This page is reference information only. Most compounds described here are research chemicals, not FDA-approved medications. MyTRT does not sell, recommend, or endorse the use of these substances. Always consult a qualified physician.
Melanotan 1 (MT-1 / Afamelanotide)
Alpha-MSH Analog (MC1R-Selective)
/WHAT_IT_IS
Melanotan 1 (afamelanotide) is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte–stimulating hormone that preferentially activates MC1R to increase eumelanin production and photoprotection with minimal central melanocortin activity.
/USAGE
Studied for sunless tanning, reduction of UV-induced DNA damage, and photoprotection (e.g., erythropoietic protoporphyria models).
/MECHANISM_OF_ACTION
Agonizes melanocortin-1 receptors on melanocytes, upregulating cAMP/PKA signaling to enhance melanogenesis (eumelanin), increase melanosome transfer, and improve cutaneous photoprotection.
Reported Benefits
- +Increases skin pigmentation (eumelanin)
- +Enhances photoprotection and reduces UV sensitivity
- +May decrease UV-induced erythema/DNA damage
- +Lower incidence of nausea vs. MT-2 in many reports
Reported Side Effects
- −Flushing or facial warmth
- −Headache or mild nausea
- −Injection-site irritation
- −Freckle/mole darkening and hyperpigmentation
- −Rare: increased blood pressure or fatigue
/STACKED_WITH
/RESEARCH_NOTES
Compared with MT-2, MT-1 is more MC1R-selective with fewer centrally mediated effects (e.g., nausea/libido). Protocols often pair with strict UV-exposure controls and dermatologic monitoring of nevi.
/REFERENCE
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24628378//RELATED
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