Side-by-side comparison of mechanisms, dosing, interactions, and stacking potential.
| 5-Amino-1MQ | Melanotan II | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Peptides | Peptides |
| Standard Dose | Research indicates 50-150 mg daily via oral administration, typically divided into 1-2 doses. | Research indicates 250-500 mcg daily via subcutaneous injection during loading, reducing to 250 mcg 2-3 times weekly for maintenance. |
| Timing | Morning dosing preferred. Can be taken with or without food. | Administer 4-6 hours before UV exposure for optimal tanning synergy. Can be taken at any time of day. |
| Cycle Duration | 8-12 week cycles. | Loading phase 1-2 weeks, then maintenance as long as desired. Pigmentation fades gradually upon discontinuation. |
| Evidence Level | animal_plus_anecdotal | moderate_human |
5-Amino-1MQ is a small molecule inhibitor of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT), an enzyme that catalyzes the transfer of a methyl group from S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) to nicotinamide, generating 1-methylnicotinamide (1-MNA). By inhibiting NNMT, 5-Amino-1MQ increases intracellular NAD+ levels, reduces 1-MNA production, suppresses lipogenesis in adipocytes, and modulates the methionine-homocysteine cycle. In vivo, it significantly reduces body weight, white adipose mass, and adipocyte size through enhanced energy expenditure and altered lipid metabolism.
Research indicates 50-150 mg daily via oral administration, typically divided into 1-2 doses.
Morning dosing preferred. Can be taken with or without food.
8-12 week cycles.
Melanotan II is a synthetic cyclic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) that non-selectively agonizes melanocortin receptors MC1, MC3, MC4, and MC5. MC1R activation stimulates eumelanin synthesis through tyrosinase upregulation, producing tanning. MC3R activation in the CNS increases libido and produces erectile responses. MC4R activation suppresses appetite. The cyclic structure provides enhanced in vivo stability (half-life 1-2 hours) and increased blood-brain barrier permeability compared to linear alpha-MSH.
Research indicates 250-500 mcg daily via subcutaneous injection during loading, reducing to 250 mcg 2-3 times weekly for maintenance.
Administer 4-6 hours before UV exposure for optimal tanning synergy. Can be taken at any time of day.
Loading phase 1-2 weeks, then maintenance as long as desired. Pigmentation fades gradually upon discontinuation.
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