MT-2 (Melanotan 2 Acetate) 10 mg – Melanocortin receptor agonist

What is Melanotan 2 (MT-2) 10 mg?

Melanotan 2 (MT-2) is a synthetic analog of the hormone α-MSH (melanocyte-stimulating hormone) and a non-selective agonist of the melanocortin receptors — it activates MC1R, MC3R and MC4R. Thanks to this, in the research literature it is described as a compound with a broad profile: it stimulates melanogenesis (skin pigmentation), and through central nervous system receptors it is also studied in the context of libido.

MT-2 belongs to the category peptides for skin, sleep and libido, alongside the more selective Melanotan 1 (MT-1) and the libido-targeted PT-141. It is precisely the broad, dual-directional profile (skin + libido) that distinguishes MT-2 from the other melanocortin peptides in the catalog.

It is a research compound — MT-2 does not have the status of an approved medicine in the EU. The product offered by Peptology is a research-grade reagent, not intended to diagnose or treat any conditions.

In the version offered by Peptology, MT-2 is available in a 10 mg vial as a lyophilized peptide (acetate) with purity above 99% (HPLC/MS), confirmed by independent laboratory analysis (CoA for every batch). The product is intended exclusively for scientific research and in vitro applications.

Variant: MT-2 10 mg

This page concerns a single dose variant — MT-2 10 mg. Each vial contains 10 mg of lyophilized Melanotan 2 peptide (acetate). This is the standard amount for research protocols on pigmentation and libido — sufficient for a „loading" and maintenance phase in one cycle, at small unit doses.

MT-2 is offered exclusively in the 10 mg variant. If you are looking for a melanocortin peptide with a narrower, more „skin"-focused profile, check Melanotan 1 (MT-1) 10 mg, and for a libido-targeted version — PT-141 10 mg.

How MT-2 works — the melanocortin mechanism

In the research literature, MT-2 is described as a broad-spectrum melanocortin agonist. Below are the three most frequently studied elements of its action.

Why non-selectivity sets MT-2 apart from MT-1

The melanocortin receptors (MC1R–MC5R) serve different functions. MT-1 acts relatively selectively on MC1R (mainly pigmentation), whereas MT-2 activates a broader spectrum — including MC4R, responsible for sexual function and appetite, among other things. That is why MT-2 is associated in studies with both tanning and libido, while PT-141 (its metabolite) is narrowly targeted at MC4R.

These data come from research on the melanocortin system and do not constitute a claim about the effect of the research-grade product offered by Peptology.

Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics (research framework)

MT-2 is a cyclic peptide with the profile of a broad-spectrum melanocortin agonist. The most important research features:

• Class: synthetic α-MSH analog, non-selective MC1R/MC3R/MC4R agonist
• Profile: dual-directional — pigmentation (MC1R) + libido (MC4R)
• Metabolite: PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is a derivative of MT-2 targeted at MC4R
• Cumulative effect: pigmentation builds up gradually over repeated administrations
• Reference concentration: 10 mg in 1 mL = 10 mg/mL (with 2 mL — 5 mg/mL)
• Route of administration in protocols: most often subcutaneous, per the research protocol

Comparison: MT-2 vs MT-1 vs PT-141

All three peptides from the skin/sleep/libido category are melanocortin agonists, but they differ in receptor selectivity and main research area. MT-2 has the broadest profile. The table below helps orient you to the differences.

MT-2 is „universal" — it combines pigmentation with an effect on libido. MT-1 is more selective (skin), and PT-141 is narrowly targeted at libido. This comparison is indicative in nature and does not constitute a recommendation for use.

Research areas for MT-2

MT-2 is one of the most recognizable melanocortin peptides in research on pigmentation and sexual function. Below are the most frequently explored directions — all at the research stage, without confirmed indications for the research-grade product.

Pigmentation and photoprotection

The main direction of research on MT-2 concerns the stimulation of melanogenesis. In models the compound is associated with gradual skin darkening, including with limited UV exposure, and with research on phototolerance.

Libido and sexual function

Through the activation of MC4R in the central nervous system, MT-2 is studied in the context of libido. It is precisely from this direction that PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is derived — a metabolite of MT-2 narrowly targeted at MC4R.

Broad profile vs selectivity

In comparisons, MT-2 is described as less selective than MT-1, which gives a broader profile of effects (including on appetite and libido), but also more potential systemic effects. These are research observations, not therapeutic applications.

Note: The information is presented for scientific and informational purposes and is based on the literature on the melanocortin system. It does not constitute medical advice, a recommendation for use or a claim about the effect of the research-grade product offered by Peptology.

MT-2 profile at a glance

• Broad-spectrum melanocortin agonist — an α-MSH analog acting on MC1R/MC3R/MC4R
• Dual-directional profile: melanogenesis (pigmentation) + effect on libido (MC4R)
• Less selective than MT-1 — a broader range of effects
• Related to PT-141, which is its metabolite targeted at MC4R
• Category: skin, sleep and libido — alongside GHK-Cu and DSIP
• Every batch with CoA and purity > 99% (HPLC/MS)

All information provided concerns research literature on MT-2 and should not be interpreted as a promise of effect, an instruction for use or a claim about the effect of the research-grade product offered by Peptology.

Research dosing protocols

In research protocols, MT-2 is usually administered after reconstitution of the lyophilizate, most often subcutaneously:

• The schedule described in the literature includes a „loading" phase (small doses over several to a dozen or so days) and a „maintenance" phase (less frequent administrations)
• The effect on pigmentation builds up gradually; because of its broad profile, MT-2 is sometimes used in smaller unit doses than MT-1
• After reconstituting 10 mg in 1 mL the concentration is 10 mg/mL — calculate precise volumes and units in the peptide calculator
• Maximum 3 mL of solvent per vial

Combining MT-2 with MT-1 is not recommended (different receptor profiles). These schedules come from the research literature and do not constitute a recommendation for self-administration.

Side effects and safety

MT-2 is a potent peptide with a broad profile, so it may cause more transient effects than the selective MT-1. Side effects are usually mild and resolve after a dose adjustment. The data concern research on the molecule.

Because of the effect on pigmentation, in research on melanocortins particular attention is paid to monitoring skin changes (e.g. moles). This information is scientific in nature and does not constitute an instruction for use.

Storage and reconstitution

MT-2 is supplied as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder in a vial. In lyophilized form it is stable at room temperature, protected from light and moisture — refrigeration before reconstitution is not mandatory. After reconstitution, stability depends on the solvent used, with Peptide Matrix Water™ significantly extending the peptide's lifespan.

• Before reconstitution: room temperature, in the original packaging, protected from light and moisture. A refrigerator is not mandatory.
• After reconstitution with Peptide Matrix Water™: stability in the refrigerator +2 °C to +8 °C for up to 60 days under appropriate laboratory conditions — the stabilizing formula extends the peptide's lifespan relative to standard solvents.
• After reconstitution with bacteriostatic or sterile water: stability in the refrigerator +2 °C to +8 °C for up to 28 days under appropriate conditions. Do not refreeze the reconstituted solution.
• Reconstitution: in a laboratory setting, Peptide Matrix Water™, bacteriostatic water or sterile water for injection is usually used, depending on the protocol.
• Volume: maximum 3 mL of solvent (capacity of a standard vial). For a precise calculation of volume and units, use the peptide calculator.
• Homogenization: add the solvent slowly down the vial wall, without vigorous shaking, then wait 10–15 min. Swirl gently, do not shake.

Laboratory tip: With your order, you can add Peptide Matrix Water™ to the cart — a stabilizing solution designed for working with reconstituted research peptides. More in the article Bacteriostatic water vs acetic acid vs matrix water.

Frequently asked questions about MT-2

What exactly is MT-2?

It is a synthetic analog of the hormone α-MSH and a broad-spectrum agonist of the melanocortin receptors (MC1R/MC3R/MC4R). In research it is associated with both the stimulation of melanogenesis (pigmentation) and an effect on libido. The results come from the research literature.

How does MT-2 differ from MT-1?

MT-2 is less selective — it activates a broader spectrum of melanocortin receptors, which is why in research it combines the effect on pigmentation with an effect on libido. MT-1 acts selectively on MC1R and has a narrower, more „skin"-focused profile.

How does MT-2 relate to PT-141?

PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is a metabolite of MT-2 narrowly targeted at the MC4R receptor — hence its use in research on libido without a marked pigmentation effect. MT-2 is the „broader" parent molecule.

Is MT-2 a medicine?

No. MT-2 is not an approved medicinal product. The product offered by Peptology is a research reagent (research-grade), not intended for use in humans.

How is MT-2 stored and reconstituted?

The lyophilized vial is stored at room temperature, protected from light and moisture. After reconstitution, stability depends on the solvent: with Peptide Matrix Water™ — up to 60 days in the refrigerator +2 °C to +8 °C; with bacteriostatic or sterile water — up to 28 days. Avoid refreezing.

Where to buy MT-2 for research?

Peptology offers MT-2 (10 mg) as a research peptide with confirmed purity above 99% and independent laboratory analysis for every batch. Fast shipping, discreet packaging and certificates of purity with the product. For scientific background, also see the article Peptides — what they are, how they work, main categories and safety profile.

Related products in the Peptology catalog

Researchers working with MT-2 often also consider related melanocortin peptides and other compounds from the skin/sleep/libido category. Each of the products below has a certificate of purity (CoA):

See the full catalog: Peptides for skin, sleep and libido · Peptides for energy and regeneration · Solutions for peptides · Blog on peptide research

Molecule identity

Laboratory reconstitution

Laboratory protocol — reconstitution, research protocols, storage

Standardized protocol applicable to all research peptides in the Peptology catalogue. To calculate the solution concentration (mg/mL) for each vial, use the peptide reconstitution calculator.

60-second protocol

Quick reference

What you need

Five rules for reconstitution

Calculating concentration

Storage

Four mistakes to avoid

Shipping information

🚚 Shipping information

• Products in our warehouse – orders placed by 15:00 on working days are dispatched the same day, later orders on the next working day.

• Delivery with GLS to your address in 3–5 working days.

• Shipping costs €5 and is free from €50.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

In what form is MT-2 (Melanotan II) supplied and how should it be stored?

It is supplied as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder in a sealed vial. Store the unopened vial dry and protected from light, ideally at 2–8 °C. After laboratory reconstitution, keep the solution at 2–8 °C and use it within the period stated in the “Laboratory reconstitution” tab (up to 60 days with Peptide Matrix Water).

What purity does MT-2 (Melanotan II) have and how is it tested?

Every batch has a purity of 99% or higher, confirmed by HPLC and mass spectrometry (MS) and documented in a certificate of analysis (CoA). The report for the current batch is shown in the “Laboratory Analysis” tab.

Is a prescription required?

No – the product is offered for research purposes only.

Where can I buy MT-2 in Europe and what does it cost?

You can buy MT-2 in Europe online from Peptology, from 35,00 €. Delivery with GLS in 3–5 working days. Shipping is free from 50,00 €. Payment by card. Purity 99%+, with an HPLC report for every batch.

Laboratory Analysis

MT-2 (Melanotan 2) - 10mg - Batch - 0226 - Purity