Study summary · research use only
Risks of unregulated use of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone analogues: a review
Plain-language summary
Paraphrased from the published abstract below — not a verdict on whether anything works.
This review (species not specified) discusses risks of unregulated use of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) analogues known as melanotan I and II, used primarily for tan-stimulating effects. It reviews the history of afamelanotide, the only alpha-MSH analogue approved for a limited number of medical indications, and describes illegal melanotans as carrying risks related to preparation, administration, and dosage. The review reports that case reports have linked unregulated melanotan I and II use to cutaneous complications, particularly melanocytic changes in existing moles and new dysplastic nevi, including four case reports describing melanomas emerging from existing moles during or shortly after melanotan use, while noting conclusive evidence linking these phenomena is lacking. The authors note multiple national health organizations have issued safety warnings about melanotan I and II.
Abstract
Recently, the unregulated use of untested synthetic alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) analogues, commonly known as melanotan I and II, appears to have increased. These analogues are primarily used for their tan-stimulating effects. Dermatologists see many patients in their clinic who tan. This review provides an overview of the risks of the unregulated use of these substances. Other topics discussed here include the history and safety of afamelanotide, which is the only α-MSH analogue that is approved for use in a limited number of medical indications. Although afamelanotide has been thoroughly tested and deemed safe, illegal melanotans are likely risky for several reasons. There are questions regarding the preparation, administration, and dosage of these substances. In addition to these general risks, increasing numbers of case reports indicate that the unregulated use of both melanotan I and II is associated with cutaneous complications, particularly melanocytic changes in existing moles and newly emerging (dysplastic) nevi. Four case reports have described melanomas emerging from existing moles either during or shortly after the use of melanotan. Although conclusive evidence linking these phenomena is lacking, publications have stressed the importance of awareness that melanotan is a part of a 'tanning culture' in certain subpopulations. Multiple national health organizations have issued safety warnings regarding the use of melanotan I and II.
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