Melanotan 1 vs PE-22-28
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & CosmeticSexual Health & Libido
Melanotan 1Cognitive Enhancement
PE-22-28- 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.
- PE-22-28 is a synthetic analog of spadin derived from sortilin, designed to block TREK-1 potassium channels with rapid-onset antidepressant and neurogenic effects. It shows fast-acting depression relief (within 24 hours) and promotes hippocampal neurogenesis.
- Half-Life
- ~40–60 minutes (free peptide); implant formulation (SCENESSE) releases over months
- Relatively short; CNS effects may persist due to neurogenic mechanisms
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- SubQ, Intranasal
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 0.5–1 mg
- 200–400 mcg
- Frequency
- Daily until desired color achieved, then maintenance
- Once 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
- Rapid-onset antidepressant effects (within 24 hours)
- Promotes hippocampal neurogenesis
- Improves cognitive performance and memory
- Reduces anxiety and depressive behavior
- Novel mechanism — does not act on serotonin/dopamine/GABA receptors directly
- May help treatment-resistant depression
- Neuroprotective effects
- Side Effects
- Nausea (especially at higher doses)
- Facial flushing
- Fatigue
- Injection site reactions
- +3 more
- Generally well tolerated in animal models
- Limited human data available
- Possible mild headache or transient mood changes at initiation
- Injection site reactions (SC)
- Stacks With
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