| Compound | MT-I (Afamelanotide) |
|---|---|
| Category | Melanocortin-1 receptor agonist |
| Class | Neuro, Nootropic, and Cosmetic Peptides |
| Evidence tier | Approved medicine |
| WADA status | Not individually listed; verify current status if subject to testing |
| Sold on this site | No — this is a reference database |
Overview
This entry covers MT-I (Afamelanotide), a melanocortin-1 receptor agonist, graded "Approved medicine" in this catalog's evidence system. This compound exists as an approved medicine in at least one major jurisdiction. Approval applies to specific, labeled indications and to the regulated product — not to compounded or research-grade copies.
An alpha-MSH analog approved as Scenesse for erythropoietic protoporphyria — a rare disorder of painful photosensitivity — implantable formulation, specialist-administered.
Mechanism of Action
Afamelanotide activates melanocortin-1 receptors on melanocytes, increasing eumelanin production and thereby photoprotection.
Research and Evidence
Registrational trials in EPP demonstrated increased pain-free sun-exposure time, supporting approval in the EU and US.
Safety and Side Effects
Administered as a controlled subcutaneous implant by specialist centers; effects include implant-site reactions and nausea. It is not the same substance as the unapproved "melanotan II" sold online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the evidence tier of MT-I (Afamelanotide)?
MT-I (Afamelanotide) is graded "Approved medicine" on this site. This compound exists as an approved medicine in at least one major jurisdiction. Approval applies to specific, labeled indications and to the regulated product — not to compounded or research-grade copies.
Is MT-I (Afamelanotide) an approved medicine?
MT-I (Afamelanotide) exists as an approved medicine in at least one major jurisdiction — but approval covers the regulated product and its labeled indications only. Compounded or research-grade versions of the same molecule are not the approved product.
Where can I read the primary studies for MT-I (Afamelanotide)?
The references section at the end of this entry links the key primary sources — regulator labels, trial registrations, and peer-reviewed papers. Our "How to Read a Peptide Study" guide explains how to evaluate them.
References
- ClinicalTrials.gov — registered afamelanotide studies. [source]
Evidence tier: Approved medicine · Last reviewed: 2026-09-05 · Sources cited below.