Study summary · research use only
Melanotan II: a possible cause of renal infarction: review of the literature and case report
Plain-language summary
Paraphrased from the published abstract below — not a verdict on whether anything works.
This is a literature review and case report (human) describing Melanotan II, a non-selective melanocortin-receptor agonist used to increase skin pigmentation and reported to produce spontaneous penile erection and sexual stimulation, in relation to renal infarction. The abstract reports a case of renal infarction most likely attributed to Melanotan II, alongside prior descriptions of Melanotan II inducing rhabdomyolysis and renal failure. The authors discuss thrombotic pharmacological influence and possible direct toxic effects on renal parenchyma as mechanisms to consider in Melanotan II-associated renal injury.
Abstract
Renal infarction is an uncommon condition resulting from an acute disruption of renal blood flow and it is potentially life-threatening disease. The cause and outcome of renal infarction is not well established and is frequently misdiagnosed or diagnosed late. Melanotan II is a non-selective melanocortin-receptor agonist and its effect on humans is an increasing of skin pigmentation, producing of spontaneous penile erection and sexual stimulation. Melanotan II inducing rhabdomyolysis and renal failure have been described previously. We present a review of Melanotan II and the possible effects of this drug on the kidneys by including a case of a renal infarction most likely attributed to Melanotan II. In the mechanism of renal injury with Melanotan II, thrombotic pharmacological influence and possible direct toxic effect on renal parenchyma must be considered.
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