# Afamelanotide

> Afamelanotide is an approved synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone formulated as a slow-release subcutaneous implant. It is indicated to increase pain-free light exposure in adults with erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a genetic condition causing severe phototoxic skin reactions. Unlike the related research compound Melanotan I, afamelanotide has gone through formal clinical trials and holds regulatory approval (FDA and EMA) for this specific indication. The implant provides sustained drug release over roughly two months per dose.

- URL: https://www.lifeconverted.com/peptides/afamelanotide
- Also known as: Scenesse
- Primary category: Other & Clinical
- Effectiveness rank: #8 in Skin & Cosmetic; #9 in Other & Clinical
- Evidence level: Well studied
- Route: Subcutaneous (Delivered as a biodegradable subcutaneous implant inserted by a healthcare provider, not as a standard needle injection.)
- Dose range: 16-16 mg
- Dose tiers: low 16 mg; moderate 16 mg; high 16 mg
- Half-life: Parent peptide half-life approximately 1 hour, but the implant sustains clinical effect for about 2 months per dose
- Timing: As directed by your clinician
- Cycle: One implant every 2 months, often timed around periods of higher expected light exposure per prescriber guidance on, Between implants per the approved dosing interval off (Used as an ongoing approved implant regimen rather than a self-directed on/off research cycle.)
- Storage: Refrigerate the implant at 2-8°C until administration.

## Mechanism of action

Sustained agonism of the melanocortin-1 receptor on melanocytes increases eumelanin synthesis, building a protective pigment barrier that reduces phototoxic reactions triggered by protoporphyrin IX accumulation characteristic of EPP.

## Reported benefits

- Increases tolerance to sunlight and visible light exposure in EPP patients
- Reduces frequency and severity of phototoxic reactions
- Backed by controlled clinical trial evidence
- Regulatory-approved indication with defined dosing

## Reported side effects

- Implant site pain, bruising, or discoloration
- Nausea
- Headache
- Skin darkening or changes in existing nevi

## Common protocols

- Erythropoietic protoporphyria photoprotection, per the approved implant regimen

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Educational information only, not medical advice. Full disclaimer: https://www.lifeconverted.com/disclaimer