Melanotan 1 vs Dermorphin
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & CosmeticSexual Health & Libido
Melanotan 1Recovery & Repair
Dermorphin- 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.
- Dermorphin is a naturally occurring heptapeptide opioid isolated from the skin of South American phyllomedusine frogs. It is one of the most potent endogenous mu-opioid receptor agonists known, approximately 30-40 times more potent than morphine by weight. Explored for pain management and fatigue modulation.
- Half-Life
- ~40–60 minutes (free peptide); implant formulation (SCENESSE) releases over months
- Estimated 30-60 minutes (longer than endorphins due to D-Ala)
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- Subcutaneous (research), Intrathecal (research), Intranasal (research)
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 0.5–1 mg
- Not established for human use; research doses vary widely
- Frequency
- Daily until desired color achieved, then maintenance
- Not established
- 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
- Potent analgesia superior to morphine on a per-weight basis
- May reduce perception of fatigue in high-intensity activity
- Longer-lasting than endogenous opioids due to D-amino acid substitution
- Research tool for mu-opioid receptor pharmacology
- Potential therapeutic application in refractory pain
- Side Effects
- Nausea (especially at higher doses)
- Facial flushing
- Fatigue
- Injection site reactions
- +3 more
- High addiction and dependence potential (mu-opioid agonism)
- Respiratory depression at high doses
- Nausea, vomiting, constipation
- Sedation and cognitive impairment
- +2 more
- Stacks With
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