Melanotan I

A profile on the safer, milder alternative to Melanotan II, used for tanning with fewer side effects.

Melanotan I

Melanotan I (Afamelanotide) is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It is the predecessor to Melanotan II.

While Melanotan II is famous for rapid results and heavy side effects (nausea, unwanted erections), Melanotan I is much more selective. It stimulates tanning (melanogenesis) without crossing the blood-brain barrier as aggressively, resulting in a much cleaner experience.

Quick Specs

PropertyValue
Active CompoundAfamelanotide
Half-Life~30-60 Minutes
MechanismMC1 Receptor Agonist
AdministrationSubcutaneous (SubQ)

Mechanism of Action

Melanotan I binds primarily to the MC1 receptor (located in the skin).

  • Selectivity: It has very low affinity for the MC3/MC4 receptors in the brain, which are responsible for the appetite suppression and sexual arousal/nausea effects seen with Melanotan II.
  • Result: It produces melanin (tan) without messing with your brain chemistry.

Pharmacokinetics & Dosing

Dosing Protocol

Melanotan I is less potent than MT2, requiring higher doses and longer duration to work.

  • Dosage: 1mg - 2mg per day. (Compare to MT2's 0.25mg).
  • Frequency: Daily during loading phase.
  • Duration: It may take 3-4 weeks to see significant tanning, compared to 1 week with MT2.

Primary Effects

1. Tanning

Increases the skin's tolerance to UV rays and darkens pigmentation.

2. Photoprotection

Clinically approved (as Scenesse) to treat erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a condition where sunlight causes pain. It protects skin from burning.

Side Effects & Harm Reduction

The Trade-off:

Why Choose MT1? If you cannot tolerate the severe nausea, facial flushing, or spontaneous erections of Melanotan II, Melanotan I is the answer. It is significantly more expensive (due to higher doses needed), but the side effect profile is almost non-existent.

1. Slow Onset

Patience is required. Do not increase the dose just because you aren't brown in 3 days.

Tracking Melanotan I

Using the Anabolic Tracker app:

  1. Inventory: Add Melanotan I.
  2. Scheduling: Daily.
  3. Metrics: Track Skin Tone (Photos).

Disclaimer:

This guide is for informational purposes only.

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