Melanotan 1 vs Mazdutide
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & CosmeticSexual Health & Libido
Melanotan 1GLP-1 / Weight Loss Agonists
Mazdutide- 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.
- Mazdutide is a once-weekly GLP-1/glucagon dual receptor agonist developed by Innovent Biologics and Eli Lilly. Phase 2 trials in Chinese populations demonstrated up to 11.3% body weight reduction at 6 mg over 24 weeks. It also improves liver fat, glycemic control, and lipid profiles. Phase 3 trials are ongoing primarily in China.
- Half-Life
- ~40–60 minutes (free peptide); implant formulation (SCENESSE) releases over months
- ~7 days
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- SubQ
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 0.5–1 mg
- 1.5 mg → 3 mg → 4.5 mg → 6 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
- Up to 11.3% body weight reduction at 24 weeks (Phase 2, 6 mg dose)
- Significant reduction in liver fat content (NAFLD/MASH potential)
- Improves HbA1c and fasting glucose in type 2 diabetes
- Favorable lipid profile changes (reduced triglycerides)
- Once-weekly subcutaneous dosing
- Potential for superior weight loss vs GLP-1 monotherapy
- Side Effects
- Nausea (especially at higher doses)
- Facial flushing
- Fatigue
- Injection site reactions
- +3 more
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Decreased appetite
- Diarrhea
- +3 more
- Stacks With
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