Melanotan II vs HGH Fragment 176-191
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 →HGH Fragment 176-191
HGH Fragment 176-191 is the fat-reducing portion of the growth hormone molecule. Unlike AOD-9604 (which has an additional tyrosine), this is the exact fragment of HGH responsible for lipolytic effects.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Melanotan II | HGH Fragment 176-191 |
|---|---|---|
| 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. | Mimics the lipolytic region of growth hormone, stimulating fat breakdown and inhibiting lipogenesis without affecting blood sugar or promoting growth. Works independently of GH receptors. |
| 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. | Typical dosing: 250-500mcg daily, often split into 2-3 doses. Usually administered on empty stomach, often with fasted cardio. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection. Usually combined with UV exposure for tanning effects. Nasal spray formulations exist but have lower bioavailability. | Subcutaneous injection. Best results when used fasted and combined with exercise. Avoid eating for 30 minutes post-injection. |
| Side Effects | Nausea (common initially), facial flushing, spontaneous erections, increased libido, appetite suppression, and mole darkening. | Generally well-tolerated. May cause injection site irritation, temporary lethargy, or headache. Does not affect blood glucose significantly. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
Both Melanotan II and HGH Fragment 176-191 are commonly used for: