Melanotan 1 vs Adamax
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & CosmeticSexual Health & Libido
Melanotan 1Cognitive Enhancement
Adamax- 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.
- Adamax is a synthetic neuropeptide related to brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling pathways. It is explored for cognitive enhancement, neuroprotection, and mood support, with proposed mechanisms involving TrkB receptor activation and enhancement of neuroplasticity similar to endogenous BDNF.
- Half-Life
- ~40–60 minutes (free peptide); implant formulation (SCENESSE) releases over months
- Estimated 1-3 hours (short; peptide degradation)
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- Subcutaneous, Intranasal (research)
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 0.5–1 mg
- 200-400 mcg per dose
- Frequency
- Daily until desired color achieved, then maintenance
- Once daily or every other day
- 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
- Proposed enhancement of learning and memory consolidation
- Neuroprotective via BDNF-TrkB pathway support
- May improve mood and resilience to stress
- Potential support for neurogenesis
- Cognitive clarity and focus enhancement (reported anecdotally)
- Explored for neurodegeneration and age-related cognitive decline
- Side Effects
- Nausea (especially at higher doses)
- Facial flushing
- Fatigue
- Injection site reactions
- +3 more
- Limited human safety data; largely anecdotal reports
- Possible headache or mild overstimulation
- Sleep disruption with late-day dosing
- Unknown long-term safety profile
- Stacks With
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