Melanotan II Dosage Guide: How Much Should You Take? (2026)

Key Takeaways

• Standard dosage range for Melanotan II is typically between 0.5 mg to 1 mg per administration.
• Administration is most commonly via subcutaneous injection due to its higher bioavailability.
• Typical cycle length ranges from 2 to 4 weeks, with maintenance doses thereafter.
• Melanotan II is not FDA-approved and is primarily used in research settings.
• Medical supervision is crucial to monitor for potential side effects and ensure safe use.

How Melanotan II Works in the Body

Melanotan II is a synthetic peptide that mimics the effects of the naturally occurring hormone alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It primarily targets melanocortin receptors, particularly the MC1R, which plays a crucial role in skin pigmentation. By binding to these receptors, Melanotan II stimulates the production of melanin, leading to a darkening of the skin.

The peptide's mechanism of action extends to influencing other melanocortin receptors, such as MC3R and MC4R, which are involved in sexual arousal and appetite regulation. The half-life of Melanotan II is approximately 33 minutes, and it is primarily administered via subcutaneous injection due to its higher bioavailability compared to other routes (PMID 8637402).

Bioavailability and receptor affinity are critical considerations in dosing decisions. A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Chemistry highlights the importance of receptor binding affinity in developing selective melanocortin receptor agonists (PMID 35188390).

"The pleiotropic role played by melanocortin receptors in both physiological and pathological processes has stimulated medicinal chemists to develop synthetic agonists/antagonists with improved potency and selectivity." (PMID 35188390)

Standard Melanotan II Dosage Ranges (By Form)

Subcutaneous Injection

• Dosage Range: 0.5 mg to 1 mg per injection
• Frequency: Daily or every other day
• Bioavailability: High due to direct absorption into the bloodstream
• Commonality: Most common form due to ease of administration and effective absorption

Intranasal (Experimental)

• Dosage Range: Not well-established, typically lower than injectable forms
• Frequency: Multiple times daily due to lower bioavailability
• Bioavailability: Lower than subcutaneous; limited data available

Subcutaneous injection remains the preferred method due to its superior bioavailability and ease of achieving desired serum levels. Other forms, such as intranasal, are less common and primarily experimental, with limited data on effectiveness and safety.

Melanotan II Dosage by Use Case

Tanning

• Typical Dosage Range: 0.5 mg to 1 mg per day
• Administration Method: Subcutaneous injection
• Cycle Length: 2 to 4 weeks, followed by maintenance doses
• Clinical Reference: Phase I study evaluating skin darkening effects (PMID 8637402)
• Guidance: Many clinics recommend starting with a lower dose to assess tolerance before increasing.

Sexual Dysfunction

• Typical Dosage Range: 0.5 mg per day
• Administration Method: Subcutaneous injection
• Cycle Length: As needed, based on response
• Clinical Reference: Studies on MC4R agonists suggest potential benefits (PMID 37478579)
• Guidance: Clinical protocols typically involve titration to the effective dose.

Appetite Suppression (Experimental)

• Typical Dosage Range: 0.5 mg to 1 mg per day
• Administration Method: Subcutaneous injection
• Cycle Length: Experimental; not well-defined
• Clinical Reference: Animal studies indicate potential effects on appetite (PMID 37478579)
• Guidance: Use in this context is experimental and should be under strict medical supervision.

How Long Should You Take Melanotan II?

The typical cycle length for Melanotan II ranges from 2 to 4 weeks, with maintenance doses thereafter to sustain the desired effects, particularly for tanning. During the initial phase, users often report noticeable changes within the first week, with more pronounced results by weeks 2 to 4. Tapering off is generally not required, but maintenance doses can help prolong effects.

Clinical trials have not established a definitive duration for treatment, and long-term data are lacking. Users should consult with healthcare providers to determine the appropriate cycle length based on individual goals and response.

Administration Protocol: How to Take Melanotan II

Injection Technique

• Needle Gauge: 29-31 gauge insulin syringe
• Injection Sites: Abdomen, thigh, or upper arm
• Rotation Schedule: Rotate sites to minimize irritation

Storage Requirements

• Temperature: Store reconstituted solution in the refrigerator
• Light Sensitivity: Protect from light to preserve potency
• Reconstituted Stability: Use within 30 days

Reconstitution Instructions

• Diluent: Use sterile water for injection
• Mix Ratio: Follow specific reconstitution guide here

Step-by-Step Administration

1. Wash hands thoroughly.
2. Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab.
3. Draw the appropriate dose into the syringe.
4. Pinch the skin at the injection site.
5. Insert the needle at a 45-degree angle.
6. Inject the solution slowly.
7. Withdraw the needle and apply pressure to the site.

Stacking Melanotan II for Better Results

Melanotan II and PT-141

• Combination: Known for enhancing sexual response
• Dosing Synergy: Melanotan II at 0.5 mg with PT-141 at 1 mg
• Protocol: Used in sexual wellness protocols
• Link: PT-141

Melanotan II and GHRP-6

• Combination: Used for synergistic effects on appetite and metabolism
• Dosing Synergy: Melanotan II at 0.5 mg with GHRP-6 at 100 mcg
• Protocol: Common in body composition programs
• Link: GHRP-6

Factors That Affect Your Melanotan II Dosage

Dosage adjustments are often necessary based on individual factors such as body weight, age, treatment goals, and overall health. Providers may adjust doses for those with kidney or liver impairments or those taking other medications that could interact with Melanotan II. Personalized dosing ensures efficacy and minimizes risk.

Common Dosing Mistakes to Avoid

1. Dosing Too High/Too Low: Can lead to side effects or suboptimal results.
2. Inconsistent Timing: Reduces effectiveness; maintain a regular schedule.
3. Wrong Injection Site: Can affect absorption and increase irritation.
4. Not Accounting for Regulatory Status: Use only under research or clinical supervision.
5. Poor Storage/Handling: Compromises peptide stability and efficacy.

What the Evidence Does Not Show

While Melanotan II shows promise in various areas, there are significant gaps in long-term safety data and human clinical trials. Most studies are preliminary or conducted in animals, with limited dose-response data available. Users should be aware of these limitations when considering treatment.

FAQ — Your Top Melanotan II Dosage Questions Answered

Best time of day to take it?

Melanotan II is typically taken in the evening to minimize potential side effects like nausea.

What if you miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's close to your next scheduled dose.

Can men and women use the same dose?

Yes, but individual responses may vary. Dosing should be personalized.

Can you stack it with other peptides?

Yes, Melanotan II can be stacked with peptides like PT-141 for enhanced effects.

How long until you see results?

Many users report initial tanning results within the first week.

Do you need to cycle off?

Cycling off is not necessary, but maintenance doses can prolong effects.

Is a loading dose needed?

A loading dose may be used initially to achieve quicker results.

How to adjust dose if side effects occur?

Reduce the dose and consult with a healthcare provider if side effects persist.

Conclusion — Finding the Right Dosage for You

Determining the optimal Melanotan II dosage requires consideration of individual goals, health status, and response. Medical supervision is essential to ensure safe and effective use. For more information on peptide therapy, visit our Melanotan II encyclopedia page and use our clinic finder to locate a qualified provider near you.

Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Dosage information is compiled from published research and clinical protocols. Consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting any peptide therapy. Use our clinic finder to locate a qualified provider near you.