MT-2, MT-II · Evidence-based safety and harm-reduction overview.
| Also known as | MT-2, MT-II |
| Category | Peptide (research chemical) |
| Class | Synthetic alpha-MSH analog (melanocortin-receptor agonist) |
| Route in anecdotal use | Subcutaneous or intramuscular injection |
| Half-life | Unknown in humans; estimated hours based on limited data |
| US legal status | Not FDA-approved; the FDA and other regulators have warned against it. Banned for sale as a consumer product in several countries. Research chemical only. |
Melanotan II is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH), a naturally occurring peptide that regulates melanin production and immune signaling. MT-II is designed to stimulate melanin synthesis, producing darker skin pigmentation (tanning). It also has effects on sexual function and appetite.
Melanotan II binds to melanocortin receptors (particularly MC1R and MC4R) on melanocytes and other cells. MC1R stimulation increases intracellular cAMP, triggering melanin synthesis and darker skin pigmentation. MC4R activation in the hypothalamus may affect appetite and sexual function. The systemic effects on blood pressure and heart rate are less well characterized but may involve MC3R and MC4R in the cardiovascular system.
Melanotan II was synthesized in the 1990s at the University of Arizona as a tanning research compound and potential melanoma vaccine candidate. Early studies in animals and small human groups showed potent tanning effects. The compound never completed FDA approval processes and was not commercialized as a pharmaceutical product. It became popular in internet communities in the 2000s as a recreational tanning agent. Several regulatory agencies issued warnings and seizures of products occurred. A related compound, bremelanotide (approved as Vyleesi in 2019 for female sexual dysfunction), provided some clinical validation of the melanocortin-receptor agonist class, but MT-II remains unapproved and associated with safety signals.
Small studies and extensive anecdote document tanning and sexual-function effects. A related compound, bremelanotide (PT-141), was approved by the FDA for female sexual dysfunction (Vyleesi). MT-II itself was never brought to market as a drug and has no approved therapeutic use. Notable safety signals have emerged in case reports and surveillance.
In anecdotal reports and early research, MT-II has been administered by subcutaneous or intramuscular injection at doses typically in the range of 0.5-1.0 milligrams, often repeatedly over days or weeks. No standard clinical dosing regimen exists. Wide variability in tanning response and systemic effects has been observed.
This is general research/context information, not medical advice or a recommended protocol.
MT-II is not typically stacked with other compounds in formal research. Anecdotal combination with tanning supplements or hormonal agents is not studied and is not recommended given the safety profile.
If you are going to research a compound, verifying identity and purity is the single most protective step. Independent analytical testing and sterile-handling supplies reduce risk.
Compare testing optionsRegulators have warned against it. Reported risks include nausea, blood-pressure effects, and changes to moles, including case reports linked to melanoma. It is not an approved product.
For rapid tanning and reported libido effects. The lack of regulation, case reports of serious adverse events, and melanoma signals are why we flag it as higher-risk.
Causality is not proven, but case reports of users developing irregular pigmented lesions and melanoma exist. Anyone with moles should monitor closely and avoid MT-II.
Bremelanotide (Vyleesi, FDA-approved for female sexual dysfunction) is a related melanocortin agonist with a more established safety profile, though it is not approved for tanning. Topical self-tanners and sunless tanning remain safer cosmetic options.
Anecdotal reports suggest visible tanning within days to weeks, which is faster than natural sun exposure. The rapid effects are part of its appeal but also underscores potent systemic activity.
Medical & legal disclaimer. This site is for informational and harm-reduction purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for a licensed healthcare professional. The compounds discussed are largely not approved by the FDA for human use and many are sold strictly as research chemicals 'not for human consumption.' Nothing here is an endorsement to purchase, possess, or use any substance. Laws vary by jurisdiction. Always consult a qualified physician and follow the law where you live.
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