Side-by-side comparison of mechanisms, dosing, interactions, and stacking potential.
| Melanotan II | Sermorelin | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Peptides | Peptides |
| Standard Dose | Research indicates 250-500 mcg daily via subcutaneous injection during loading, reducing to 250 mcg 2-3 times weekly for maintenance. | Research indicates 200-300 mcg administered once daily at bedtime via subcutaneous injection. |
| Timing | Administer 4-6 hours before UV exposure for optimal tanning synergy. Can be taken at any time of day. | Bedtime administration (aligns with natural nocturnal GH release). On empty stomach. |
| Cycle Duration | Loading phase 1-2 weeks, then maintenance as long as desired. Pigmentation fades gradually upon discontinuation. | 12-24 week cycles. Some protocols use continuous treatment. |
| Evidence Level | moderate_human | strong_human |
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.
Sermorelin is a synthetic 29-amino acid peptide representing the biologically active fragment of GHRH (amino acids 1-29) with full functional activity. It activates GHRH receptors on pituitary somatotrophs, stimulating cAMP production via Gs protein/adenylate cyclase and MAP kinase pathways. Due to the interactive effects of sermorelin and endogenous somatostatin, GH release is episodic rather than continuous. Sermorelin also stimulates pituitary gene transcription of GH mRNA, increasing and preserving pituitary GH reserve.
Research indicates 200-300 mcg administered once daily at bedtime via subcutaneous injection.
Bedtime administration (aligns with natural nocturnal GH release). On empty stomach.
12-24 week cycles. Some protocols use continuous treatment.
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