Side-by-side comparison of mechanisms, dosing, interactions, and stacking potential.
| Melanotan II | SS-31 (Elamipretide) | |
|---|---|---|
| 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 0.05-0.25 mg/kg daily via subcutaneous injection. Clinical trials used 4-40 mg/day IV or SC. |
| Timing | Administer 4-6 hours before UV exposure for optimal tanning synergy. Can be taken at any time of day. | Morning dosing preferred. No food timing restrictions. |
| Cycle Duration | Loading phase 1-2 weeks, then maintenance as long as desired. Pigmentation fades gradually upon discontinuation. | Clinical trials ranged from single dose to 48 weeks. Optimal cycle length not established. |
| Evidence Level | moderate_human | Emerging (Phase 2/3 trials) |
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.
SS-31 (D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2, also known as elamipretide/Bendavia) is a cell-permeable tetrapeptide that localizes to the inner mitochondrial membrane and binds cardiolipin via electrostatic interactions. This stabilizes cardiolipin against oxidative damage, preserving cristae integrity, reducing ROS production, and maintaining mitochondrial ATP production. SS-31 interacts with proteins in two functional groups: oxidative phosphorylation complexes and 2-oxoglutarate metabolic enzymes — all known cardiolipin binders. It restores mitochondrial function without acting as a direct antioxidant.
Research indicates 0.05-0.25 mg/kg daily via subcutaneous injection. Clinical trials used 4-40 mg/day IV or SC.
Morning dosing preferred. No food timing restrictions.
Clinical trials ranged from single dose to 48 weeks. Optimal cycle length not established.
Take our free assessment to get personalized recommendations based on your health goals, current stack, and biomarkers.
Get Your Free Protocol →or take the assessment →