At a glance
- Class
- MC4R agonist
- Receptor targets
- MC4R
- Length
- 8 amino acids (cyclic)
- Molecular mass
- ≈ 1.12 kDa
- Origin
- Synthetic
- Research area
- Melanocortin receptors
- Also known as
- RM-493
What Setmelanotide is
MC4R sits in the hypothalamic pathway downstream of leptin and POMC, which is why setmelanotide was developed for genetic defects in that pathway.
PT-141 also acts at MC4R, but it was derived from melanotan II and developed for a different purpose. Setmelanotide is a separate peptide with its own receptor profile and has marketing authorisations in the UK, EU and US.
What the research literature studies
- MC4R signalling and receptor-selectivity assays
- Hypothalamic melanocortin pathways in animal models
- Cyclic peptide structure and disulfide chemistry
Evidence rating: 5/5
Approved drug, phase 3 trials. Approved medicine backed by phase 3 trials in rare genetic conditions. See our methodology for how levels are assigned.
- Approvals depend on a confirmed genetic diagnosis and do not extend to other forms of obesity.
- The evidence applies to the branded medicine in specific populations, not to research material.
Regulatory status
Setmelanotide is authorised by the MHRA, EMA and FDA for specific genetically defined conditions, and the indications differ by region. Research-grade material is not that medicine and must not be used in people or animals.
Reviewed November 2026.
Setmelanotide at Nordapep: sizes and price per mg
Every size, its price and the cost per milligram, so you can choose the best-value vial for your protocol.
Not currently listed at Nordapep.
Compare Setmelanotide
Setmelanotide FAQ
How is setmelanotide different from PT-141?
Both activate MC4R. PT-141 derives from melanotan II and is FDA-approved for one indication. Setmelanotide is a separate peptide approved in several regions for genetic conditions. See the comparison page.
Where can I buy Setmelanotide for research?
Nordapep does not currently list Setmelanotide. You can ask Nordapep about availability, or compare related compounds that are in stock.
Is Setmelanotide approved?
Setmelanotide is authorised by the MHRA, EMA and FDA for specific genetically defined conditions, and the indications differ by region. Research-grade material is not that medicine and must not be used in people or animals.
Key terms for Setmelanotide
Further reading
Cite this page
peptide.wiki. (2026). Setmelanotide: research peptide profile. peptide.wiki. https://www.peptide.wiki/peptides/setmelanotide