Afamelanotide
Afamelanotide is a synthetic peptide analogue of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) used primarily to increase pain-free light exposure in patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). It works by stimulating melanin production in the skin, which provides photoprotection for patients who experience severe, painful reactions to sunlight exposure.
Afamelanotide is used to help patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria tolerate sunlight exposure by increasing skin melanin production.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- D02BB02
- RxNorm
- 2262250
- Generic
- Afamelanotide
- Class
- atc-d02
- Brands
- Scenesse
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Afamelanotide is indicated for the treatment of erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a rare genetic disorder characterized by extreme photosensitivity causing severe pain and skin reactions upon exposure to visible light and sunlight.
Afamelanotide binds to and activates melanocortin-1 receptors (MC1R) in melanocytes, stimulating the production of eumelanin (dark melanin pigment). This increased melanin provides photoprotection, allowing patients to tolerate greater light exposure without experiencing painful phototoxic reactions.
Afamelanotide is administered as a subcutaneous implant. Patients should be monitored for signs of hyperpigmentation, which is an expected pharmacological effect. Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Pregnancy category is not established; weigh benefits against potential risks.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 29, 2026. · Read our editorial policy