Melanotan 1 vs PGPIPN
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & CosmeticSexual Health & Libido
Melanotan 1Immune Support
PGPIPN- 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.
- PGPIPN is a bioactive hexapeptide (Pro-Gly-Pro-Ile-Pro-Asn) derived from beta-casein during enzymatic digestion. It exhibits anti-inflammatory properties via opioid receptor modulation and cytokine suppression, making it relevant for gut health, systemic inflammation, and as a component of casein-derived functional foods.
- Half-Life
- ~40–60 minutes (free peptide); implant formulation (SCENESSE) releases over months
- Estimated 30-120 minutes (peptide degradation)
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- Oral, Subcutaneous (research)
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 0.5–1 mg
- 200-500 mg per day
- Frequency
- Daily until desired color achieved, then maintenance
- Once or twice 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
- Anti-inflammatory effects via cytokine suppression
- Gut mucosal protection and intestinal barrier support
- Opioid receptor modulation for gut motility regulation
- Potential analgesic activity via central and peripheral opioid pathways
- Explored for inflammatory bowel conditions and gut dysbiosis
- Natural origin (food-derived) with favorable safety profile
- Side Effects
- Nausea (especially at higher doses)
- Facial flushing
- Fatigue
- Injection site reactions
- +3 more
- Generally very well-tolerated given food-derived origin
- Theoretical opioid-mediated constipation at high doses
- Rare milk protein allergy in casein-sensitive individuals
- Stacks With
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