Health officials are raising an alarm about the potential hazards associated with an unregulated beauty product that could lead to severe health issues such as stroke, vision loss, and muscle tremors.
The Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) has issued a reminder to the public, emphasizing the unsafe nature of the unregulated substance known as Melanotan 2. This product has the potential to inflict substantial, long-term harm to one’s health.
Primarily marketed as a self-tanning aid, Melanotan 2, also referred to as Melanotan, Melanotan II, or MT2, is commonly available as an injectable powder or in the form of drops and nasal sprays.
Of growing concern to the HPRA is the deliberate targeting of young individuals with products containing Melanotan 2. These items are being adorned with vibrant colors, appealing flavors, and attractive branding to attract this demographic.
The HPRA is taking proactive measures to curb the promotion and distribution of Melanotan 2-containing products through social media and e-commerce platforms. Strategies include the removal of content and accounts and, when warranted by significant public health risks, legal actions will be taken.
Grainne Power, the Director of Compliance at the HPRA, has noted that despite known side effects, Melanotan 2 is still being advertised online for cosmetic use. The HPRA’s primary goal is to dismantle these advertisements, with an emphasis on curbing the supply of Melanotan 2. Raising awareness about the dangers of the product is also of paramount importance.
According to Power, “Melanotan 2 poses a significant health threat. There is no reliable safety data supporting its use, and its quality, safety, and effectiveness are not guaranteed. If online products seem too good to be true, they probably are. Serious potential side effects of Melanotan 2 include the emergence of new moles, darkening of existing moles and freckles, potential loss of vision, muscle tremors, stroke, and anaphylaxis.”
The HPRA emphasizes that Melanotan 2 has not been authorized by any medical regulatory body, including the HPRA, for treating any condition. Despite any presentation, it cannot be classified as a cosmetic product since it is meant to be inhaled or injected, resulting in bodily actions. The HPRA strongly advises those using Melanotan 2 to discontinue its use and consult medical professionals regarding potential health concerns.
Power continues, “Using a product that is meant to be inhaled or injected cannot be categorized as a cosmetic, as it elicits a physiological response. We urge consumers to critically evaluate online content and question the motives of those profiting from the sale and promotion of this substance. Legitimate suppliers of Melanotan 2 are nonexistent, and those engaging in illegal distribution do not prioritize your health or well-being. Using this product needlessly jeopardizes your health.”
The HPRA has observed a significant surge in illicit advertising of Melanotan 2 products on social media. Between July 2022 and June 2023, over 500 social media and e-commerce listings related to Melanotan 2 were removed by the HPRA. This marks a notable escalation from the previous two years, during which less than 500 listings were taken down collectively.
Members of the public are encouraged to report suspicious activities concerning the supply of Melanotan 2 and other health products to the HPRA, either by emailing [email protected] or by calling 01 634 3871 or 01 634 3431. Additional information on the hazards of purchasing medicines online and the dangers of using Melanotan 2 is available on the HPRA’s official website.
For individuals using Melanotan 2, the HPRA’s counsel is unequivocal: cease usage immediately. In cases of suspected adverse effects stemming from Melanotan 2 use, consultation with a medical professional is strongly recommended. Alternatively, individuals can report such effects to the HPRA through their online reporting form.