Side-by-Side Comparison · 2026

Alpha-MSH vs Melanotan I

Alpha-MSH vs Melanotan I — mechanism, half-life, dosing, and research status compared. Which is right for your protocol?

Alpha-MSH
Melanocortin Peptide

Alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) is a 13-amino acid endogenous peptide cleaved from pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC). Unlike its synthetic analog Melanotan-2 which primarily activates MC1R and MC4R for pigmentation and sexual function, alpha-MSH is best recognized for ...

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Melanotan I
Melanocortin Peptide

Afamelanotide (Melanotan I, Scenesse) is an FDA-approved synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH). It was approved in 2019 for prevention of phototoxicity in adults with erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP)....

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Key Parameters
Parameter Alpha-MSH Melanotan I
Category Melanocortin Peptide Melanocortin Peptide
Research Clinical FDA Approved
Half-Life 10-20 min (plasma) 24-36 hours (implant)
Typical Dose 10-50 mcg (intranasal) 16 mg per implant
Frequency Variable Every 60 days
Route Intranasal, Subcutaneous, IV Subcutaneous implant (16 mg)
FDA Status Not approved Approved (EPP, 2019)

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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Alpha-MSH and Melanotan I?
Alpha-MSH: Alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) is a 13-amino acid endogenous peptide cleaved from pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC). Unlike its synthetic analog Melanotan-2 which primarily activates MC1R ... Melanotan I: Afamelanotide (Melanotan I, Scenesse) is an FDA-approved synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH). It was approved in 2019 for prevention of phototoxicity in adults with er...
Which has a longer half-life, Alpha-MSH or Melanotan I?
Alpha-MSH half-life: 10-20 min (plasma). Melanotan I half-life: 24-36 hours (implant).
Can you stack Alpha-MSH and Melanotan I?
Alpha-MSH and Melanotan I are in the same category and used together in research protocols. Always consult relevant literature and follow appropriate guidelines.

For research use only. Not medical advice. ASCEND does not conduct or endorse any specific research protocol. Always consult relevant scientific literature and regulatory guidelines.