Melanotan I Side Effects

Known side effects

The following side effects have been reported in clinical trials for Melanotan I:

• Nausea (mild, less frequent than MT-II)
• Headache
• Injection site reactions (subcutaneous implant)
• Skin darkening (therapeutic effect, but can be uneven)
• Darkening of existing moles and freckles
• Lip discoloration

Severity and frequency

Clinical trial data provides specific frequency data for Melanotan I side effects. Most common side effects are mild to moderate and often improve with continued use or dose adjustment.

When to seek medical attention

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience:

• Severe or persistent symptoms that do not improve
• Signs of an allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
• Severe abdominal pain
• Changes in vision or neurological symptoms
• Any symptom that concerns you

Risk factors

Side effect risk may be higher in certain populations. Discuss your complete medical history with your doctor, including:

• Pre-existing medical conditions
• Current medications (drug interactions)
• Pregnancy or plans to become pregnant
• History of allergic reactions to peptides or similar compounds

Research references

• Afamelanotide for Erythropoietic Protoporphyria — New England Journal of Medicine (2015) [PubMed]
• Three-year observational study of afamelanotide in erythropoietic protoporphyria — British Journal of Dermatology (2020) [PubMed]
• Tanning and cutaneous melanin synthesis with subcutaneous melanotan-I and UV exposure — Journal of Investigative Dermatology (2004) [PubMed]