New — Free Peptide Starter Guide (2026): 13 chapters, 34 cited studies

Get it free
Tools›Compare›BPC-157 vs Melanotan 1

BPC-157 vs Melanotan 1

Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.

Recovery & Repair
BPC-157
Skin & CosmeticSexual Health & Libido
Melanotan 1
Summary
BPC-157 is a synthetic pentadecapeptide derived from a protective protein found in the stomach. It is one of the most extensively researched healing peptides, known for accelerating tissue repair, reducing inflammation, and protecting the gastrointestinal tract.
Melanotan 1 (Afamelanotide) is a synthetic analog of α-MSH that selectively stimulates melanogenesis (tanning) through MC1R activation. It provides UV-independent skin pigmentation and is FDA/EMA-approved under the name SCENESSE for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) and vitiligo.
Half-Life
4–6 hours
~40–60 minutes (free peptide); implant formulation (SCENESSE) releases over months
Admin Route
SubQ, IM, Oral
SubQ
Research
—
—
Typical Dose
200–500 mcg
0.5–1 mg
Frequency
Once daily
Daily until desired color achieved, then maintenance
Key Benefits
  • Accelerates wound healing and tissue repair
  • Reduces inflammation throughout the body
  • Protects and heals the gastrointestinal tract
  • Supports tendon and ligament healing
  • Promotes bone and joint health
  • May protect organs from toxins and injury
  • Supports gut-brain axis function
  • Counteracts NSAID-induced gut damage
  • Induces skin pigmentation/tanning without UV exposure
  • Provides photoprotection in photosensitivity conditions (EPP)
  • FDA-approved for erythropoietic protoporphyria (SCENESSE)
  • Approved in EU for EPP treatment
  • Anti-inflammatory via MC1R
  • Mild libido enhancement
  • Potential skin cancer prevention through melanin protection
Side Effects
  • Injection site discomfort
  • Nausea (rare)
  • Headache (rare)
  • Dizziness (rare)
  • Nausea (especially at higher doses)
  • Facial flushing
  • Fatigue
  • Injection site reactions
  • +3 more
Stacks With
—
—