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Australian health regulators have issued an urgent warning about products called melanotan II that are being sold for tanning. The warning says these are unapproved, potentially unsafe injections or creams marketed to make skin darker, and people have been advised not to use them. Doctors are being alerted to watch for patients who might be using these products and experiencing side effects. Melanotan II is a lab-made peptide (a small protein-like molecule) that acts like a natural chemical in the body that can increase pigment production in the skin. In simple terms, it tells pigment-producing cells to make more color, which can darken the skin. It is not an approved medicine for tanning in Australia, and the products sold online or in some shops are not regulated or tested the way approved drugs are. The research and evidence behind these products is thin and mostly not from well-done human trials. Most of what regulators and doctors rely on comes from case reports, small uncontrolled studies, and safety signals—people showing up with unexpected side effects. Reported effects include nausea, flushing, increased blood pressure, changes in skin moles, and other systemic symptoms. There are also concerns that unregulated products may be contaminated or have incorrect doses, so the actual risks are uncertain and can vary a lot between batches. This matters because people looking for a quick or cheaper way to tan may be exposing themselves to real health risks. Anyone considering these products should know they’re bypassing normal safety checks, so side effects could be serious and unpredictable. Doctors, pharmacists, and consumers should be aware that using melanotan II is not a safe alternative to sun exposure or medical advice about skin health. It’s particularly important for people with lots of moles, a history of skin cancer, or high blood pressure to avoid these products unless a doctor says otherwise. There are important caveats. Because these products are unapproved, their quality, ingredients, and doses aren’t guaranteed. They can interact with other medications or worsen medical conditions. Long-term effects are not well studied, and there have been reports of changes to skin moles that could complicate skin cancer detection. Regulatory agencies in many countries advise against use and may seize illegal supplies. If someone has used melanotan II and feels unwell, or notices new or changing moles, they should seek medical advice promptly. Bottom line: Melanotan II tanning products are unapproved and potentially risky—don’t use them, and talk to a doctor if you have already tried them or are thinking about it.
Source: Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP)