Melanotan II
Also known as: MT-2, MT-II
By GLPeptideSciences Editorial Team · How we evaluate evidence · Reviewed by Dr. George S. Watson, MD, Cardiothoracic Surgeon · Updated 2026-06-02
A melanocortin receptor agonist used unofficially for tanning and libido effects, with meaningful safety concerns and no approval for these uses.
What it is & how it works
What it is
Melanotan II is a melanocortin receptor agonist used unofficially to stimulate pigmentation (tanning), with libido effects that overlap its relative PT-141. It is not approved for these or any consumer uses.
How it is thought to work
By activating melanocortin receptors, it increases melanin production in the skin. The same receptor family also influences sexual-response and appetite pathways.
Safety leads here
For most compounds we discuss evidence first; for Melanotan II, safety is the headline. Reported concerns include nausea, blood-pressure changes, and changes to moles and new pigmented lesions — which is why melanoma vigilance is raised in the literature, and why regulators have warned against use. This is a cautionary entry, not an endorsement.
What it's discussed & studied for
- Skin tanning / pigmentation
- Libido (overlaps with the related compound PT-141)
Discussion of a use is not a claim that it works or is approved.
Research status
Not approved for tanning or any consumer use. Sold and used unofficially; regulators have issued warnings.
Evidence quality
Low-to-mixed, and overshadowed by safety concerns. Effects on pigmentation are real pharmacologically, but the risk profile is the headline.
Dosing discussion
No approved use or dose exists. Community protocols are unregulated and do not address the safety concerns below.
Educational summary of what is discussed in the literature and community — not a dosing recommendation or medical advice.
Safety & harm reduction
This is a compound where safety leads. Reported issues include nausea, blood-pressure changes, and — importantly — changes to moles and new pigmented lesions, which raises melanoma-vigilance concerns. Regulators have warned against use. Treat with serious caution.
Sourcing literacy
Unregulated and frequently impure. Given the safety concerns, sourcing risk compounds an already cautionary profile.
Selected literature
FAQ
Is Melanotan II safe?
It carries notable safety concerns, including changes to moles/pigmented lesions that warrant melanoma vigilance, plus nausea and blood-pressure effects. Regulators have warned against it. It is not approved.
How does it relate to PT-141?
Both act on melanocortin receptors. PT-141 (bremelanotide) has an approved formulation for a specific indication; Melanotan II does not, and its risk profile is a bigger concern.