Melanotan I (MT1)

Tanning Approved (EU) for EPP

Reviewed by The Peptide Dispatch Editorial Team · Last reviewed July 6, 2026

TL;DR — Melanotan I at a Glance

Melanotan I (MT1) is a tanning peptide, at the approved (eu) for epp stage in the published literature. Linear analog of alpha-MSH (afamelanotide) that promotes tanning. More selective for melanocortin-1 receptor than MT2.

Linear analog of alpha-MSH (afamelanotide) that promotes tanning. More selective for melanocortin-1 receptor than MT2.

Key Data

Research StatusApproved (EU) for EPP
Half-Life~1 hour
AdministrationSubcutaneous injection
Doses Reported in Published Studies1 mg

Mechanism of Action

Selective MC1R agonist that stimulates melanin production without significant effects on other melanocortin receptors.

Reported Benefits

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Melanotan I?

Linear analog of alpha-MSH (afamelanotide) that promotes tanning. More selective for melanocortin-1 receptor than MT2.

How does Melanotan I work?

Selective MC1R agonist that stimulates melanin production without significant effects on other melanocortin receptors.

What is the research status of Melanotan I?

Melanotan I is at the following stage in the published literature: Approved (EU) for EPP. All information is for research and educational purposes only.

What is the half-life of Melanotan I?

Reported half-life: ~1 hour.

How is Melanotan I administered in research?

Reported administration route in the literature: Subcutaneous injection. This is not a recommendation for human use.

Educational content, not medical advice. Effects described are drawn from cited research in study subjects.

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