Melanotan II Research: What 659 Studies Show (2026) | RetatrutideCompare

Melanotan II — 659 studies indexed on PubMed. Non-selective melanocortin agonist. Skin pigmentation via MC1R (eumelanin), libido via MC4R, appetite suppression via MC4R. Half-life: ~30 minutes (subcutaneous). FDA status: Not FDA-approved.

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.

Inspect the PubMed query and results

How many studies have been published on Melanotan II?

There are approximately 659 studies indexed on PubMed that mention Melanotan II (MT-II), based on a search last updated 2026-06-18.

Is Melanotan II FDA-approved?

FDA status: Not FDA-approved.

How does Melanotan II work?

Non-selective melanocortin agonist. Skin pigmentation via MC1R (eumelanin), libido via MC4R, appetite suppression via MC4R.

Non-selective melanocortin agonist. Skin pigmentation via MC1R (eumelanin), libido via MC4R, appetite suppression via MC4R.

Reference facts

Also known as
MT-II
Category
Sexual Health & MSH
Mechanism of action
Non-selective melanocortin agonist. Skin pigmentation via MC1R (eumelanin), libido via MC4R, appetite suppression via MC4R.
Targets
MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R
Indications under research or approved
Research only; underground use for tanning and libido
Regulatory status (reference entry)
Not FDA-approved
Half-life
~30 minutes (subcutaneous)
Sequence notes
Cyclic heptapeptide Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH2 — MT-II differs from PT-141 by a C-terminal amide instead of a free carboxyl.
Molecular weight (Da)
1024
First reported
1989
Origin
Designed at the University of Arizona by Mac Hadley and Victor Hruby.

Primary References

Explore research articles about Melanotan II

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.