Melanotan II

How it works

It copies the hormone that tells skin cells to make pigment. It also affects appetite and sexual arousal.

What people use it for

Tanning (not approved)

What the research shows

• Little controlled research in people.
• Case reports link it to changes in moles.

Side effects & risks

• Nausea and flushing
• Unwanted erections
• Moles getting darker or changing — get any changing mole checked
• Concern about skin cancer

Is it legal?

Not an approved medicine in the EU, UK or US. In most countries it is illegal to sell it for use in people. Products labelled "research use only" are not checked for quality or purity. Medicines regulators in several countries (including the UK, Australia and EU member states) have issued public warnings against its use.

Storage & safe handling

• Mix with bacteriostatic water: let it run slowly down the inside of the vial and swirl gently — never shake.
• Store the mixed vial in the fridge and follow the use-by period on the label.
• Wipe the vial top with alcohol and use a new sterile needle and syringe every time.
• Rotate injection sites so the same spot is not used again and again.
• Put used needles in a sharps container, not the household bin.
• Get medical help for redness that spreads, fever, swelling or trouble breathing.