Melanotan 2
Melanotan II (MT-2)
The tanning peptide with unexpected effects on libido and appetite
Melanotan 2 is a synthetic analogue of alpha-MSH that stimulates melanogenesis (tanning), increases libido, and reduces appetite. It is one of the most widely used peptides in Australia despite lacking regulatory approval.
Admin routes
Subcutaneous
Popularity
High
Side effects
Monitor closely
AU vendors
4 rated
โKey benefits
๐What to expect
Nausea and facial flushing common initially
Gradual skin darkening begins; libido increase
Noticeable tan develops with minimal sun exposure
Maintenance dose sustains colour; reduce frequency
Based on community reports and published research. Individual results vary significantly.
๐Dosing protocols
Tanning (loading)
250โ500 mcg
Daily (subcutaneous)
Loading: 2โ3 weeks
Tanning (maintenance)
250โ500 mcg
1โ2 times per week
As needed before UV exposure
Dosing information is sourced from published research and community protocols. This is not a recommendation. Consult a healthcare professional.
Research status|Phase 2 data available - not approved in any country
Overview
Melanotan 2 (MT-2) is a synthetic cyclic peptide analogue of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (ฮฑ-MSH), originally developed at the University of Arizona in the 1990s for skin cancer prevention through UV-free tanning. It activates melanocortin receptors (MC1R through MC5R), producing broad effects: melanogenesis (skin darkening), increased libido (via MC4R in the brain), appetite suppression, and modulation of inflammatory pathways. MT-2 is enormously popular in Australia and the UK, despite not having regulatory approval in any country. Its nickname in the Australian community is 'Barbie drug' for the tan it produces.
โ๏ธHow it works
MT-2 binds to melanocortin receptors, particularly MC1R (melanogenesis), MC3R and MC4R (appetite and sexual function). MC1R activation triggers melanocytes to produce more melanin, darkening the skin with or without UV exposure (though UV exposure significantly enhances the effect). MC4R activation in the hypothalamus produces libido-enhancing effects and appetite suppression. The broad receptor binding is what gives MT-2 its multiple effects - but also its side effects, as melanocortin receptors are involved in numerous physiological processes.
โกSide effects
๐ Research history
Developed at University of Arizona as a sunless tanning agent
Underground adoption for tanning; termed 'Barbie drug' in media
Sexual arousal effects lead to PT-141 (bremelanotide) development
TGA and FDA issue warnings about unregulated MT-2 products
Remains widely used despite regulatory warnings
๐ชRated vendors (Australia)
View all โPeptides Collective
Perth, WA ยท 99%+ (third-party verified) purity ยท 1โ2 days (Perth), 2โ4 days (national)
peptidescollective.health โLotusLabs
Australia ยท 99%+ (HPLC and mass spectrometry) purity ยท Same-day dispatch, 2โ3 days delivery
lotuslabs.com.au โPeptideConnect
Australia ยท 99%+ (Janoshik verified) purity ยท 1โ2 days (most capitals)
peptideconnect.com.au โThe Peptide Co
Australia (multiple depots) ยท 99%+ (in-house QC) purity ยท Same-day dispatch, 1โ3 days delivery
thepeptideco.com โVendor ratings are based on community feedback and are not endorsements. Always verify third-party certificates of analysis (CoA) and check current Australian regulations before purchasing.
The mole concern
The most significant safety concern with MT-2 is its effect on moles and nevi. By stimulating melanogenesis globally, MT-2 can darken existing moles and potentially stimulate new mole growth. While there is no direct evidence that MT-2 causes melanoma, it could theoretically promote the growth of pre-existing melanocytic lesions. Australian dermatologists recommend: (1) getting a full mole check before starting, (2) monitoring all moles during use with monthly photos, (3) immediately stopping if any mole changes shape, colour, or border. Given Australia's high melanoma rate, this concern is particularly relevant for Australian users.
References
- [1]Dorr RT, et al. "Effects of a superpotent melanotropic peptide in combination with solar UV radiation on tanning of the skin in human volunteers." Archives of Dermatology, 2004.
- [2]Hadley ME, Dorr RT. "Melanocortin peptide therapeutics: historical milestones, clinical studies and commercialization." Peptides, 2006.
Frequently asked questions
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Open CalculatorDisclaimer: This guide is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. The dosing protocols listed are sourced from published research and community reports and do not constitute a recommendation. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any peptide. Australian regulations classify many peptides as Schedule 4 (prescription-only) substances. Check current TGA guidelines before purchasing.