Melanotan II vs Tadalafil
A side-by-side research comparison of Melanotan II and Tadalafil across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Melanotan II | Tadalafil |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Melanotan II (MT-II) | Tadalafil (Cialis) |
| Category | Sexual Health | Sexual Health |
| Status | Research compound | FDA-approved prescription |
| Mechanism | Non-selective MCR agonist: MC1R produces tanning, MC3R/MC4R increase sexual arousal, MC4R suppresses appetite. Broader receptor activity than PT-141. | Selectively inhibits phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), preventing cGMP breakdown in smooth muscle. This enhances nitric oxide signaling for vasodilation in penile, pulmonary, and prostate tissue. |
| Molecular weight | 1,024 Da | 389.40 Da |
| Half-life | 2-3 hours | ~17.5 hours |
| Bioavailability | High (SubQ) | ~36% oral |
| Typical dose | 0.25-1 mg | 2.5-5 mg daily or 10-20 mg as needed |
| Frequency | Loading: daily/EOD · then 2x weekly maintenance | Daily or on-demand |
| Route | Subcutaneous injection | Oral tablet |
Melanotan II reported benefits
- Skin tanning
- Enhanced sexual function
- Appetite suppression
- UV protection (melanin)
- Libido enhancement
Tadalafil reported benefits
- Erectile function improvement
- Cardiovascular health (vasodilation)
- Prostate health (BPH)
- Improved exercise capacity
- Nitric oxide support
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Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.