Melanotan II Dosage: Protocols & the Safety Reality
Last updated May 19, 2026 · Reviewed by Grey Peptides Editorial Board · ✓ Primary-sourced
← Melanotan II encyclopedia entry · See also: PT-141 dosage · Regulatory tracker
Melanotan II is not approved by the FDA or other major regulators and is sold grey-market as a "tanning peptide." Beyond the usual unknowns of an unregulated injectable, it carries specific, documented safety concerns — changes to moles and new pigmented lesions, priapism, nausea, and blood-pressure effects. The figures below are community reports for education, not instructions for use.
The short version
Melanotan II is a synthetic analog of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone that nonselectively activates melanocortin receptors. Activating MC1R drives melanogenesis (the basis for its use as a "tanning" agent), while activity at MC4R explains its effects on libido and appetite. It is closely related to bremelanotide (the molecule in the approved drug Vyleesi), but Melanotan II itself was never developed to approval and reaches users entirely through the grey market.
What community protocols report
The commonly described two-phase pattern is below. It is documented here so readers recognize it — it is not a recommendation, and it does not account for the safety issues that follow.
| Phase | Reported amount | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loading | ~0.25–1 mg | Daily | SubQ |
| Maintenance | ~0.25–1 mg | 2–3× weekly | SubQ |
"Loading then maintenance" reflects a belief that pigment is built up and then sustained. Some users start at the very low end specifically because nausea and flushing are dose-related — but lower nausea does not make the deeper risks go away.
Skin lesions: Melanotan II can darken existing moles and prompt new pigmented lesions, which complicates melanoma surveillance — dermatologists have reported cases and warned about it. Priapism: prolonged, sometimes painful erections are a recognized effect via melanocortin activity. Acute effects: nausea, facial flushing, and blood-pressure changes are common. These are the reasons multiple regulators advise against it — they are not avoided simply by dosing low.
Where Melanotan II stands legally
Melanotan II was on the FDA 503A Category 2 list and, on April 15, 2026, was among the peptides removed from Category 2 after nominations were withdrawn — which is not approval. It is slated for PCAC review by early 2027. It remains an unapproved grey-market product in the meantime; see the Regulatory Status Tracker.
Frequently asked questions
Is "nasal" Melanotan II safer than injecting?
Route does not resolve the core problems — the pigment-lesion, priapism, and cardiovascular concerns are pharmacologic, not specific to injection — and an unregulated product remains unverified whatever the route.
How is it different from PT-141?
They are related melanocortin agonists, but bremelanotide (PT-141) reached approval as Vyleesi for a specific indication, whereas Melanotan II did not and is used grey-market for tanning. See the PT-141 dosage page.
Should moles be monitored?
Anyone who has used it should have new or changing pigmented lesions evaluated by a clinician; this is the single most emphasized caution in the literature.
Sources
- Dermatology case reports of changing melanocytic lesions associated with Melanotan use; regulatory warnings (FDA; TGA).
- King SH, et al. Melanocortin pharmacology and effects of melanotan peptides.
- U.S. FDA — 503A bulk drug substances list update and Category 2 removals, April 15, 2026; PCAC review schedule.
Medical disclaimer: Education only, not medical advice. Melanotan II is not approved for human use and carries serious documented risks. Dosing figures reflect community reports, not a recommendation. Do not self-administer; consult a licensed clinician.