Is Melanotan 2 the same as Melanotan II?

Yes — Melanotan 2 and Melanotan II are identical compounds; the numeral form '2' is just the Arabic equivalent of the Roman numeral 'II'. It is also abbreviated MT-2 or MT2 in research literature and bodybuilding communities. All four terms refer to the same synthetic melanocortin receptor agonist peptide.

What is the 'Barbie drug' or 'tanning peptide'?

The informal names 'Barbie drug' and 'tanning peptide' both refer to Melanotan II (MT-2). The 'Barbie drug' nickname gained media attention because of its dual tanning and libido-enhancing effects. The 'tanning peptide' label refers to its ability to stimulate melanogenesis (skin darkening) without UV exposure. Neither name is a different compound — both are Melanotan 2.

Is Melanotan 2 banned by WADA?

Yes. Melanotan II is prohibited under WADA's S0 (Non-Approved Substances) category because it has not received approval from any major regulatory authority (FDA, EMA, TGA) for human therapeutic use. Athletes in WADA-regulated sports face potential sanctions for use or possession.

What is the difference between Melanotan I and Melanotan II?

Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a linear peptide that selectively activates MC1R for tanning purposes and has received regulatory approval in some countries (e.g., EMA approval as Scenesse for erythropoietic protoporphyria). Melanotan II is a cyclic peptide that non-selectively activates MC1R through MC5R, producing both tanning and sexual arousal effects but lacking any regulatory approval. MT-II has a broader and less controlled receptor profile.

Content reviewed by clinical research staff

Last reviewed: March 2026Sources: PubMed, FDA, WADA Prohibited List

Evidence graded using the PeptideScholar A-D system.

Melanotan II

Melanocortin receptor agonist7 amino acids

CPreclinical

Good Credibility

2 cited studies | Evidence level C

Not FDA ApprovedWADA Banned

Melanotan II (also written as Melanotan 2, MT-2, or MT2) is a synthetic cyclic peptide analog of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH). Originally developed for skin tanning — sometimes informally called the 'tanning peptide' or 'Barbie drug' — it also has sexual arousal effects but significant safety concerns.

Mechanism of Action

Non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist (MC1R through MC5R). MC1R activation causes melanogenesis (tanning). MC4R activation causes sexual arousal. MC3R/4R activation suppresses appetite.

Benefits

Produces skin tanning without UV exposure in studies^[1]
Erectile response observed in male subjects^[1]
Appetite suppression^[1]
Precursor compound that led to bremelanotide development^[1]

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

Melanotan II - Dosing in Published Research

Reported routes: Subcutaneous injection

Research studies used 0.01-0.025 mg/kg SC. Self-administration is widespread but carries significant safety risks due to unregulated products.

The dosing information above is sourced from published research literature and clinical trials. These are not recommendations. Individual responses vary. Always consult a healthcare provider before considering any peptide-based therapy.

Side Effects

Nausea and flushing (very common)^[1]
Facial flushing^[1]
Uncontrolled erections^[1]
New or changing moles (melanocyte stimulation)^[1]
Increased melanoma risk is a theoretical concern^[2]
Dangerous with unregulated sources^[1]

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Melanotan II is not FDA-approved. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before considering any peptide.

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Research & Evidence

Case SeriesPMID: 41752902

Changes in Oral Mucosa Associated with Melanotan II Injections: A Case Report.

Life (Basel), 2026

Documented oral mucosal changes in a patient using Melanotan II, highlighting safety concerns with unregulated use

Case SeriesPMID: 40210573

Melanotan II nasal spray: a possible risk factor for oral mucosal malignant melanoma?

Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg, 2025

Case report of a 22-year-old female who developed oral mucosal malignant melanoma after using Melanotan II nasal spray for tanning purposes

Compare Melanotan II With

Melanotan II vs Bremelanotide

References

1.Changes in Oral Mucosa Associated with Melanotan II Injections: A Case Report.. Life (Basel), 2026. "Documented oral mucosal changes in a patient using Melanotan II, highlighting safety concerns with unregulated use" [PMID: 41752902]
2.Melanotan II nasal spray: a possible risk factor for oral mucosal malignant melanoma?. Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg, 2025. "Case report of a 22-year-old female who developed oral mucosal malignant melanoma after using Melanotan II nasal spray for tanning purposes" [PMID: 40210573]

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Melanotan II FAQ

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations.

Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or modifying any treatment. Do not disregard professional medical advice based on information found on this site.

No claims of therapeutic efficacy are made for substances that are not FDA-approved for the discussed indications. Research citations reflect published findings and do not imply endorsement.

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