Melanotan 1 vs Cagrilintide
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & CosmeticSexual Health & Libido
Melanotan 1GLP-1 / Weight Loss Agonists
Cagrilintide- 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.
- Cagrilintide is a long-acting amylin analog developed by Novo Nordisk. Amylin is a peptide hormone co-secreted with insulin from pancreatic beta cells. Cagrilintide slows gastric emptying, suppresses glucagon, and reduces appetite via central amylin receptors. In combination with semaglutide (CagriSema), Phase 2 trials achieved approximately 15% body weight reduction. Phase 3 trials (REDEFINE program) are ongoing.
- Half-Life
- ~40–60 minutes (free peptide); implant formulation (SCENESSE) releases over months
- ~7–10 days
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- SubQ
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 0.5–1 mg
- 0.16 mg → 0.3 mg → 0.6 mg → 1.2 mg → 2.4 mg
- Frequency
- Daily until desired color achieved, then maintenance
- Once weekly
- 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
- ~15% body weight reduction in combination with semaglutide (CagriSema Phase 2)
- Synergistic appetite suppression complementing GLP-1 receptor agonists
- Reduces post-meal glucagon excursions improving glycemic control
- Slows gastric emptying contributing to prolonged satiety
- Once-weekly dosing via subcutaneous injection
- Potential for greater weight loss than semaglutide monotherapy
- Side Effects
- Nausea (especially at higher doses)
- Facial flushing
- Fatigue
- Injection site reactions
- +3 more
- Nausea (most common, especially during titration)
- Vomiting
- Decreased appetite
- Diarrhea
- +2 more
- Stacks With
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