News: Potentially dangerous, injectable tanning drug being used in B.C.

‘Tanned, fit and turned on’ may sound like the tagline for Jersey Shore, but it’s actually something much worse (and I thought that was impossible): A sales pitch for an injectable drug that promises a year-round tan.

It’s a pitch that, sadly, seems to be working’at least in B.C., where dermatologists say the drug is being used, despite not being approved by Health Canada.

Melanotan II (aka the ‘Barbie Drug’) may sound like an ideal workaround for those who want a permanent tan without the harmful effects of tanning beds, but it could have the same negative consequences.

Research shows that some users’ moles have become more atypical looking, while others have developed clusters of new moles, Dr. Jason Rivers told CTV. “It is possible that people who are prone to skin cancer may be harmed by these products, not helped.”

The Canadian Cancer Society also warns against injectable tanning products on their website.

‘Oral tanning products (also known as tanning pills) and injectable tanning products are considered to be drugs. Health Canada has not approved the use of any of these products for tanning purposes. Until they have been reviewed and experts believe they are safe, these products should be avoided.’

The health warnings and possibility of negative effects doesn’t seem to be as interesting to users as the ‘positive’ ones though, which some users say have included a decrease in appetite and in increase in erections in men.

Being skinny and tanned with a great sex life? Tempting. Injecting a drug that carries a potential skin cancer risk? Not so much.

What do you think? Have you tried, or would you try, oral or injectable tanning products?

-Katharine Watts, Associate Web Editor

Related:
‘ 10 ways to cut your cancer risk
‘ Let’s outlaw tanning beds for teens
‘ Staff tested: The best self-tanners