Afamelanotide

An alpha-MSH analogue approved as Scenesse (a subcutaneous implant) to reduce phototoxicity in erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). It is the well-regulated cousin of the unapproved Melanotan II; approved use is narrow and clinician-administered.

A melanocortin-1 receptor agonist that increases eumelanin, providing photoprotection independent of sun exposure.

Strong within its approved EPP indication; there is no approval or robust evidence for cosmetic tanning, and it should not be equated with grey-market Melanotan products.

Administered as a controlled-release implant by a clinician within its approved indication. This app does not present a tanning-use schedule.

General information only, not tailored to you and not a recommendation. Some regions withhold this entirely.

• Nausea
• Headache
• Skin hyperpigmentation
• Implant-site reactions

• USFDA-approved (Scenesse) for EPP; prescription/clinic-administered only.
• GBLicensed for EPP under specialist care.
• AUTGA-registered for EPP; note Melanotan II is Schedule 9 and is a different substance.

Legal status changes over time; verify locally before relying on this.

Is afamelanotide the same as Melanotan I?

Afamelanotide is the approved medicine (Scenesse) based on the melanotan-I structure. It is regulated and clinic-administered, unlike grey-market 'Melanotan' products.

What is afamelanotide approved for?

To reduce phototoxic reactions in adults with erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). It is not approved for cosmetic tanning.

• Afamelanotide EPP trialsPivotalPubMed
• FDA prescribing information (Scenesse)FDA label

• GHK-Cu
• Melanotan II
• PT-141 (Bremelanotide)
• Argireline

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