HGH Fragment 176-191 vs Melanotan 1
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Fat Loss & Metabolic
HGH Fragment 176-191Skin & CosmeticSexual Health & Libido
Melanotan 1- Summary
- HGH Fragment 176-191 (also known as AOD-9604) is a stabilized, modified fragment of the human growth hormone molecule corresponding to amino acids 176–191 with an addition of a tyrosine residue at the N-terminus. It retains HGH's fat-burning properties without the anabolic, diabetogenic, or IGF-1-stimulating effects.
- 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
- ~30 minutes
- ~40–60 minutes (free peptide); implant formulation (SCENESSE) releases over months
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- SubQ
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 250–500 mcg
- 0.5–1 mg
- Frequency
- 1–3 times daily
- Daily until desired color achieved, then maintenance
- Key Benefits
- Selective fat burning without anabolic side effects
- Reduces visceral and subcutaneous fat
- No insulin resistance or blood glucose disruption
- Does not stimulate IGF-1
- May support cartilage and bone repair (at higher doses)
- No effect on growth or organ size
- 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 irritation
- Temporary lethargy
- Headache (rare)
- Nausea (rare)
- Nausea (especially at higher doses)
- Facial flushing
- Fatigue
- Injection site reactions
- +3 more
- Stacks With
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