Melanotan II vs MOTS-c
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Sexual Health & Libido
Melanotan IIAnti-Aging & Longevity
MOTS-c- Summary
- Melanotan II is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) that stimulates melanin production (skin tanning), suppresses appetite, and enhances sexual function. It is not FDA-approved and has significant safety concerns including mole changes and cardiovascular effects.
- MOTS-c is a mitochondria-derived peptide (MDP) encoded within the mitochondrial genome. It acts as a metabolic regulator, improving insulin sensitivity, enhancing exercise capacity, and counteracting age-related metabolic decline. It is often called a 'mitochondrial hormone.'
- Half-Life
- 1–2 hours
- Estimated 1–2 hours
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- SubQ
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 0.25–0.5 mg
- 5–15 mg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- 3–5 times per week
- Key Benefits
- Promotes skin tanning and melanin production
- Reduces UV exposure needed to tan
- Enhances libido and sexual function
- May suppress appetite
- Faster, deeper tan development
- Longer-lasting tan maintenance
- Potential photoprotective effects
- Improves insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism
- Enhances exercise capacity and endurance
- Reduces age-related metabolic decline
- Activates AMPK — the master metabolic regulator
- Promotes fat oxidation
- Anti-inflammatory effects
- May extend healthspan via mitochondrial optimization
- Increases energy and reduces fatigue
- Side Effects
- Nausea (very common, especially in first days)
- Facial flushing
- Spontaneous erections in men
- Darkening or changes in existing moles (monitor closely)
- +3 more
- Injection site irritation
- Fatigue during initial adaptation
- Unknown long-term profile (limited human data)
- Stacks With
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