Melanotan II vs Substance P
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 →Substance P
Substance P is an 11-amino acid neuropeptide involved in pain transmission, inflammation, and various neurological processes. While not used therapeutically itself, understanding it is crucial for pain research.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Melanotan II | Substance P |
|---|---|---|
| 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. | Binds primarily to NK1 receptors to transmit pain signals from peripheral nerves to the CNS. Also promotes inflammation, causes vasodilation, and stimulates immune cells. |
| 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. | Not used as a therapeutic agent. NK1 receptor antagonists (blocking Substance P) are used clinically for chemotherapy-induced nausea. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection. Usually combined with UV exposure for tanning effects. Nasal spray formulations exist but have lower bioavailability. | Research compound only. Therapeutic applications focus on blocking rather than administering Substance P. |
| Side Effects | Nausea (common initially), facial flushing, spontaneous erections, increased libido, appetite suppression, and mole darkening. | Administration would cause pain, inflammation, and neurogenic responses. Not given therapeutically. |
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