Afamelanotide Research: What 136 Studies Show (2026) | RetatrutideCompare

Afamelanotide — 136 studies indexed on PubMed. Selective MC1R-preferring agonist; stimulates eumelanin synthesis in melanocytes, providing photoprotection. Half-life: ~30 minutes (formulated as long-acting subcutaneous implant). FDA status: FDA-approved (2019, Scenesse implant).

PubMed search-result count last fetched 2026-06-18. Records may include reviews, laboratory work, and animal studies; this is not a clinical trial count or a measure of efficacy.

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How many studies have been published on Afamelanotide?

There are approximately 136 studies indexed on PubMed that mention Afamelanotide (Melanotan I, Scenesse), based on a search last updated 2026-06-18.

Is Afamelanotide FDA-approved?

FDA status: FDA-approved (2019, Scenesse implant).

How does Afamelanotide work?

Selective MC1R-preferring agonist; stimulates eumelanin synthesis in melanocytes, providing photoprotection.

Selective MC1R-preferring agonist; stimulates eumelanin synthesis in melanocytes, providing photoprotection.

Reference facts

Also known as
Melanotan I, Scenesse, [Nle⁴, D-Phe⁷]-α-MSH
Category
Sexual Health & MSH
Mechanism of action
Selective MC1R-preferring agonist; stimulates eumelanin synthesis in melanocytes, providing photoprotection.
Targets
MC1R
Indications under research or approved
Erythropoietic Protoporphyria (EPP), Adult variegate porphyria (orphan)
Regulatory status (reference entry)
FDA-approved (2019, Scenesse implant)
Half-life
~30 minutes (formulated as long-acting subcutaneous implant)
Sequence notes
Linear analog Ac-Ser-Tyr-Ser-Nle-Glu-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Gly-Lys-Pro-Val-NH2; 13 residues.
Molecular weight (Da)
1647
Originator / sponsor
Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals
First reported
1980

Primary References

Explore research articles about Afamelanotide

This is an educational reference, not medical advice. Research findings do not establish safety or efficacy for self-administration. Consult the primary sources for study populations, limitations, and current regulatory status.