Melanotan I vs Oxytocin
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 →Oxytocin
Oxytocin is a natural hormone produced in the hypothalamus, often called the 'love hormone' or 'bonding hormone.' It plays key roles in social bonding, childbirth, lactation, and stress regulation.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Melanotan I | Oxytocin |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Binds to melanocortin 1 receptors (MC1R) on melanocytes, stimulating eumelanin production. This increases skin pigmentation and provides photoprotection without UV exposure. | Binds to oxytocin receptors in the brain and peripheral tissues. Promotes social bonding, reduces anxiety and stress response, and has various peripheral effects on smooth muscle contraction. |
| Typical Dosage | Clinical: 16mg implant every 2 months. Research protocols for tanning typically use 0.5-1mg daily for loading, then maintenance dosing. | Intranasal: 20-40 IU (international units) for social/anxiolytic effects. Clinical uses (labor induction) require IV administration under medical supervision. |
| Administration | FDA-approved form is a subcutaneous implant. Research use involves subcutaneous injection. Often combined with minimal UV exposure to enhance results. | Intranasal spray for behavioral effects. IV only in clinical settings. Sublingual also possible. Best used situationally rather than continuously. |
| Side Effects | Nausea (especially initially), facial flushing, fatigue, headache, and darkening of existing moles or freckles. | Intranasal: headache, nasal irritation, drowsiness. May cause over-attachment or emotional sensitivity. IV (clinical): uterine hyperstimulation, water retention. |
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