Also activates MC3R/MC4R (affecting appetite and sexual function) and MC5R (sebaceous glands). Originally developed at University of Arizona.
No approved clinical use. Selective MC4R agonist bremelanotide/Vyleesi (FDA-approved) is the preferred alternative for HSDD.
CRITICAL: Melanoma or ANY history of melanoma. Atypical mole syndrome. Cardiovascular disease. Numerous moles/nevi. Pregnancy. Autoimmune conditions.
Tanning and libido effects confirmed. Safety concerns due to non-selective MC receptor activation across 5 subtypes. FDA and TGA have issued safety communications.
- 1.Hadley ME et al., Peptides 2005 — melanogenesis mechanism and original University of Arizona development history
- 2.King SH et al., Peptides 2007 — comparison with selective MC4R agonists for sexual dysfunction
Non-selective receptor activation causes multiple off-target effects. FDA and TGA safety communications issued.
Selective MC4R agonists (bremelanotide/Vyleesi, FDA-approved for HSDD) are the preferred successor.