Melanotan I was created as a possible preventive treatment for different types of skin cancer. The idea was that by artificially stimulating the body's tanning process in individuals who are at high risk for developing skin cancer from sun exposure, it might reduce their chances of getting the disease later in life.
In addition to the advantages of achieving a tan without significant sun exposure and enhancing sexual performance and desire, Melanotan I may also contribute to appetite reduction by targeting a receptor in the brain that suppresses hunger. While the effect isn't overwhelming, most users find it noticeable and appealing. The longevity of the tanning effect after a user stops taking the drug depends on various factors. However, most users will see their tan fade and become less noticeable within four to eight weeks after discontinuing the medication.
For most people, during the initial loading phase with the hormone, a dosage of 0.015 to 0.02 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per injection should suffice. These injections can be administered anywhere from twice daily to as infrequently as once every other day or longer. For the maintenance phase, many individuals find that a dose of around 0.01 milligrams per kilogram of body weight injected every few days is adequate to sustain the effects of the hormone.