Description
QuickStart Highlights
Melanotan I is a synthetic analogue of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone studied for its ability to increase skin pigmentation and noted for inducing erectile activity as a side effect Early human trials identified effective daily doses in the range of 1–2 mg for tanning, with conservative protocols starting lower to minimize side effects such as nausea and flushing. This educational protocol presents a once-daily subcutaneous titration approach using practical dilution for clear insulin-syringe measurements.
- Reconstitute: Add 3.0 mL bacteriostatic water → 3.33 mg/mL concentration.
- Typical daily range: 250–1000 mcg once daily (gradual titration over 8–12 weeks).
- Easy measuring: At 3.33 mg/mL, 1 unit = 0.01 mL ≈ 33.3 mcg on a U-100 insulin syringe.
- Storage: Lyophilized: freeze at −20 °C (−4 °F) or below; after reconstitution, refrigerate at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F); use within 1–2 weeks.
Dosing & Reconstitution Guide
Educational guide for reconstitution and daily dosing
Standard / Gradual Titration (3 mL = 3.33 mg/mL)
| Week / Phase | Daily Dose | Units (per injection) (mL) |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | 250 mcg (0.25 mg) | 7.5 units (0.075 mL) |
| Week 2 | 500 mcg (0.5 mg) | 15 units (0.15 mL) |
| Week 3 | 750 mcg (0.75 mg) | 22.5 units (0.225 mL) |
| Weeks 4–8 | 1000 mcg (1 mg) | 30 units (0.30 mL) |
| Maintenance (after Week 8) |
500–1000 mcg (1–2× weekly) |
15–30 units (0.15–0.30 mL) |
Frequency: Inject once daily subcutaneously during the initial 8-week tanning phase; transition to 1–2 injections per week for maintenance dosing to sustain pigmentation. This schedule uses the standard 3.0 mL dilution for consistent unit measurements. For ≤10-unit (≤0.10 mL) administrations, consider 30- or 50-unit insulin syringes for improved readability.
Reconstitution Steps
- Draw 3.0 mL bacteriostatic water with a sterile syringe.
- Inject slowly down the vial wall to avoid foaming; do not shake vigorously.
- Gently roll or swirl the vial until the powder is fully dissolved.
- Label the vial with the reconstitution date and store refrigerated at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F), protected from light.
