An α-MSH analogue that stimulates melanin production without the libido effects of Melanotan II.
Selectively activates MC1R (melanocortin 1 receptor) on melanocytes to upregulate melanin synthesis — shifting production toward eumelanin (brown/black) for photoprotection. Unlike Melanotan II, it has minimal affinity for MC3R/MC4R, avoiding the central effects of appetite suppression and sexual arousal.
Afamelanotide (the brand-name form of Melanotan I) is clinically approved in Europe and the US for erythropoietic protoporphyria — a rare disorder causing extreme UV sensitivity. It is the first approved melanocortin receptor drug.
The selectivity for MC1R over MC4R means Melanotan I produces pigmentation without the sexual arousal or appetite suppression associated with Melanotan II, making its side-effect profile more targeted.