AOD-9604 vs Melanotan II
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
AOD-9604
AOD-9604 is a modified fragment of human growth hormone (HGH fragment 176-191). It was developed to have the fat-reducing effects of growth hormone without the adverse effects on blood sugar or growth.
Full details →Melanotan II
Melanotan II is a synthetic peptide analog of α-MSH with broader receptor activity than Melanotan I. It produces tanning effects and has notable effects on sexual function and appetite suppression.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | AOD-9604 | Melanotan II |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Stimulates lipolysis (fat breakdown) and inhibits lipogenesis (fat accumulation) without affecting blood sugar or growth. Works specifically on adipose tissue through a mechanism independent of GH receptors. | Non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist affecting MC1R (tanning), MC3R and MC4R (sexual function and appetite). This broader activity explains its multiple effects beyond tanning. |
| Typical Dosage | Research dosing typically ranges from 250-500mcg daily, often split into morning and afternoon doses. Some protocols use higher doses up to 1mg. | Typical protocols: 0.25-0.5mg daily during loading phase for 1-2 weeks, then 0.5-1mg before UV exposure for maintenance. Start low to assess tolerance. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection, typically in the abdominal area. Best administered on an empty stomach. Can be combined with exercise for enhanced effects. | Subcutaneous injection. Usually combined with UV exposure for tanning effects. Nasal spray formulations exist but have lower bioavailability. |
| Side Effects | Generally well-tolerated. May cause headaches, injection site reactions, or temporary lethargy. Does not affect blood glucose like full GH. | Nausea (common initially), facial flushing, spontaneous erections, increased libido, appetite suppression, and mole darkening. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
Both AOD-9604 and Melanotan II are commonly used for: