Melanotan I
Afamelanotide — MC1R-selective alpha-MSH analog. FDA and EU-approved as Scenesse for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) photoprotection. Stimulates eumelanin production with significantly less off-target activity than Melanotan II.
Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) with selective affinity for the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R). MC1R activation drives eumelanin synthesis in skin melanocytes — the dark pigment form that provides photoprotection against UV-induced damage.
Compared to Melanotan II (a non-selective melanocortin agonist), MT-I’s selectivity for MC1R substantially reduces activity at MC3R and MC4R, minimizing the sexual arousal and appetite suppression effects seen with MT-II. This improved selectivity profile supported clinical development for photoprotection without the off-target safety concerns.
Scenesse (afamelanotide 16mg bioresorbable implant) received EMA approval in 2014 and FDA approval in 2019 for prevention of phototoxicity in adults with EPP — the first drug approved for this indication. Research vial use is off-label; the approved formulation is a subcutaneous implant, not an injectable solution.
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Phase III safety data from Scenesse trials. Common effects: nausea, fatigue, headache, injection site reactions. Hyperpigmentation. The approved formulation is a bioresorbable implant — injectable research-vial use is off-label. WADA-prohibited (S4 Hormone class). Not for use in individuals with a history of melanoma or suspicious lesions. All information for educational reference only.