Dulaglutide vs Melanotan II
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
Dulaglutide
Dulaglutide (Trulicity) is a once-weekly GLP-1 receptor agonist for type 2 diabetes. Its larger molecular size from fusion with an Fc fragment extends half-life and may reduce some GI side effects.
Full details →Melanotan II
Melanotan II is a synthetic peptide analog of α-MSH with broader receptor activity than Melanotan I. It produces tanning effects and has notable effects on sexual function and appetite suppression.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Dulaglutide | Melanotan II |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | GLP-1 analog fused to a modified human IgG4 Fc fragment, providing extended duration of action. Activates GLP-1 receptors for glucose-dependent insulin secretion and appetite suppression. | Non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist affecting MC1R (tanning), MC3R and MC4R (sexual function and appetite). This broader activity explains its multiple effects beyond tanning. |
| Typical Dosage | Start at 0.75mg once weekly, may increase to 1.5mg, 3mg, or maximum 4.5mg weekly based on glycemic response. | Typical protocols: 0.25-0.5mg daily during loading phase for 1-2 weeks, then 0.5-1mg before UV exposure for maintenance. Start low to assess tolerance. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection once weekly, any time of day, with or without food. Comes in pre-filled single-dose pens. | Subcutaneous injection. Usually combined with UV exposure for tanning effects. Nasal spray formulations exist but have lower bioavailability. |
| Side Effects | Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, decreased appetite. Generally well-tolerated with gradual dose titration. | Nausea (common initially), facial flushing, spontaneous erections, increased libido, appetite suppression, and mole darkening. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
Both Dulaglutide and Melanotan II are commonly used for: