Melanotan Phototherapy for the Treatment of Vitiligo

[Semin]

Afamelanotide and Narrowband UV-B Phototherapy for the Treatment of Vitiligo
2014

Abstract
Importance* Narrowband UV-B (NB–UV-B) phototherapy is used extensively to treat vitiligo. Afamelanotide, an analogue of ?–melanocyte-stimulating hormone, is known to induce tanning of the skin.
Objective* To evaluate the efficacy and safety of combination therapy for generalized vitiligo consisting of afamelanotide implant and NB–UV-B phototherapy.
Design, Setting, and Participants* This study was performed in 2 academic outpatient dermatology centers and 1 private dermatology practice. We enrolled men and women 18 years or older with Fitzpatrick skin phototypes (SPTs) III to VI and a confirmed diagnosis of nonsegmental vitiligo that involved 15% to 50% of total body surface area. Vitiligo was stable or slowly progressive for 3 months. Patients were randomized to combination therapy (n?=?28) vs NB–UV-B monotherapy (n?=?27). After 1 month of NB–UV-B phototherapy, 16mg of afamelanotide was administered subcutaneously to the combination therapy group monthly for 4 months while NB–UV-B phototherapy continued; the other group continued to receive* NB–UV-B monotherapy.
Interventions* Narrowband UV-B monotherapy vs combined NB–UV-B phototherapy and afamelanotide.
Main Outcomes and Measures* Response on the Vitiligo Area Scoring Index and Vitiligo European Task Force scoring system.
Results* Response in the combination therapy group was superior to that in the NB–UV-B monotherapy group (P? Conclusions and Relevance* A combination of afamelanotide implant and NB–UV-B phototherapy resulted in clinically apparent, statistically significant superior and faster repigmentation compared with NB–UV-B monotherapy. The response was more noticeable in patients with SPTs IV to VI.

Melanotan Clinical Trial

[briannagodess]

Vitiligo is the loss of skin color that causes blotches or patches in patients. It occurs when the cells that produce melanin die. So I think melanotan has a place for treatment in this condition. As we all know, melanotan can darken skin and so vitiligo patients can benefit from its effects. Further research needs to be done, but they have their foot in the right direction. And I know many people will be happy for this treatment.

[stanleyr]

This shows that this can be a potential effective treatment for vitiligo.