Melanotan I (Afamelanotide)
Aliases: Afamelanotide · Scenesse · Melanotan-1 · CUV1647 · MT-1 · Melanotan 1
Last verified: 2026-09-23
The short version
A linear α-MSH analogue — FDA/EMA approved (Scenesse) as an implant for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) photoprotection. Darkens skin by increasing melanin.
Identity & type
- Molecular type
- peptide
- Origin
- A linear α-MSH analogue — FDA/EMA approved (Scenesse) as an implant for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) photoprotection.
Mechanism of action
MC1R agonist on melanocytes → increased eumelanin synthesis → skin darkening and UV protection.
Dosing & routes
Official / clinical context
Approved drug — indications, dosing and warnings are defined by the official label. Approved: 16 mg SC implant every 2 months. Gray market: 0.5–1 mg/day SC until desired tone.
Regulator-approved labeling and published study designs — never a recommendation.
Community-reported practice
Approved: 16 mg SC implant every 2 months. Gray market: 0.5–1 mg/day SC until desired tone. Gradual skin darkening (1–3 weeks) with less "libido" effect than MT-2; the approved version (Scenesse) shows real photoprotection in EPP patients.
Unverified self-reports. Not medical advice. Not endorsement.
Expected effects (community)
Gradual skin darkening (1–3 weeks) with less "libido" effect than MT-2; the approved version (Scenesse) shows real photoprotection in EPP patients.
Protocol — official vs community
Official / label
Afamelanotide (Scenesse): 16 mg SC implant every 2 months, administered by a healthcare professional, for erythropoietic protoporphyria.
- 01No self-titration — clinic-administered implant
Duration: Continuous, implant-based.
This is what a regulated melanocortin product looks like: indication-locked, professionally administered, monitored.
Community (anecdotal)
Gray-market afamelanotide vials: 1–2 mg SC 2–3× weekly 'loading', then maintenance.
- Cycle:
- Loading 2–4 weeks, then weekly maintenance.
- Break:
- None documented.
Self-injecting an implant drug forfeits the monitoring that made it approvable.
Human evidence
Approved for EPP (EU 2014, FDA 2019). Also studied for vitiligo and general photoprotection.
Preclinical evidence
The preclinical phase was completed and submitted to regulators as part of registration; pharmacology and toxicology details are part of the official label.
Known risks
- Nausea, flushing, darkening of moles/freckles, fatigue.characterized
- Long-term safety outside EPP unknown.characterized
Teal: characterized in clinical/labeling contexts. Amber: theoretical or reported outside controlled settings.
Unknowns & evidence gaps
- Long-term safety in off-label use