Melanotan I (Afamelanotide)
Quick summary
A linear alpha-MSH analog that selectively activates the MC1 receptor involved in skin pigmentation. Research focus: MC1R signaling and melanogenesis. This page leads with SRP's low-and-slow starting dose.
Component structures:
2D structure
Overview
A linear alpha-MSH analog that selectively activates the MC1 receptor involved in skin pigmentation.
Looking for research material? Simple Research Peptides lists Melanotan I 10mg for laboratory research use.
Mechanism
A linear alpha-MSH analog that activates MC1R in melanocytes and increases eumelanin production.
Research areas
- MC1R signaling
- melanogenesis
Storage & reconstitution
Supplied as a freeze-dried (lyophilized) powder in a sealed vial. Unopened vials are generally kept cold and away from light. Labs usually reconstitute it with bacteriostatic or sterile water, letting the liquid run down the vial wall and swirling gently instead of shaking. The solution is then kept refrigerated.
Recommended starting dose (low and slow)
| Starting dose | Low end of the studied range: 250 mcg. |
|---|---|
| Frequency | Pending - to be added by SRP |
| Reconstitution | Examples: 10 mg vial + 3 mL water = 3.33 mg/mL. |
Studied higher doses
Studies have used doses up to the amounts below. Higher doses can be dangerous. Whether a person can reach them safely depends on height, weight, activity level, training and pre-existing conditions. We recommend following the lower starting dose above, and contacting SRP with any questions.
| Highest amount reported in studies | Top of the studied range: 1 mg. These are range tops, not verified ceilings. |
|---|
Route and timing
Route: Subcutaneous injection after reconstitution is the route most often described in research protocols.
Timing: Pending - to be added by SRP
Cycle length and repeat
Pending - to be added by SRP
Half-life
Approximate, for Bobby's review: Not well characterized in published research.
Side effects
Pending - to be added by SRP
Suggested bloodwork and monitoring
Draft, for Bobby's review: CBC and comprehensive metabolic panel (kidney and liver function, electrolytes) before starting and again after a few weeks; a skin and mole check at baseline.
Cautions
Pending - to be added by SRP
Reconstitution calculator
Math aid only. It converts the numbers you enter; it is not dosing advice. For research use only. Prefilled with this page's vial size, reconstitution and low-and-slow starting dose where known; change any value.
Frequently asked questions
What is Melanotan I (Afamelanotide) studied for?
In research it is studied for MC1R signaling and melanogenesis. A linear alpha-MSH analog that activates MC1R in melanocytes and increases eumelanin production.
How is Melanotan I (Afamelanotide) given in research?
Subcutaneous injection after reconstitution is the route most often described in research protocols. SRP has not yet published a frequency for this compound.
What amount should a researcher start with?
This page lists SRP's low-and-slow starting dose in the Recommended starting dose section. Higher amounts that appear in studies are listed separately with their safety context. Start with the lower dose and contact SRP with any questions.
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Last updated: October 19, 2026