Melanotan 1 vs 5-Amino-1MQ
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & CosmeticSexual Health & Libido
Melanotan 1Fat Loss & Metabolic
5-Amino-1MQ- Summary
- 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.
- 5-Amino-1MQ is a small-molecule NNMT (Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase) inhibitor that raises intracellular NAD+ levels and promotes fat burning. It is notable for targeting adipose tissue directly, reducing fat cell size and number while increasing metabolic rate.
- Half-Life
- ~40–60 minutes (free peptide); implant formulation (SCENESSE) releases over months
- Estimated 4–8 hours
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- Oral
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 0.5–1 mg
- 50–100 mg
- Frequency
- Daily until desired color achieved, then maintenance
- Once to twice daily
- Key Benefits
- 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
- Raises intracellular NAD+ levels
- Directly targets adipose tissue for fat reduction
- Reduces fat cell size and differentiation
- Increases basal metabolic rate
- SIRT1 activation for metabolic regulation
- No stimulant cardiovascular side effects
- Synergistic with intermittent fasting and caloric restriction
- May have anti-aging metabolic benefits
- Side Effects
- Nausea (especially at higher doses)
- Facial flushing
- Fatigue
- Injection site reactions
- +3 more
- Generally well-tolerated in available studies
- Mild GI discomfort (rare)
- Limited long-term human data
- Stacks With
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