Exenatide vs Melanotan 1
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
GLP-1 / Weight Loss AgonistsCognitive Enhancement
ExenatideSkin & CosmeticSexual Health & Libido
Melanotan 1- Summary
- Exenatide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist derived from the Gila monster lizard peptide exendin-4, with 53% homology to human GLP-1 and natural resistance to DPP-4 degradation. Available as twice-daily (Byetta) or once-weekly (Bydureon) formulation, it is also being studied for Parkinson's disease neuroprotection.
- 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
- ~2.4 hours (Byetta/twice-daily); Bydureon BCISE: weekly via microsphere release
- ~40–60 minutes (free peptide); implant formulation (SCENESSE) releases over months
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- SubQ
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 5 mcg, titrate to 10 mcg
- 0.5–1 mg
- Frequency
- Twice daily
- Daily until desired color achieved, then maintenance
- Key Benefits
- Blood glucose control in type 2 diabetes
- Weight loss (average 2–3 kg in clinical trials)
- Once-weekly extended-release formulation available
- Reduces appetite and food intake
- Possible neuroprotective in Parkinson's disease (Phase II trials)
- Reduces systemic inflammation
- May protect pancreatic beta cells
- Cardiovascular neutral or potentially protective
- 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
- Nausea (most common, especially initially)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- +4 more
- Nausea (especially at higher doses)
- Facial flushing
- Fatigue
- Injection site reactions
- +3 more
- Stacks With
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