Comparison
Cagrilintide vs. Melanotan II
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Metabolic
Research other
CAS no.
1415456-99-3
121062-08-6
Molecular weight
4253.7 g/mol
1024.18 g/mol
Half-life
168 h
1 h
Sequence
KCNTATCATQRLANFLVRSSNNLGPVLPPTNVGSNTYAc-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH2Mechanism of action
Cagrilintide
Cagrilintide binds amylin receptors (AMY1, AMY3, formed by the calcitonin receptor plus RAMP proteins). Activation delays gastric emptying, inhibits postprandial glucagon secretion and modulates central satiety signalling via area postrema neurons. An acyl modification enables albumin binding and thereby weekly dosing.
Melanotan II
Melanotan II binds non-selectively to all five melanocortin-receptor subtypes (MC1R-MC5R). Via MC1R in melanocytes, eumelanin synthesis is stimulated (pigmenting effect). Via MC4R and MC3R in the CNS, appetite, sexual function and blood pressure are modulated. The cyclic structure and D-amino acids increase stability compared to natural α-MSH.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human trial
Studies
4
5
of which in humans
3
5
Effects recorded
3
4
Open conflicts
0
0
Documented adverse events
1
3