Melanotan I vs BNP (B-type Natriuretic Peptide)
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
Melanotan I
Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It is FDA-approved as Scenesse for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a rare genetic disorder causing severe sun sensitivity.
Full details →BNP (B-type Natriuretic Peptide)
BNP is a cardiac neurohormone released primarily by ventricles in response to volume/pressure overload. It's a major biomarker for heart failure and has therapeutic applications as nesiritide.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Melanotan I | BNP (B-type Natriuretic Peptide) |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Binds to melanocortin 1 receptors (MC1R) on melanocytes, stimulating eumelanin production. This increases skin pigmentation and provides photoprotection without UV exposure. | Similar to ANP - activates NPR-A receptors to produce vasodilation, natriuresis, and RAAS suppression. Released in response to ventricular wall stress. |
| Typical Dosage | Clinical: 16mg implant every 2 months. Research protocols for tanning typically use 0.5-1mg daily for loading, then maintenance dosing. | Nesiritide (recombinant BNP): 2mcg/kg IV bolus followed by 0.01mcg/kg/min continuous infusion for acute decompensated heart failure. |
| Administration | FDA-approved form is a subcutaneous implant. Research use involves subcutaneous injection. Often combined with minimal UV exposure to enhance results. | Intravenous administration only. Used in acute care settings for heart failure. BNP levels also used diagnostically. |
| Side Effects | Nausea (especially initially), facial flushing, fatigue, headache, and darkening of existing moles or freckles. | Hypotension (common and dose-limiting), headache, nausea, and potential renal function worsening in some patients. |
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