Afamelanotide
Scenesse (afamelanotide) is a prescription medication used to increase pain-free light exposure in patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria, a rare genetic disorder that causes extreme photosensitivity. It is administered as a subcutaneous implant and works by stimulating melanin production in the skin to provide photoprotection.
Scenesse is an implant medication used to protect patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria from painful light sensitivity by promoting skin melanin production.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 2262255
- Generic
- Scenesse
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- 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.
Scenesse is indicated for increasing pain-free light exposure in adults with erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a rare condition causing severe photosensitivity that leads to painful reactions upon light exposure.
Scenesse contains afamelanotide, a synthetic analogue of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It stimulates melanocytes to produce melanin, the pigment that provides natural photoprotection against ultraviolet and visible light.
Scenesse is administered as a subcutaneous implant by a healthcare professional. Patients should continue photoprotective measures (clothing, sunscreen) even while on treatment. Common side effects may include implant site reactions, headache, and nausea. Patients should be monitored for signs of excessive pigmentation changes.
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 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy