Melanotan II vs Noopept
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 →Noopept
Noopept (N-phenylacetyl-L-prolylglycine ethyl ester) is a peptide-derived nootropic developed in Russia. While technically a dipeptide prodrug rather than a true peptide, it's often discussed alongside peptide nootropics.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Melanotan II | Noopept |
|---|---|---|
| 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. | Metabolized to cycloprolylglycine which modulates AMPA and NMDA receptors, increases NGF and BDNF expression, and provides neuroprotective effects through antioxidant mechanisms. |
| 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. | Oral: 10-30mg daily, typically divided into 2-3 doses. Sublingual use may enhance absorption. Some users go higher but effects may plateau. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection. Usually combined with UV exposure for tanning effects. Nasal spray formulations exist but have lower bioavailability. | Oral or sublingual administration. Unlike most peptides, it's orally bioavailable. Can be taken with or without food. |
| Side Effects | Nausea (common initially), facial flushing, spontaneous erections, increased libido, appetite suppression, and mole darkening. | Headache (often from choline depletion), irritability, insomnia if taken late, and occasional brain fog during initial use. |
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