Research & Educational Use Only. This protocol guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before beginning any research protocol.
Tanning / Photoprotection Peptide
Weekly Protocol Guide
Melanotan II Protocol Guide
Melanotan II is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (a-MSH) that stimulates melanogenesis, the process by which melanin pigment is produced in skin cells. It is studied for UV-free tanning and photoprotective research applications.
Protocol Overview
- Compound
- Melanotan II (Alpha-Melanocyte Stimulating Hormone Analog)
- Category
- Tanning / Photoprotection Peptide
- Vial Size
- 10mg (10,000mcg)
- Reconstitution
- 2mL bacteriostatic water (5mg/mL)
- Route
- Subcutaneous injection
- Frequency
- 3 days/week
Reconstitution Instructions
Using 2mL of bacteriostatic water results in a concentration of 5mg/mL. Start with low doses to assess tolerance. Always use sterile techniques.
Materials Needed
- 10mg Melanotan II 10mg vial (lyophilized powder)
- 2mL bacteriostatic water (sterile, preserved with 0.9% benzyl alcohol)
- Sterile syringe and needle (18-22 gauge for drawing)
- Alcohol swabs
- Clean workspace
Step-by-Step Process
- Preparation: Allow the Melanotan II 10mg vial and bacteriostatic water to reach room temperature. Wipe the rubber stoppers of both vials with an alcohol swab.
- Draw the Water: Using a sterile syringe, draw up exactly 2mL of bacteriostatic water. Expel any air bubbles.
- Inject into Vial: Insert the needle through the rubber stopper at a slight angle, aiming toward the glass wall. Slowly inject the water down the side of the vial to avoid foaming.
- Mix Gently: Remove the needle. Gently swirl or roll the vial between your hands. Do not shake vigorously.
- Check for Clarity: The solution should be clear once fully reconstituted. Do not use if cloudy.
Weekly Dosing Schedule
| Day | Units | Dose | Timing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | 5 | 250mcg | Evening |
| Wednesday | 5 | 250mcg | Evening |
| Friday | 5 | 250mcg | Evening |
Weekly Total: 15 units (750mcg) • Vial Duration: ~93 days (~13.3 weeks)
Loading Phase
Begin with a loading phase of 250-500mcg administered daily for 7-14 days to build initial pigmentation. After the loading phase, transition to maintenance dosing of 250mcg 1-2 times per week to sustain results. The schedule above reflects standard maintenance dosing.
Quick Dosing Reference
| Units (Ticks) | Dose (mcg) | Dose (mg) |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 100 | 0.1mg |
| 5 | 250 | 0.25mg |
| 10 | 500 | 0.5mg |
| 20 | 1000 | 1mg |
| 50 | 2500 | 2.5mg |
Administration Guidelines
- Administer subcutaneously in the evening, preferably before bed
- Start with 250mcg to assess tolerance before increasing
- Rotate injection sites between abdomen, thigh, and upper arm
- Store reconstituted peptide refrigerated at 36-46F (2-8C)
- Use reconstituted solution within 30 days
- Never freeze reconstituted peptides
- Document administration times and observations
Storage Requirements
| State | Storage Conditions |
|---|---|
| Lyophilized (powder) | Room temperature or refrigerated, protect from light |
| Reconstituted | Refrigerated 36-46F (2-8C), use within 30 days |