People in Galway have been reminded that the so-called self-tanning aid Melanotan is unsafe and may cause serious, long-term health problems.
The product, also referred to as Melanotan 2 or MT2, is commonly sold as an injectable powder or in the form of drops and nasal sprays.
Serious side effects of taking Melanotan include new moles, darkening of existing moles and freckles, potential loss of vision, muscle tremors, stroke and anaphylaxis.
The Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) is concerned that products containing Melanotan 2 are increasingly being targeted towards young people by using bright colours, flavours, and branding.
They noted a marked increase in activity on social media illegally advertising the sale and promotion of such products, removing over 500 social media or e-commerce listings relate to melanotan between July 2022 and June 2023.
The HPRA said that it will continue to take action against individuals using social media and e-commerce to advertise and supply of products containint Melanotan 2, including the removal of content and accounts, and prosecution if there is significant risk to public health.
According to Grainne Power, Director of Compliance with the HPRA, this substance continues to be advertised for cosmetic purposes online despite known side effects.
“A substance like Melanotan 2 poses a threat to someone’s health. There is no safety data to support its use, with no guarantees as to its quality, safety or effectiveness,” said Ms Power.
