Melanotan II vs Cortexin
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 →Cortexin
Cortexin is a polypeptide complex derived from pig brain cortex, used clinically in Russia and Eastern Europe for neurological conditions including stroke recovery, traumatic brain injury, and cognitive decline.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Melanotan II | Cortexin |
|---|---|---|
| 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. | Contains a mixture of neuropeptides and amino acids that support neuronal metabolism, provide neuroprotection, and enhance synaptic transmission. Specific mechanisms not fully characterized. |
| 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. | Clinical protocols: 10mg intramuscularly once daily for 10-20 days. May be repeated after 3-6 month interval. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection. Usually combined with UV exposure for tanning effects. Nasal spray formulations exist but have lower bioavailability. | Intramuscular injection. Comes as lyophilized powder requiring reconstitution. Treatment given in courses rather than continuously. |
| Side Effects | Nausea (common initially), facial flushing, spontaneous erections, increased libido, appetite suppression, and mole darkening. | Generally well-tolerated. May cause injection site reactions or mild allergic responses in sensitive individuals. |
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