Melanotan II 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 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 →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 II | BNP (B-type Natriuretic Peptide) |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist affecting MC1R (tanning), MC3R and MC4R (sexual function and appetite). This broader activity explains its multiple effects beyond tanning. | Similar to ANP - activates NPR-A receptors to produce vasodilation, natriuresis, and RAAS suppression. Released in response to ventricular wall stress. |
| Typical Dosage | 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. | Nesiritide (recombinant BNP): 2mcg/kg IV bolus followed by 0.01mcg/kg/min continuous infusion for acute decompensated heart failure. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection. Usually combined with UV exposure for tanning effects. Nasal spray formulations exist but have lower bioavailability. | Intravenous administration only. Used in acute care settings for heart failure. BNP levels also used diagnostically. |
| Side Effects | Nausea (common initially), facial flushing, spontaneous erections, increased libido, appetite suppression, and mole darkening. | Hypotension (common and dose-limiting), headache, nausea, and potential renal function worsening in some patients. |
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