Melanotan 1 vs GHRP-6
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & CosmeticSexual Health & Libido
Melanotan 1Growth Hormone Peptides
GHRP-6- 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.
- GHRP-6 is the original synthetic GH-releasing peptide and a potent ghrelin receptor agonist. It produces strong GH pulses but is notorious for a significant hunger surge 30–45 minutes post-injection. This hunger side effect makes it less preferred than Ipamorelin or GHRP-2 for most protocols but can be useful in patients with appetite deficiency.
- Half-Life
- ~40–60 minutes (free peptide); implant formulation (SCENESSE) releases over months
- 15–60 minutes
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- SubQ, Intranasal
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 0.5–1 mg
- 100–300 mcg
- Frequency
- Daily until desired color achieved, then maintenance
- 2–3 times 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
- Strong GH stimulation
- Elevated IGF-1
- Muscle growth and recovery support
- Potential anti-inflammatory effects at GI level
- Useful for patients with appetite deficiency or cachexia
- Enhanced recovery from training
- Side Effects
- Nausea (especially at higher doses)
- Facial flushing
- Fatigue
- Injection site reactions
- +3 more
- Intense hunger surge (30–45 min post-injection)
- Water retention
- Elevated cortisol (modest)
- Elevated prolactin (modest)
- +2 more
- Stacks With
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