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

Get it free
ToolsCompareGHRP-6 vs Melanotan II

GHRP-6 vs Melanotan II

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

Growth Hormone Peptides
GHRP-6
Sexual Health & Libido
Melanotan II
Summary
GHRP-6 is the original synthetic GH-releasing peptide and a potent ghrelin receptor agonist. It produces strong GH pulses but is notorious for a significant hunger surge 30–45 minutes post-injection. This hunger side effect makes it less preferred than Ipamorelin or GHRP-2 for most protocols but can be useful in patients with appetite deficiency.
Melanotan II is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) that stimulates melanin production (skin tanning), suppresses appetite, and enhances sexual function. It is not FDA-approved and has significant safety concerns including mole changes and cardiovascular effects.
Half-Life
15–60 minutes
1–2 hours
Admin Route
SubQ, Intranasal
SubQ
Research
Typical Dose
100–300 mcg
0.25–0.5 mg
Frequency
2–3 times daily
Once daily
Key Benefits
  • Strong GH stimulation
  • Elevated IGF-1
  • Muscle growth and recovery support
  • Potential anti-inflammatory effects at GI level
  • Useful for patients with appetite deficiency or cachexia
  • Enhanced recovery from training
  • Promotes skin tanning and melanin production
  • Reduces UV exposure needed to tan
  • Enhances libido and sexual function
  • May suppress appetite
  • Faster, deeper tan development
  • Longer-lasting tan maintenance
  • Potential photoprotective effects
Side Effects
  • Intense hunger surge (30–45 min post-injection)
  • Water retention
  • Elevated cortisol (modest)
  • Elevated prolactin (modest)
  • +2 more
  • Nausea (very common, especially in first days)
  • Facial flushing
  • Spontaneous erections in men
  • Darkening or changes in existing moles (monitor closely)
  • +3 more
Stacks With