Melanotan 2 description
Melanotan 2 is a synthetic analog of the peptide hormone α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH), which belongs to the group of melanocortin peptides. These melanocortin peptides are natural hormones involved in pigmentation, energy homeostasis, sexual function, the immune system, inflammation, and the cardiovascular system. Melanotan II mimics the action of melanocortin peptides non-selectively.
Melanin and melanocytes
Melanin is a dark pigment mainly responsible for skin color. In its function, melanin serves as protection against UV radiation. Melanin is produced by a process called melanogenesis by melanocytes - melanin-producing cells from the neural crest found in the lowest layer (stratum basale) of the epidermis of the skin, the middle layer of the eye (uvea), the inner ear, the vaginal epithelium, the meninges, the bones and the heart. Typically, between 1000 and 2000 melanocytes are found per square millimeter of skin, or about 5 to 10% of the cells in the basal layer of the epidermis. Although their size can vary, melanocytes are usually 7 μm long. Once melanin is synthesized, it resides in specialized organelles called melanosomes that can be transported to nearby keratinocytes to trigger pigmentation. Melanocytes also play a role in the immune system.
Mechanism of action
Melanotan 2 acts as a non-selective agonist of the MC1, MC3, MC4 and MC5 melanocortin receptors. Melanotan II is thought to induce melanogenesis through activation of the MC1 receptor, whereas the clinically documented sexual effects are due to its ability to activate the MC4 receptor (although it is thought that the MC3 receptor may also be involved). Increased melanin production helps protect the hypodermis, the layer under the skin, from damaging UV-B light. Melanin absorbs UV-B light, preventing it from penetrating the skin layer.
Mode of action of melanotan
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Clinical studies have shown that the use of Melanotan 2 significantly promotes natural melanogenesis. The associated increased melanin production promotes faster and stronger tanning of skin exposed to the sun's ultraviolet rays, while improving its natural resistance to sunburn. In this way, Melanotan 2 can help protect the skin from the harmful effects of UV rays and prevent skin cancer. Melanotan 2 also significantly increases libido and sexual activity and suppresses the feeling of hunger.
Scientifically investigated possible benefits of Melanotan 2
- MTII may help reduce body fat by suppressing feelings of hunger
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- MTII increases libido
Melanotan 2 possible short term side-effects after administration
- Decreased appetite, nausea, and vomiting
- Spontaneous erections in males 1-5 hours after administration
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- Burning and redness around the application
High blood pressure
- Headache
Long term use concerns, Melanotan may increase the risk of
- Hyperpigmentation, deepening of the colour of moles, new moles and atypical melanocytic naevi
- Encephalopathy syndrome
- Melanoma
Melanotan 2 FAQ
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Can Melanotan 2 help you lose weight?.
YES: By suppressing feelings of hunger, melanotan can help you lose weight and excess body fat.
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Can I get skin cancer while taking Melanotan 2?.
YES, this is still not out of the question!
1) For some, a tan is so socially desirable that they will do anything to get it. Many expose themselves to strong sunlight until they burn, and some also use tanning beds. Be careful and remember: you can't rely solely on melanotan to protect your skin from high doses of UV or reduce your risk of skin cancer. Even if you have a tan, you can burn yourself and increase your risk of skin cancer.
2) Melanotan I and Melanotan II have both been tested in several clinical trials. They were generally found to be able to increase melanin levels, as is their job. One study even found that they can provide some protection against sunburn and the DNA damage that accompanies it. So the researchers working to develop melanotan may be on the right track, but we stress that these studies are still in the early stages. They still need to be confirmed in larger studies. This means that Melanotan 2 has not been studied enough today to make any firm answers or claims, so you better always remember that excessive and over-exposure to the sun can always increase the risk of skin cancer.
Does Melanotan 2 nasal spray work?.
Only partially, much less: melanotan 2, which is used in nasal sprays, is significantly less effective.
Does melanotan darken the hair?
It is very rare for the hair color on the head to change (as a result of taking Melanotan).
Does melanotan change eye color?.
NO: No change in eye color has been demonstrated in clinical studies.
Does melanotan increase blood pressure?.
YES: Adverse effects of melanotan may include high blood pressure.
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Melanotan 2 Dosage
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In the scientific studies and clinical trials conducted, the optimal dose of Melanotan 2 is often reported as 10 mcg per 1 kg of body weight daily.
Overview
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Melanotan 2 acts as an agonist at melanocortin receptors. Melanotan stimulates the production of melanin by melanocytes - a dark pigment primarily responsible for skin color that the body uses to protect the skin from UV radiation from sunlight and harmful influences; it also significantly increases libido and suppresses feelings of hunger. Melanotan 2 is being scientifically researched as a promising future protection of the skin against the harmful effects of sunlight and skin cancer, a remedy for erectile dysfunction or for the treatment of obesity.