Glutathione vs Melanotan 1
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Anti-Aging & LongevityImmune Support
GlutathioneSkin & CosmeticSexual Health & Libido
Melanotan 1- Summary
- Glutathione is the body's master endogenous antioxidant tripeptide, composed of glutamate, cysteine, and glycine. It neutralizes reactive oxygen species, supports detoxification in the liver, recycles other antioxidants (vitamins C and E), and plays a central role in immune function, DNA repair, and cellular redox balance.
- 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
- Minutes to hours depending on route; IV half-life approximately 10-30 minutes
- ~40–60 minutes (free peptide); implant formulation (SCENESSE) releases over months
- Admin Route
- Oral (liposomal preferred), Sublingual, Intravenous, Nebulized/inhaled, Topical
- SubQ
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 250-1000 mg per day
- 0.5–1 mg
- Frequency
- Once or twice daily
- Daily until desired color achieved, then maintenance
- Key Benefits
- Primary endogenous antioxidant and free radical scavenger
- Supports hepatic detoxification of xenobiotics and heavy metals
- Recycles vitamins C and E to maintain antioxidant network
- Modulates immune function and T-cell activity
- Skin brightening via inhibition of tyrosinase (IV/topical routes)
- Neuroprotective in oxidative stress-related conditions
- Mitochondrial protection and energy metabolism support
- 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
- Oral bioavailability is limited (largely hydrolyzed in gut); liposomal or sublingual forms preferred
- IV administration: rare allergic reactions, vein irritation
- High-dose supplementation may cause zinc depletion over time
- Inhaled glutathione may trigger bronchoconstriction in asthmatics
- Nausea (especially at higher doses)
- Facial flushing
- Fatigue
- Injection site reactions
- +3 more
- Stacks With
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