Melanotan II is a synthetic version of peptide hormone alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (a-MSH). Melanotan II was formed, synthesized and fabricated at the University of Arizona and the Arizona Cancer Center. Melanotan II has the added effect of raising libido. Melanotan II has aphrodisiac properties.

With aphrodisiac properties, Melanotan II is a cyclic lactam analog of alpha-MSH with the amino acid succession Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH2. Melanotan II has sunless tanning capabilities but since it has libido enhancement and spontaneous erections as fallouts, it is now being built up as a sexual and erectile dysfunction medication.

The possible Melanotan II effects are divided into three different categories that include positive, neutral and negative effects. Some users of Melanotan II experience all of the following effects, while others experience only the tanning with little or no unfavorable response.

The positive outcomes of Melanotan II include increased ability to tan for all skin types and ages and drastically decreased sun burn. The effects that have neutral effect are increased libido, strong erections in males (generally occurs 1-3 hours after dosage and last for 2-4 hours) and decreased appetite (could account for loss of weight in trial subjects). The negative effect of Melanotan II includes facial flushing shortly after injection (usually subsides after the first few shots), mild nausea (frequently subsides after the first few shots) and hyperpigmentation (usually fades upon cessation of use).

It is suggested to take Melanotan II at night just before bed in order to prevent possible uninvited fallouts like erections, nausea and flushing. Those willing to inhibit their appetite all through the day may need to have their dose in the morning. 10mg of Melanotan II is available in sealed 3ml vial. Its molecular formula is C50 H69 N15 O9, and it stored at 2-8C.

Presently, Melanotan II is being examined and originated under the name CUV1647 by the Australian company Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals. Melanotan II functions by inspiring the body's naturally occurring alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (a-MSH), cause Melanogenesis, a action where melanocytes fabricate melanin. Administering Melanotan II directly to the body is an effectual and secure option to tanning by UV exposure in absence of any toxic effects.