Afamelanotide
From PeptidePlaza, the free peptide reference · Entry #1003 · Anti-Aging · Sources fetched 2026-09-10 · Editorial standards
Afamelanotide (also known as Melanotan, 4-Norleucyl-7-phenylalanine-alpha-msh, (Nle(4),D-Phe(7))alpha-MSH, 4-Nle-7-Phe-alpha-MSH) is a anti-aging research peptide. Afamelanotide is a melanocortin receptor 1 agonist indicated to increase pain-free light exposure in adult patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP).
Afamelanotide, also known as Melanotan, is a synthetic peptide that acts as a melanocortin receptor 1 (MC1-R) agonist. It is approved by the FDA to increase pain-free light exposure in adult patients who have a history of phototoxic reactions from erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). The compound works by stimulating melanin production, which helps protect the skin from light damage. Afamelanotide is administered subcutaneously and was first approved in 2014. Research on afamelanotide also explores its potential in conditions like vitiligo.
1 Mechanism of action
Melanocortin receptor 1 agonist (agonist)
Primary targets: Melanocortin receptor 1
2 Reported effects
Effects below are those reported in the published literature cited on this page. They are not claims of clinical benefit and not medical advice.
2.1 Indicated / studied for
- Increased pain-free light exposure in adult patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP)
2.2 Side effects
- Implant site reaction
- Nausea
- Oropharyngeal pain
- Cough
- Fatigue
- Skin hyperpigmentation
3 Chemical and physical properties
| CAS number | 75921-69-6 |
|---|---|
| Molar mass | 1646.8 g/mol |
| Purity (typical) | Not independently verified |
| Half-life | ~15 hours |
| Brand names | SCENESSE |
| Route | SUBCUTANEOUS |
| Storage | −20 °C, lyophilised powder, desiccated |
| Solubility | Sterile water / bacteriostatic water |
| Receptors / targets | Melanocortin receptor 1 |
3.1 Amino acid sequence
Ac-Ser-Tyr-Ser-Nle-Glu-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Gly-Lys-Pro-Val-NH2
4 Research dosages
Insert a single SCENESSE implant subcutaneously above the anterior supra-iliac crest every 2 months.
5 Research studies (7)
- Vitiligo: Pathogenesis and New and Emerging Treatments
International journal of molecular sciences (2023) · Review - Vitiligo, from Pathogenesis to Therapeutic Advances: State of the Art
International journal of molecular sciences (2023) · Review - Afamelanotide
(2012) · Review - From pathogenesis of acne vulgaris to anti-acne agents
Archives of dermatological research (2019) · Review - Treatment Advances in Vitiligo: An Updated Review
Dermatology practical & conceptual (2025) · Review - X-Linked Protoporphyria
(1993) · Review - Phototherapy for Vitiligo
Dermatologic clinics (2020) · Review
6 Safety and risk profile
6.1 Regulatory status
Afamelanotide is currently classified as FDA approved. Approval applies to specific clinical indications and dosing; research-grade material is not the approved product.
6.2 Contraindications
Conditions and populations in which use is contraindicated:
- History of severe hypersensitivity reaction to afamelanotide or to any of the excipients in SCENESSE
6.3 Long-term risks
- Serious hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis
- Generalized increased skin pigmentation
- Darkening of pre-existing nevi and ephelides
6.4 Research best practices
- Store in a refrigerator at 2°C – 8°C (36°F-46°F)
- Protect from light
7 Frequently asked questions
- What is afamelanotide used for?
- Afamelanotide is indicated to increase pain-free light exposure in adult patients who have a history of phototoxic reactions from erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). It helps protect the skin from light damage in individuals with this condition.
- How does afamelanotide work?
- Afamelanotide functions as a melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1-R) agonist. By activating this receptor, it stimulates the production of melanin, a pigment that provides photoprotection to the skin, thereby increasing tolerance to light.
- Is afamelanotide FDA approved?
- Yes, afamelanotide is FDA approved. It received approval in 2014 for its indicated use in adult patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP).
- What are the side effects of afamelanotide?
- Common side effects of afamelanotide include implant site reactions, nausea, oropharyngeal pain, cough, fatigue, and skin hyperpigmentation. Patients should be monitored for these and other potential adverse reactions.
- How is afamelanotide administered?
- Afamelanotide is administered via subcutaneous implant. This method allows for sustained release of the medication over a period, typically every two months.
8 References
- Afamelanotide — compound summary PubChem. View source
- Afamelanotide — molecule record ChEMBL. View source
- Afamelanotide — FDA approved prescribing information U.S. Food and Drug Administration. View source
- Afamelanotide — published literature (104 records) PubMed. View source
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