Melanotan 1 timeline: what research and user reports show

Melanotan 1 is closely related to the approved drug afamelanotide, and it is generally reported as gentler than Melanotan 2, since it is more selective for the melanocortin receptor tied to pigmentation rather than the broader receptor activity linked to Melanotan 2's other effects.

First doses: mild nausea

Mild nausea is the most commonly reported effect with the first few doses, generally described as easing with continued use. Reports of the flushing and libido effects associated with Melanotan 2 are far less common with Melanotan 1.

Weeks 1 to 3: pigmentation response

A visible tanning response, in combination with UV exposure, is the effect most people are tracking, and it is commonly reported to build gradually over one to three weeks rather than appearing after a single dose.

Common questions

Why choose Melanotan 1 over Melanotan 2? It is reported to produce a similar pigmentation effect with less nausea, flushing and appetite change, since it is more selective for the receptor involved in pigmentation.

For mechanism, dosing reference and citations, see the Melanotan 1 reference page.