Afamelanotide [Melanotan-1] in solar urticaria with α-MSH

[RIURAO]

Something we know (or we should know):

Quote from]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20969564

Background Solar urticaria is a rare photosensitivity disorder demonstrating a range of action spectra, which can inflict very large impact on life quality despite available treatments. Melanin broadly reduces skin penetration by ultraviolet-visible wavelengths, thus increased melanisation may protect in solar urticaria. Objectives To quantitatively examine for impact of the potent ?-melanocyte stimulating hormone analogue afamelanotide [melanotan-1] ([Nle(4) -D-Phe(7) ]-?-MSH, SCENESSE®) on the solar urticaria response and skin melanisation. Methods Five solar urticaria patients received a single-dose of 16mg subcutaneous afamelanotide [melanotan-1] implant in wintertime. Melanin density was assessed spectrophotometrically from 0-60 days (d). Detailed monochromated light testing to geometric dose series (increment ?2) of wavelengths 300-600nm was performed at 0, 30 and 60d, with assessment of wheal and flare area and minimum urticarial dose (MUD). Data were analysed by repeated measures ANOVA. Results Mean melanin density increased by 7d, peaked at 15d and remained elevated at 60d (p=0.03, 0.01, 0.02 vs baseline, respectively). Baseline phototesting revealed action spectra of 320-400nm (n=1), 320-500nm (n=2), 300-600nm (n=1) and 370-500nm (n=1), and on afamelanotide [melanotan-1] mean rises in MUD of 1-12 and 1-3 dose increments were seen at the individual wavelengths tested, at 30 and 60d, respectively. Significant fall in wheal area occurred across responding wavelengths from 300-600nm at 60 days post-implant (p=0.049 vs baseline), accompanied by >2-fold overall increase in MUD (p=0.058 vs baseline). Conclusion Melanisation following afamelanotide [Melanotan-1] is accompanied by reduction in solar urticaria response across a broad spectrum of wavelengths. Further study is warranted to assess clinical benefit in under ambient conditions in summertime.

[briannagodess]

Solar urticaria is a rare condition in which exposure to UV light, sometimes even visible light, leads to hives in that certain person with the condition. The trials for using Melanotan for urticaria has started way back in September 2008. And I think Melanotan has a place in this field. Patients suffering from solar urticaria experience a great deal of stress and problem. Available treatments for it may not be enough or may be even limited. Melanotan increased these patients' melanin and decreased their sensitivity to UV light. I think just more studies are needed to prove Melanotan's effectiveness and safety in the long run.