Melanotan 1 (Afamelanotide): The Approved α-MSH Analog — What the Science Says
Melanotan 1 (Afamelanotide) is the only α-MSH analog with regulatory approval in the EU. A scientific review of its mechanism and clinical data.
Peptolux Labs
What is Melanotan 1?
Melanotan 1, also known as Afamelanotide, is a linear synthetic analog of α-MSH (alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone). Unlike the cyclic Melanotan 2, MT-1 is more selective and is the only α-MSH analog to have received regulatory approval.
In the EU, Afamelanotide is approved by the EMA under the trade name Scenesse® for the treatment of erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) — a rare genetic disorder in which patients cannot tolerate sunlight.
MT-1 is more selective for the MC1R receptor compared to MT-2, meaning a cleaner pigmentation effect with fewer side effects mediated by other receptors.
How does it work?
MT-1 activates the MC1R receptor on melanocytes, stimulating the production of eumelanin. The dark pigment absorbs UV rays and provides natural photoprotection.
Unlike MT-2, MT-1 has minimal activity on the MC3R-MC5R receptors, which explains its cleaner action profile — primarily pigmentation without significant effects on appetite or other functions.
The approval of Scenesse® is based on Afamelanotide's ability to increase sunlight tolerance in EPP patients — a clinically significant effect confirmed in multiple randomized controlled trials.
What do the studies say?
A randomized controlled trial published in the New England Journal of Medicine (2015) demonstrated that Afamelanotide significantly increased the amount of time EPP patients could spend in direct sunlight without pain.
A study in the British Journal of Dermatology (2017) confirmed that MT-1 increases skin melanin content in a dose-dependent manner in healthy volunteers.
A Phase II clinical trial investigated the potential of Afamelanotide for photoprotection in individuals at high risk of UV damage, with promising preliminary results.
Key facts about Melanotan 1
1. Regulatory approval — The only α-MSH analog approved by the EMA (Scenesse®), confirming its safety and efficacy profile.
2. More selective than MT-2 — Predominantly activates MC1R, without significant effects on appetite, mood, or other MC receptor-mediated functions.
3. Clinically validated — Multiple randomized controlled trials in humans, published in top medical journals (NEJM, BJD).
4. Photoprotective — Increased eumelanin provides real UV protection, confirmed by objective measurements.
5. Milder side-effect profile — Thanks to its higher MC1R selectivity, MT-1 has fewer side effects compared to MT-2.
Quality and purity
Peptolux Melanotan 1: purity ≥98% HPLC, EU manufacturing (ISO + GMP), CoA. Format: pen. Storage: +2°C to +8°C.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The products mentioned are intended for scientific and research purposes. Consult a qualified specialist before any use. Individual results may vary.