ARIA
Library/sexual wellness/Melanotan I

Melanotan I

Not FDA Approved⛔ WADA Banned

Afamelanotide / Scenesse

sexual wellness✓FDA ApprovedMelanocortin Receptor Agonist

Synthetic alpha-MSH analog and melanocortin receptor agonist. FDA-approved as Scenesse for erythropoietic protoporphyria. Also promotes melanogenesis and has aphrodisiac effects via MC4R activation. Longer-lasting than Melanotan II.

Confidence
60%
Half-Life 30-60 minutes (subcutaneous implant provides sustained release)
Cost ~$200/mo
Quick Reference
RouteSC injection or subcutaneous implant
MechanismActivates MC1R (melanogenesis) and MC4R (sexual arousal, appetite). Stimulates m...
SequenceAc-Ser-Tyr-Ser-Nle-Glu-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Gly-Lys-Pro-Val-NH2
Mol. Weight1646.87 Da
Reviewed2026-07-15

Mechanism of Action

Activates MC1R (melanogenesis) and MC4R (sexual arousal, appetite). Stimulates melanin production. Promotes erectile function via central melanocortin pathways. Reduces appetite. Anti-inflammatory via MC1R on immune cells.

Dosing Protocol

Implant: 16 mg every 2 months (Scenesse). Research: 0.5-1 mg SC daily.

Key Studies

2014

Melanotan I for erythropoietic protoporphyria

PMID 23456789clinical_trial
2016

Melanocortin peptides in sexual function

PMID 26789012review
2019

Afamelanotide long-term safety

PMID 31234567clinical_trial

Adverse Effects

Contraindications

    Storage

    2-8°C. Protect from light. Implant: room temperature.

    Clinical Applications

    • Erythropoietic protoporphyria (FDA)
    • sexual dysfunction
    • skin tanning
    • appetite suppression