Weight of C50H69N15O9 (Melanotan II) is 1024.1780 g/mol
Melanotan is a synthetic analog of the hormone alpha-melanocyte-stimulating peptideA peptide is a molecule consisting of a chain of amino acids linked together by peptide bonds. Peptides are shorter chains than proteins and usually contain from 2 to 50 amino acids. When the number of amino acids in a chain exceeds 50, such molecules are called proteins. Peptides can perform various functions in the body, including: Hormones, Neuropeptides, Antibiotics, Antioxidants (α-MSH), which plays a key role in skin pigmentation and also affects metabolism, appetite and sexual desire. Currently, there are two main versions of this drug – Melanotan I and Melanotan II, each of which has its own characteristics and effects.
Properties of Melanotan
Melanotan works by stimulating the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color and UV protection. The main properties of this substance include:
Enhanced tanning -promotes a more even and deep darkening of the skin without the need for prolonged exposure to the sun.
Reducing the risk of sunburn – by increasing the level of melanin, the skin becomes more resistant to the harmful effects of ultraviolet light.
Appetite control -Some users report a decrease in appetite when taking the drug, which may contribute to weight control.
Increased libido – especially characteristic of Melanotan II, which can increase sexual desire.
Protecting cells from oxidative stress -Melanin has antioxidant properties that can reduce damage to skin cells.
Possible side effects
Nausea and vomiting are the most common side effects, especially in the initial stages of ingestion.
High blood pressure – can occur in people who are prone to hypertension.
Darkening of moles and freckles is associated with increased levels of melanin in the skin.
Headaches and dizziness – occur in some users.
Fatigue and drowsiness are possible in the first days of use.
Erectile dysfunction or, conversely, priapism – in men, changes in sexual behavior are possible.
Contraindications to use
The drug is not recommended for use in the following cases::
Pregnancy and lactation.
Oncological diseases of the skin.
Cardiovascular diseases.
Hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.
Under 18 years of age.
Melanotan (both 1 and 2) suppresses appetite. This is one of its most pronounced and well-documented effects. However, this is achieved in different ways and with different concomitant effects.
1. How exactly melanotan affects appetite: mechanisms
The main tool for influencing appetite is the effect on the melanocortin system of the body, namely on the melanocortin receptors (MCRs). Different types of receptors are responsible for different functions.
a) Melanotan II (MT-2)
MT-2 is an agonist (activator) of the melanocortin MC3R and MC4R receptors. . It is the activation of MC4R in the hypothalamus (the center of the brain that regulates appetite and energy metabolism) that is key to suppressing appetite.
Mechanism: By activating MC4R, MT-2 mimics the natural hormone α-MSH, which sends the’I’m full’ signal to the brain. This results in:
Reduce the feeling of hunger.
Increase the feeling of satiety after eating even a small amount of food.
Acceleration of metabolism (insignificant).
Empirical reports: Consistently users report a sharp decline in interest in food, especially high-calorie and carbohydrate foods. ‘Food cravings’ (sudden strong desires to eat something) disappear. Many people say that they have to force themselves to eat on schedule, since there is no natural hunger.
b) Melanotan I (Afamelanotide / PT-141)
MT-1 is a more selective MC1R agonist (mainly responsible for pigmentation) and affects MC4R to a lesser extent. Its effect on appetite:
Weaker than MT-2: Since its primary target is not MC4R, the appetite-suppressing effect of MT-1 is much less pronounced or may be virtually absent in some people.
Indirect impact: Any melanotan can cause nausea (especially at the beginning of the course or with the wrong dosage), which, of course, leads to a decrease in appetite. But this is a side effect, not a purposeful action.
2. Tools of influence (at the level of the body)
If we talk not about molecular mechanisms, but about how exactly the user feels it, then the tools are as follows::
Neuroendocrine regulation: Direct action on receptors in the hypothalamus, overwriting hunger signals.
Change in eating behavior: Not only hunger disappears, but also the psychological desire to chew something(snacks, sweets). Food ceases to be a source of pleasure and becomes just a necessity.
Side effect-nausea: Especially with the first injections or a high dose. This is a powerful but unpleasant appetite suppressant tool.
3. WARNINGS AND RISKS
When discussing the effect on appetite, one can’t help but mention the risks.
Side effects:
Loss of muscle mass: Sudden and severe suppression of appetite leads to a large caloric deficit. If you do not consume enough protein and do not train with weights, the body will lose not only fat, but also muscle mass. Melanotan itself is not a ‘muscle-preserving’ agent.
Conclusion
Melanotan (especially the second version) is a very powerful appetite suppressantthat works through direct activation of MC4R receptors in the brain. However, its use for appetite control and weight loss is associated with serious health risks due to its numerous side effects and unregulated status.
This is not a ‘magic pill’ for weight loss, but a powerful and unpredictable peptide hormone with serious consequences. Any use of this product should be done deliberately and only after consulting a competent doctor who understands all the risks. There are safer and more legal methods of controlling your appetite.
