Melanotan II (MT-II) is a synthetic peptide analog of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH), a naturally occurring hormone that stimulates the production of melanin. Melanin is the pigment that gives skin, hair, and eyes their color.
MT-II is not approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for any medical use, but it is illegally sold online and in some supplement stores as a tanning drug and as a treatment for erectile dysfunction.
MT-II has a number of known side effects, including:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Flushing
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Decreased sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction (in men)
- Vaginal dryness (in women)
- Increased risk of skin cancer
Some of these side effects are mild and temporary, while others can be more serious and long-lasting. For example, the increased risk of skin cancer is a serious side effect that should not be taken lightly.
In addition to the known side effects listed above, there are also a number of potential side effects that have not been fully studied. For example, MT-II may interact with other medications or supplements, and it may have adverse effects on pregnant women or women who are breastfeeding.
How to minimize the risk of side effects
If you are considering using MT-II, there are a few things you can do to minimize the risk of side effects:
- Start with a low dose and increase gradually as tolerated.
- Be aware of the potential side effects and monitor yourself closely for any signs or symptoms.
- If you experience any side effects, stop taking MT-II immediately and talk to your doctor.
When to see a doctor
You should see a doctor immediately if you experience any of the following side effects while taking MT-II:
- Chest pain or shortness of breath
- Severe headache
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Vision changes
- Severe nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Skin rash
- Allergic reaction
MT-II is a synthetic peptide with a number of known side effects, including nausea and vomiting, flushing, headache, dizziness, increased heart rate and blood pressure, decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction, vaginal dryness, and an increased risk of skin cancer.
If you are considering using MT-II, it is important to weigh the risks and benefits carefully. There are safer and more effective alternatives for tanning and treating erectile dysfunction.
If you do choose to use MT-II, start with a low dose and increase gradually as tolerated. Be aware of the potential side effects and monitor yourself closely for any signs or symptoms. If you experience any side effects, stop taking MT-II immediately and talk to your doctor.
