Melanotan I vs SHLP2
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 →SHLP2
SHLP2 (Small Humanin-Like Peptide 2) is a mitochondrial-derived peptide similar to humanin. It has shown insulin-sensitizing and cytoprotective effects in research, with potential metabolic benefits.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Melanotan I | SHLP2 |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Binds to melanocortin 1 receptors (MC1R) on melanocytes, stimulating eumelanin production. This increases skin pigmentation and provides photoprotection without UV exposure. | Enhances insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake. Provides cytoprotective effects similar to humanin. May act through similar but distinct receptor pathways. |
| Typical Dosage | Clinical: 16mg implant every 2 months. Research protocols for tanning typically use 0.5-1mg daily for loading, then maintenance dosing. | Research compound with doses in the microgram to low milligram range studied in animal models. Human dosing not established. |
| Administration | FDA-approved form is a subcutaneous implant. Research use involves subcutaneous injection. Often combined with minimal UV exposure to enhance results. | Subcutaneous or intraperitoneal injection in research settings. Various SHLP analogs (1-6) have different properties. |
| Side Effects | Nausea (especially initially), facial flushing, fatigue, headache, and darkening of existing moles or freckles. | Limited data. Animal studies suggest good tolerability. May affect glucose metabolism. |
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