Dersimelagon
Dersimelagon (MT-7117)
Also known as: MT-7117
An oral selective MC1R agonist, a small-molecule cousin of afamelanotide, that met its Phase 3 endpoint in the light-sensitivity disorder erythropoietic protoporphyria in January 2026.
Overview
Dersimelagon activates the melanocortin-1 receptor to increase protective skin pigmentation without the broader effects of non-selective melanocortin peptides. The INSPIRE Phase 3 (165 patients, 200 mg daily) met its primary endpoint in erythropoietic protoporphyria and X-linked protoporphyria, and the drug holds Fast Track and Orphan designations. It is relevant to readers of melanotan pages as the regulated, selective evolution of that pharmacology.
Mechanism of action
Selective MC1R agonism stimulating eumelanin production in the skin.
Key studies & citations
- Human2026
Tanabe Pharma announces positive topline results for dersimelagon in EPP and XLP
INSPIRE met its primary endpoint.
Tanabe Pharma press release - Human2026
INSPIRE Phase 3 of dersimelagon
165 patients on 200 mg daily.
ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04402489
Frequently asked questions
Is dersimelagon a tanning drug?
No. It is being developed for rare photosensitivity diseases. Like afamelanotide, it is not a cosmetic product.