial-standards", "ethicsPolicy": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/editorial-standards", "diversityPolicy": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/editorial-standards" }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Product", "name": "Melanotan I", "description": "Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a linear synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) with the substitution of norleucine at position 4 and D-phenylalanine at position 7. Unlike Melanotan II (which is cyclic), Melanotan I is a linear peptide that is significantly more selective for MC1R over MC4R — making it a tanning/photoprotective agent with substantially less sexual and appetite-stimulating side effects. Afamelanotide was FDA-approved in October 2019 under the brand name Scenesse as an implant for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a rare photosensitivity disorder. Melanotan I is meaningfully different from Melanotan II in structure, selectivity, and side-effect profile and should not be confused with it.", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/melanotan-i", "image": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/og-image.png", "brand": { "@type": "Brand", "name": "Research Compound" }, "offers": { "@type": "AggregateOffer", "lowPrice": "35.00", "highPrice": "35.00", "priceCurrency": "USD", "offerCount": "1", "availability": "https://schema.org/InStock", "offers": [ { "@type": "Offer", "price": "35.00", "priceCurrency": "USD", "availability": "https://schema.org/InStock", "itemCondition": "https://schema.org/NewCondition", "url": "https://ionpeptide.com/product/melanotan-i/?ref=reddit15", "seller": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Ion Peptide", "url": "https://ionpeptide.com" }, "name": "Melanotan I 10mg vial" } ] } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "MedicalWebPage", "name": "Melanotan I", "description": "Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a linear synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) with the substitution of norleucine at position 4 and D-phenylalanine at position 7. Unlike Melanotan II (which is cyclic), Melanotan I is a linear peptide that is significantly more selective for MC1R over MC4R — making it a tanning/photoprotective agent with substantially less sexual and appetite-stimulating side effects. Afamelanotide was FDA-approved in October 2019 under the brand name Scenesse as an implant for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a rare photosensitivity disorder. Melanotan I is meaningfully different from Melanotan II in structure, selectivity, and side-effect profile and should not be confused with it.", "lastReviewed": "2026-09-04T09:49:41.155Z", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/melanotan-i", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "BioChonch", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/about", "jobTitle": "Founder & Lead Researcher", "sameAs": [ "https://x.com/bodyhackguide", "https://reddit.com/r/BodyHackGuide", "https://reddit.com/r/BrainHackGuide", "https://reddit.com/r/Biohackingher" ], "worksFor": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "BodyHackGuide", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co" } }, "reviewedBy": { "@type": "Person", "name": "BioChonch", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/about", "jobTitle": "Founder & Lead Researcher", "sameAs": [ "https://x.com/bodyhackguide", "https://reddit.com/r/BodyHackGuide", "https://reddit.com/r/BrainHackGuide", "https://reddit.com/r/Biohackingher" ], "worksFor": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "BodyHackGuide", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co" } }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "BodyHackGuide", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co" }, "mainContentOfPage": { "@type": "WebPageElement", "cssSelector": "main" }, "about": { "@type": "Drug", "name": "Melanotan I", "alternateName": [ "Afamelanotide", "CUV1647", "Scenesse", "alpha-MSH analog", "[Nle4,D-Phe7]-alpha-MSH (linear)" ], "description": "Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a linear synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) with the substitution of norleucine at position 4 and D-phenylalanine at position 7. Unlike Melanotan II (which is cyclic), Melanotan I is a linear peptide that is significantly more selective for MC1R over MC4R — making it a tanning/photoprotective agent with substantially less sexual and appetite-stimulating side effects. Afamelanotide was FDA-approved in October 2019 under the brand name Scenesse as an implant for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a rare photosensitivity disorder. Melanotan I is meaningfully different from Melanotan II in structure, selectivity, and side-effect profile and should not be confused with it.", "activeIngredient": "Melanotan I", "administrationRoute": "Subcutaneous, Intramuscular", "mechanismOfAction": "Melanotan I is afamelanotide, i.e. [Nle4, D-Phe7]-alpha-MSH ('NDP-alpha-MSH'), a synthetic 13-amino-acid analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone. The Nle4 and D-Phe7 substitutions make it resistant to enzymatic breakdown and roughly 10-100x more potent than native alpha-MSH. It agonizes the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) on melanocytes; MC1R activation stimulates adenylyl cyclase, raising intracellular cAMP and activating protein kinase A (PKA), which in turn upregulates MITF and tyrosinase - the rate-limiting enzyme of melanogenesis - shifting pigment synthesis toward eumelanin (brown/black pigment) with or without UV exposure. This is the basis of its skin-darkening and photoprotective effects. Importantly, contrary to a widely repeated claim, Melanotan I is NOT MC1R-selective: NDP-alpha-MSH is a non-selective, superpotent agonist with nanomolar efficacy at every melanocortin receptor subtype except MC2R, meaning it also activates MC3R, MC4R and MC5R [PMID:9216831]. In practice it tends to cause fewer MC4R-mediated effects (spontaneous erections, heightened libido, pronounced nausea) than the cyclic analog Melanotan II - but this reflects Melanotan II's greater potency, metabolic stability and receptor residence rather than any true receptor selectivity of Melanotan I.", "dosageForm": "vial", "legalStatus": "Not approved for human use — research chemical", "warning": "For research purposes only. Not for human consumption." } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is Melanotan I used for in research?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a linear synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) with the substitution of norleucine at position 4 and D-phenylalanine at position 7. Unlike Melanotan II (which is cyclic), Melanotan I is a linear peptide that is significantly more selective for MC1R over MC4R — making it a tanning/photoprotective agent with substantially less sexual and appetite-stimulating side effects. Afamelanotide was FDA-approved in October 2019 under the brand name Scenesse as an implant for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a rare photosensitivity disorder. Melanotan I is meaningfully different from Melanotan II in structure, selectivity, and side-effect profile and should not be confused with it." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What forms does Melanotan I come in?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Melanotan I is available in vial form." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How much does Melanotan I cost?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Prices start at $19.00 across 1 verified vendor." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How do I compare Melanotan I vendors?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Compare prices, payment methods, shipping, and COA scores across 1 vendor." } } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Organization", "@id": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co#organization", "name": "BodyHackGuide", "alternateName": "BHG", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/logo.png", "width": 512, "height": 512 }, "description": "Evidence-based research reference for peptides and nootropics. 124+ compound profiles, interactive dosing calculators, real-time vendor pricing, and trust-scored vendor reviews scored on a public, reproducible methodology applied to every vendor. BodyHackGuide and BHG Labs share common ownership, and we earn a commission on purchases through our links.", "foundingDate": "2024", "founder": { "@id": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/about#person" }, "sameAs": [ "https://x.com/bodyhackguide", "https://reddit.com/r/BodyHackGuide", "https://reddit.com/r/BrainHackGuide", "https://reddit.com/r/Biohackingher", "https://discord.gg/Mhq5UdRYBA" ], "knowsAbout": [ "Peptide research", "Nootropic research", "Biohacking", "Compound dosing", "Vendor transparency" ], "publishingPrinciples": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/editorial-standards", "ethicsPolicy": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/editorial-standards", "diversityPolicy": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/editorial-standards" } ] --- [Skip to content](#main-content) ## Research Use Only This site is an **educational resource** for research compounds. We do **not endorse** human consumption of any compound. BodyHackGuide and **BHG Labs share common ownership**; we rank every vendor on the same public methodology, and we earn a commission on purchases through our links. By entering, you confirm you are **21 years of age or older** and agree to our [Terms](/terms) & [Privacy Policy](/privacy). I'm 21+ — Enter SiteLeave site [![BodyHackGuide](/assets/bodyhackguide-logo-DOzZNUyh.webp)BodyHackGuide ](/) [Compare](/compare)[Wiki](/wiki)[Vendors](/vendors)[Deals](/deals)[Stacks](/stack-builder)[Nootropics](/nootropics)[Tools](/tools) Learn Community Search ⌘K [Sign In](/auth?returnTo=%2Fcompound%2Fmelanotan-i) 100K+ researchers trust BodyHackGuide — Join [r/BodyHackGuide](https://reddit.com/r/bodyhackguide) 1. [Home](/) 2. [Compounds](/compare) 3. Melanotan I ![Ion Peptide logo](https://ionpeptide.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ion-peptide-logo-1-300x148.jpg) Best price right now $3.50/mg · $35.00 for 10mg at Ion Peptide [Buy at Ion Peptide](https://www.bodyhackguide.co/go/ion-peptide?utm_source=compound-sticky-bar&utm_campaign=9de1088d-2da7-4294-a94d-663508b424e3&utm_medium=best-price-cta) [Where to buy Melanotan I](/buy/melanotan-i) [Melanotan I coupon codes](/coupons/melanotan-i) [Melanotan I protocol](/protocol/melanotan-i) [Alternatives to Melanotan I](/alternatives-to/melanotan-i) [Melanotan I side effects](/side-effects/melanotan-i) 1. [Home](/) 3. [Compounds](/compare) 5. Melanotan I # Melanotan I Other FDA Approved Download PDF Also known as: Afamelanotide, CUV1647, Scenesse, alpha-MSH analog, \[Nle4,D-Phe7\]-alpha-MSH (linear) Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a linear synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) with the substitution of norleucine at position 4 and D-phenylalanine at position 7. Unlike Melanotan II (which is cyclic), Melanotan I is a linear peptide that is significantly more selective for MC1R over MC4R — making it a tanning/photoprotective agent with substantially less sexual and appetite-stimulating side effects. Half-Life: Controlled-release subcutaneous implant (Scenesse): high inter-subject variability; median Tmax ~36 h, mean Cmax ~3.7 ng/mL, apparent terminal half-life ~15 h, with plasma levels measurable to ~96 h post-dose (FDA pharmacokinetics, n=12). Injected/bolus free peptide: peak plasma at ~1-2 h with an elimination half-life of ~30 minutes; the Nle4/D-Phe7 modifications prolong biological (melanogenic) activity well beyond plasma clearance. Route: Subcutaneous, Intramuscular MW: 1646.85 g/mol (average; molecular formula C78H111N21O19) Last reviewed: Sep 3, 2026 [ Other Category ](/wiki#cat-other) FDA Approved Research Stage OverviewChemical InfoDosing & ProtocolsInteractionsResearchCompare Prices2 Related ## Overview ### Best Price Available ![Ion Peptide logo](https://ionpeptide.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ion-peptide-logo-1-300x148.jpg) Ion Peptide $19.00 1 vial · vial [Buy Now](https://ionpeptide.com/product/melanotan-i/?ref=reddit15) Compare 1 vendor ### At A Glance Mechanism Melanotan I is afamelanotide, i.e. \[Nle4, D-Phe7\]-alpha-MSH ('NDP-alpha-MSH'), a synthetic 13-amino-acid analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone. The Nle4 and D-Phe7 substitutions make it resistant to enzymatic breakdown and roughly 10-100x more potent than native alpha-MS… Half-Life Controlled-release subcutaneous implant (Scenesse): high inter-subject variability; median Tmax ~36 h, mean Cmax ~3.7 ng/mL, apparent terminal half-life ~15 h, with plasma levels measurable to ~96 h post-dose (FDA pharmacokinetics, n=12). Injected/bolus free peptide: peak plasma at ~1-2 h with an elimination half-life of ~30 minutes; the Nle4/D-Phe7 modifications prolong biological (melanogenic) activity well beyond plasma clearance. Dosing every 1 to 4 weeks Dose Range 16000mcg Routes Subcutaneous Intramuscular Common Vials 5mg 10mg Potential Benefits Increased melanin (eumelanin) production and skin darkening via MC1R activation, with a reduced UV requirement FDA-approved photoprotection in erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) as the Scenesse 16 mg subcutaneous implant \[PMID:26132941\] Reduced phototoxic pain and improved quality of life in EPP patients in randomized controlled trials \[PMID:26132941\] Tends to produce fewer MC4R-type effects (spontaneous erections, strong libido, marked nausea) than the cyclic Melanotan II - attributable to Melanotan II's greater potency and metabolic stability, not to true MC1R selectivity of Melanotan I Investigated in research settings for photoprotection in UV-sensitive populations Safety Notes Common Nausea (typically milder and less frequent than with Melanotan II) Facial flushing Headache Fatigue Skin hyperpigmentation; darkening of existing moles, freckles and nevi Serious Darkening or change in appearance of moles/nevi - requires baseline and periodic full-skin dermatologic monitoring Long-term safety of chronic melanocortin stimulation, including any effect on melanoma risk, is not established In the pivotal EPP implant trials serious adverse events were not considered drug-related \[PMID:26132941\] ### Overview Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a linear synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) with the substitution of norleucine at position 4 and D-phenylalanine at position 7. Unlike Melanotan II (which is cyclic), Melanotan I is a linear peptide that is significantly more selective for MC1R over MC4R — making it a tanning/photoprotective agent with substantially less sexual and appetite-stimulating side effects. Afamelanotide was FDA-approved in October 2019 under the brand name Scenesse as an implant for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a rare photosensitivity disorder. Melanotan I is meaningfully different from Melanotan II in structure, selectivity, and side-effect profile and should not be confused with it. ## Chemical Information IUPAC Name Not yet available CAS Number Not yet available Molecular Formula Not yet available Molecular Mass 1646.85 Da (C78H111N21O19; PubChem CID 16197727) Amino Acid Sequence Ac-Ser-Tyr-Ser-Nle-Glu-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Gly-Lys-Pro-Val-NH2 (\[Nle4, D-Phe7\]-alpha-MSH / NDP-alpha-MSH; 13-residue analog of alpha-MSH, N-acetylated with a C-terminal amide) ## Dosing & Protocols ### Unlock Dosing Protocols Free account gets you: - View beginner, intermediate & advanced protocols - See weight-based dosing calculations - Access cycle length & frequency data [Create free account](/auth)[Sign in](/auth) 2,800+ researchers already in ## Research ### Unlock Research Data Free account gets you: - Browse PubMed study summaries - See clinical trial phases & results - Access mechanism of action details [Create free account](/auth)[Sign in](/auth) 2,800+ researchers already in ## Interactions Interaction and contraindication data is being compiled for Melanotan I. Check back soon. General Safety Note Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before combining research compounds. Interactions may exist that are not yet documented. Best Price $19.00 up to $35.00 Best $/mg $3.5000 Vendors 1 Listings 2 vial [Sign in for alerts ](/auth) Dosage All5mg (1) 10mg (1) Form Allvial Sort Price $/mg Vendor Vendor Product Form Qty Price $/mg Coupon ![Ion Peptide logo](https://ionpeptide.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ion-peptide-logo-1-300x148.jpg) [Ion Peptide](/vendor/ion-peptide) [70 ](/vendor-trust-scorecard) 🇺🇸 US 🌍 International Melanotan I 5mg vial 1 vial ● Out of Stock $19.00 BEST $3.800 — [Sign in for stock alert](/auth) ![Ion Peptide logo](https://ionpeptide.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ion-peptide-logo-1-300x148.jpg) [Ion Peptide](/vendor/ion-peptide) [70 ](/vendor-trust-scorecard) 🇺🇸 US 🌍 International Melanotan I 10mg vial 1 vial ● In Stock $35.00 VALUE $3.500 — [Buy](https://ionpeptide.com/product/melanotan-i/?ref=reddit15) Get Melanotan I Price Drop Alerts Set a target price and we'll notify you when any vendor drops below it. Current lowest: $19.00 [Sign in to set alerts](/auth) ### Sign in to leave a review Reviews on BodyHackGuide are tied to verified user accounts and moderated before publishing. Sign in (free, no spam) to share your experience with Melanotan I. [Sign in](/auth) Current low $35.00 as of Apr 22, 2026 7-day low — no 7d data yet 30-day low — no 30d data yet 30-day change — baseline building Tracking since Apr 22, 2026 · 2 data points ### Vendors Selling Melanotan I [ ![Ion Peptide logo](https://ionpeptide.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ion-peptide-logo-1-300x148.jpg) #### Ion Peptide 4.5 2 listings · from $19.00 ](/vendor/ion-peptide) How we score these vendors Every supplier above is graded 0–100 on COA verification, payment transparency, shipping, reviews, and active listings. Methodology published, no pay-to-rank. [View Scorecard](/vendors/scorecard) ### Related Compounds [View All](/wiki) [ ### Aminotadalafil Other Preclinical Aminotadalafil is an unapproved research analog of tadalafil, the PDE5 inhibitor marketed under the brand name Cialis for erectile dysfunction and under Adcirca for pulmonary arterial hypertension. 2.5 mg - 20 mg (oral) 9 studies View Profile ](/compound/aminotadalafil)[ ### B7-33 Other Preclinical B7-33 is a single-chain, 26-amino-acid peptide engineered as a functionally selective agonist of the relaxin family peptide receptor 1 (RXFP1), designed to recapitulate the therapeutic activity of human H2 relaxin — the endogenous peptide hormone that is naturally elevated during pregnancy and has broad cardioprotective, vasodilatory, and anti-fibrotic effects. t½ In vitro serum-stability half-life is approximately 6 minutes; B7-33 is rapidly degraded (a lipidated analog extended this to ~60 minutes in the same assay). Human in vivo pharmacokinetics are unpublished, and rapid clearance is expected for a small linear peptide (Praveen et al. 2023, PMID 37047588). 500-4000 mcg subcutaneous per injection (community/self-report research doses; most commonly ~1000 mcg / 1 mg once daily). No validated human dose exists - all figures are empirical extrapolations from rodent pharmacology. 11 studies View Profile ](/compound/b7-33)[ ### Kisspeptin-10 (KSPTN) Other Clinical (investigational) KSPTN is the vendor shorthand for kisspeptin, a naturally occurring peptide encoded by the KISS1 gene and the master upstream regulator of the reproductive (hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal) hormone axis. t½ Kisspeptin-10: very short, reported on the order of ~4 minutes (rapid plasma clearance). Kisspeptin-54 is longer-acting (tens of minutes). The brief half-life is why human studies dose it intravenously by bolus or continuous infusion. 20-100 Preclinical View Profile ](/compound/ksptn)[ ### PNC-27 Other Preclinical PNC-27 is a p53-derived peptide that selectively induces membranolysis in cancer cells. t½ Unknown (no published PK data) 0 Preclinical View Profile ](/compound/pnc-27)[ ### Prostamax Other Preclinical Prostamax is a short synthetic peptide developed in Russia by Vladimir Khavinson and collaborators at the St. t½ Not characterized in published pharmacokinetic literature 10 mg oral capsule, 1-2 daily for 10-30 days 6 studies View Profile ](/compound/prostamax)[ ### RU-58841 Other Preclinical RU-58841 (also known as PSK-3841 or HMR-3841, and commonly written simply as RU in hair-loss forums) is a non-steroidal androgen receptor antagonist originally developed by Roussel Uclaf (later absorbed into Sanofi) in the late 1980s and early 1990s. 25 mg - 50 mg topical daily (dissolved in vehicle) 11 studies View Profile ](/compound/ru-58841) ### Side-by-Side Comparisons [All Comparisons](/compare) [Melanotan I vs Melanotan II](/compare/melanotan-i-vs-melanotan-ii "Melanotan I vs Melanotan Ii") [ View Full Dosage Guide → Protocols, calculator & safety for Melanotan I ](/guides/dosage/melanotan-i) ### Related Articles [All Posts](/blog) [ #### The Best Peptide Nasal Sprays of 2026, Ranked by Evidence Evidence-tiered review of 10 peptide nasal sprays — Semax, Selank, Oxytocin (S); PT-141, DSIP, Epithalon (A); Noopept, NAD+, 5-Amino-1MQ (B); Melanotan-II (C). Human-trial counts, PMID citations, safety, dosing, and pre-made vs DIY tradeoffs. Tiers match the live pillar scorecard. 4/21/2026 ](/blog/best-peptide-nasal-sprays-2026)[ #### How to Make a Peptide Nasal Spray at Home — The Complete DIY Guide (2026) Full DIY protocol for reconstituting peptides into nasal sprays — Semax, Selank, oxytocin, DSIP, BPC-157. Reconstitution math, sterile technique, storage, pH/tonicity, safety. 11-step protocol with worked examples. 4/21/2026 ](/blog/how-to-make-peptide-nasal-spray-at-home)[ #### The Complete Peptide Reconstitution Guide — Every Peptide, Every Ratio, Every Pitfall (2026) The master reconstitution reference for 17 peptides. BAC vs SWFI vs acetic acid, mg/mL targets, IU math on U100 syringes, storage and stability by peptide class, sterile technique, and the mistakes that destroy $60 vials. Includes worked examples for BPC-157, TB-500, GHK-Cu, semaglutide, tirzepatide, CJC-1295, ipamorelin, sermorelin, GHRPs, Melanotan II, PT-141, oxytocin, Semax, Selank, DSIP, and epithalon. 4/21/2026 ](/blog/complete-peptide-reconstitution-guide-2026) ### Best Price ![Ion Peptide logo](https://ionpeptide.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ion-peptide-logo-1-300x148.jpg) Ion Peptide $19.00 [Buy Now](https://ionpeptide.com/product/melanotan-i/?ref=reddit15) 1 vendors · 2 listings ### Research Score 45 0 PubMed studies ### Quality Indicators Data Completeness 63% Description Mechanism of Action Chemical Data Dosing Protocols Safety Profile PubMed Studies Interactions Vendor Listings ### Quick Facts Half-Life Controlled-release subcutaneous implant (Scenesse): high inter-subject variability; median Tmax ~36 h, mean Cmax ~3.7 ng/mL, apparent terminal half-life ~15 h, with plasma levels measurable to ~96 h post-dose (FDA pharmacokinetics, n=12). Injected/bolus free peptide: peak plasma at ~1-2 h with an elimination half-life of ~30 minutes; the Nle4/D-Phe7 modifications prolong biological (melanogenic) activity well beyond plasma clearance. Molecular Weight 1646.85 Da (C78H111N21O19; PubChem CID 16197727) Administration Subcutaneous, Intramuscular Trial Phase FDA Approved ### Safety Profile Common Side Effects - • Nausea (typically milder and less frequent than with Melanotan II) - • Facial flushing - • Headache - • Fatigue - • Skin hyperpigmentation; darkening of existing moles, freckles and nevi [Full Dosage Guide](/guides/dosage/melanotan-i)[Calculate Your Dose](/tools/reconstitution) Research Disclaimer This information is for educational and research purposes only. Not intended as medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before use. ## Frequently Asked Questions What is Melanotan I used for in research? Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a linear synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) with the substitution of norleucine at position 4 and D-phenylalanine at position 7. Unlike Melanotan II (which is cyclic), Melanotan I is a linear peptide that is significantly more selective for MC1R over MC4R — making it a tanning/photoprotective agent with substantially less sexual and appetite-stimulating side effects. Afamelanotide was FDA-approved in October 2019 under the brand name Scenesse as an implant for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a rare photosensitivity disorder. Melanotan I is meaningfully different from Melanotan II in structure, selectivity, and side-effect profile and should not be confused with it. What forms does Melanotan I come in? Melanotan I is available in vial form. How much does Melanotan I cost? Prices start at $19.00 across 1 verified vendor. How do I compare Melanotan I vendors? Compare prices, payment methods, shipping, and COA scores across 1 vendor. ## Research Tools [ ### Peptide Calculator Reconstitution & syringe units ](/tools/reconstitution)[ ### Reconstitution Guide How to mix, step by step ](/guides/how-to-reconstitute-peptides)[ ### Nasal Spray Calc mL per actuation ](/tools/intranasal)[ ### Half-Life Visualizer Decay curves ](/tools/halflife) ## Related Compounds [View All](/wiki) [ ### Aminotadalafil Other Preclinical Aminotadalafil is an unapproved research analog of tadalafil, the PDE5 inhibitor marketed under the brand name Cialis for erectile dysfunction and under Adcirca for pulmonary arterial hypertension. 2.5 mg - 20 mg (oral) 9 studies View Profile ](/compound/aminotadalafil)[ ### B7-33 Other Preclinical B7-33 is a single-chain, 26-amino-acid peptide engineered as a functionally selective agonist of the relaxin family peptide receptor 1 (RXFP1), designed to recapitulate the therapeutic activity of human H2 relaxin — the endogenous peptide hormone that is naturally elevated during pregnancy and has broad cardioprotective, vasodilatory, and anti-fibrotic effects. t½ In vitro serum-stability half-life is approximately 6 minutes; B7-33 is rapidly degraded (a lipidated analog extended this to ~60 minutes in the same assay). Human in vivo pharmacokinetics are unpublished, and rapid clearance is expected for a small linear peptide (Praveen et al. 2023, PMID 37047588). 500-4000 mcg subcutaneous per injection (community/self-report research doses; most commonly ~1000 mcg / 1 mg once daily). No validated human dose exists - all figures are empirical extrapolations from rodent pharmacology. 11 studies View Profile ](/compound/b7-33)[ ### Kisspeptin-10 (KSPTN) Other Clinical (investigational) KSPTN is the vendor shorthand for kisspeptin, a naturally occurring peptide encoded by the KISS1 gene and the master upstream regulator of the reproductive (hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal) hormone axis. t½ Kisspeptin-10: very short, reported on the order of ~4 minutes (rapid plasma clearance). Kisspeptin-54 is longer-acting (tens of minutes). The brief half-life is why human studies dose it intravenously by bolus or continuous infusion. 20-100 Preclinical View Profile ](/compound/ksptn)[ ### PNC-27 Other Preclinical PNC-27 is a p53-derived peptide that selectively induces membranolysis in cancer cells. t½ Unknown (no published PK data) 0 Preclinical View Profile ](/compound/pnc-27)[ ### Prostamax Other Preclinical Prostamax is a short synthetic peptide developed in Russia by Vladimir Khavinson and collaborators at the St. t½ Not characterized in published pharmacokinetic literature 10 mg oral capsule, 1-2 daily for 10-30 days 6 studies View Profile ](/compound/prostamax)[ ### RU-58841 Other Preclinical RU-58841 (also known as PSK-3841 or HMR-3841, and commonly written simply as RU in hair-loss forums) is a non-steroidal androgen receptor antagonist originally developed by Roussel Uclaf (later absorbed into Sanofi) in the late 1980s and early 1990s. 25 mg - 50 mg topical daily (dissolved in vehicle) 11 studies View Profile ](/compound/ru-58841) ## Side-by-Side Comparisons [All Comparisons](/compare) Compare Melanotan I head-to-head: mechanism, half-life, dosing, safety, and live pricing. [Melanotan I vs Melanotan II](/compare/melanotan-i-vs-melanotan-ii "Melanotan I vs Melanotan Ii") Free 2026 Peptide Cheat Sheet — 50 pages, PDF Reconstitution math, concentration charts, half-lives, and vendor trust tiers. The reference we wish we had on day one. [Download Free](/guides/peptide-cheat-sheet-download?utm_source=compound-melanotan-i) ### Need bloodwork before starting? Full hormone + metabolic panels from Anabolic Insights. Code CHONCH for first-order discount. [Order Bloodwork](https://anabolicinsights.ai/?ref=nwm2zjb) ![BodyHackGuide](/assets/bodyhackguide-logo-DOzZNUyh.webp) ### BodyHackGuide Your biohacking research hub — compound pricing, brain health protocols, dosing tools, and vendor reviews. [support@bodyhackguide.co](mailto:support@bodyhackguide.co) [](https://discord.gg/Mhq5UdRYBA)[](https://reddit.com/r/BodyHackGuide)[](https://x.com/bodyhackguide) Explore #### Explore - [Compare prices](/compare) - [Research suppliers](/vendors) - [Deals](/deals) - [Coupons](/coupons) - [Nootropics](/nootropics) - [Brain health](/brain-health) - [Blog](/blog) - [Guides](/guides) Tools #### Tools - [Reconstitution](/tools/reconstitution) - [Dosage calculator](/tools/dosage) - [Half-life visualizer](/tools/halflife) - [COA lookup](/tools/coa) - [Cost calculator](/tools/cost-calculator) - [Stack builder](/stack-builder) - [All tools →](/tools) Trust & vendors #### Trust & vendors - [Vendor directory](/vendors) - [Trust scorecard](/vendors/scorecard) - [Get BHG verified](/vendors/get-vetted) - [Scoring methodology](/vendors/methodology) - [Peptide cheatsheet](/guides/peptide-cheat-sheet-download) Company #### Company - [About](/about) - [Affiliate disclosure](/affiliate-disclosure) - [Editorial standards](/editorial-standards) - [Creators](/creators) - [Coaches](/coaches) - [Privacy](/privacy) - [Terms](/terms) - [Full site directory →](/site-directory) **Ownership & Affiliate Disclosure:** BodyHackGuide and BHG Labs share common ownership. 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