Melanotan II (MT-2)

5mg Vial

10mg Vial

2 September 2026Updated 2 September 2026

Melanotan II (MT-2)

Overview Research0 Mechanism Protocols Safety

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Full range of benefits for Melanotan II (MT-2)

Stimulates melanogenesis, increasing skin melanin and tanning

May reduce UV-induced erythema by raising photoprotective melanin

Can lower required UV exposure to achieve a visible tan

Associated with increased sexual desire and erectile response in some studies

Rapid onset of tanning compared with natural sun exposure reported

May darken existing nevi and freckles; warrants monitoring for changes

Acts via melanocortin receptors (MC1R/MC4R), explaining pigment and sexual effects

May transiently suppress appetite in some subjects

Useful as a research tool to study melanocortin pathway physiology

This peptide's combination-safety and interaction data below always stays visible, regardless of membership.

Warning

Important information. The data compiled from scientific literature is provided for educational purposes. Dosage ranges reflect what is reported in studies and do not constitute a recommendation, prescription, or usage guidance. Health decisions should always be made with a qualified professional.

Peptide Interactions

// 13 known interactions

Synergistic(3)Compatible(3)Monitor(3)Avoid(4)

Generally well-tolerated alongside this peptide

Petrolatum (topical emollients)

Inert skin emollients do not alter MT‑2 pharmacology and are safe for concurrent use to manage dryness or local injection site care.

Second‑generation antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine)

Non‑sedating antihistamines can be used to treat MT‑2–related flushing or pruritus and have no known adverse pharmacodynamic interaction with MT‑2.

Combined oral contraceptives

Hormonal contraceptives have no established interaction with MT‑2 and may be continued without special adjustment.

All interaction categories

Synergistic (3)

8‑Methoxypsoralen (PUVA): Oral or topical psoralen followed by UVA exposure potently increases melanogenesis and can augment MT‑2–induced tanning, but also raises phototoxicity risk.
L‑Tyrosine: Supplemental L‑tyrosine provides additional substrate for melanogenesis and may modestly enhance pigmentary response to MT‑2.
Copper supplementation: Copper is a cofactor for tyrosinase, and correcting deficiency can support melanin synthesis potentially increasing MT‑2 tanning efficacy.

Compatible (3)

Petrolatum (topical emollients): Inert skin emollients do not alter MT‑2 pharmacology and are safe for concurrent use to manage dryness or local injection site care.
Second‑generation antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine): Non‑sedating antihistamines can be used to treat MT‑2–related flushing or pruritus and have no known adverse pharmacodynamic interaction with MT‑2.
Combined oral contraceptives: Hormonal contraceptives have no established interaction with MT‑2 and may be continued without special adjustment.

Monitor (3)

Antihypertensive agents (e.g., beta‑blockers such as metoprolol): MT‑2 can produce transient increases in blood pressure and heart rate; concomitant antihypertensive therapy may require monitoring and dose adjustment of cardiovascular parameters.
Phosphodiesterase‑5 inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil): Co‑use may amplify cardiovascular and vasodilatory effects (flushing, hypotension, syncope) and warrants monitoring of blood pressure and symptomatic assessment.
Sympathomimetic agents (e.g., pseudoephedrine, epinephrine): Concurrent sympathomimetics can produce additive pressor effects with MT‑2, so blood pressure and cardiovascular status should be monitored closely.

Avoid (4)

Bremelanotide (PT‑141) and other melanocortin receptor agonists: Combining MT‑2 with other melanocortin agonists risks additive pharmacodynamic effects (marked hypertension, nausea, pronounced sexual stimulation) and should be avoided or carefully evaluated.
Photosensitizing drugs (e.g., doxycycline, vemurafenib): Agents that increase photosensitivity can raise the risk of phototoxic reactions and potentially increase carcinogenic risk when combined with MT‑2–driven tanning or phototherapy.
Stimulant medications (e.g., amphetamine class, methylphenidate): Central nervous system stimulants increase cardiovascular strain and sympathetic tone, which may compound MT‑2–related blood pressure and heart rate effects and require risk‑benefit reassessment.
Immunomodulatory agents affecting melanocyte biology (e.g., systemic corticosteroids, immune checkpoint inhibitors): Drugs that alter immune control of melanocytes can unpredictably modify pigmentation responses and lesion appearance with MT‑2, necessitating dermatologic review before co‑administration.