Melanotan II (MT-2) is a synthetic peptide, a lab-created version of the natural hormone alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), primarily used (often illegally or in research) for sunless tanning by increasing skin pigmentation and for potential fat loss, but it carries significant side effects like nausea, spontaneous erections, and potential long-term health risks due to lack of regulation and testing, requiring subcutaneous injections for administration.

How it Works:

Stimulates Melanin: MT-2 binds to melanocortin receptors, triggering melanin production, which darkens skin.
Affects Appetite & Libido: It also acts on other melanocortin receptors (MC3R, MC4R) in the brain, affecting appetite, libido, and fat regulation.

Common Uses & Effects:

Tanning: Induces a tan without sun exposure.
Libido & Erections: Known to increase libido and cause spontaneous erections.
Fat Loss: Some evidence suggests it can reduce abdominal fat.

Side Effects:

Nausea, flushing, increased blood pressure, headaches, spontaneous erections, fatigue, and potential liver issues.

Status & Risks:

Unregulated: Not approved by major health bodies for human use, leading to unknown purity, dosage, and long-term safety.
Risky: The unregulated nature means users face risks from contaminated products or unknown health consequences.

In Summary: MT-2 offers cosmetic tanning and potential other effects but comes with significant side effects and unknown long-term safety due to its unregulated status, making it a risky substance for recreational use.