What is Melanotan II, the drug that consumers are urged to avoid? Nasal tanners left me suffocating in hospital' Stop Taking Melanotan II Dermatologist Breaks It Down I was minutes from death after taking 'Barbie drug' everyone needs to be warned Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration is urging consumers to not use tanning products containing a synthetic peptide called 'Melanotan'. The drug can cause serious side affects, such a kidney failure, chest pains, acne,