Abstract: A variety of small, guanidino group-containing molecules capable of acting as MC4-R agonists are provided. The compounds have various structures provided herein. The compounds are useful in treating MC4-R mediated diseases and may be formulated into pharmaceutical formulations and compositions.

Abstract: A variety of small molecule, guanidine-containing molecules capable of acting as MC4-R agonists are provided. The compounds are useful in treating MC4-R mediated diseases when administered to subjects. The compounds have the structure IA, IB, and IC where the values of the variables are defined herein.

Abstract: Compounds having the general structure III are provided: where D is N or C; W is selected from Z1, Z2, and Z3 are independently selected from CR8 and N; and the other variables have the values described herein. Compounds of formula III have useful properties for controlling diseases related to MC4-R action in humans including obesity and type II diabetes.

Abstract: Compounds having he general structure I are provided. X and Y are independently selected from the group consisting of CH2, N, NR9, C═O, C═S, S═O, SO2, S, O, (CR6R7)n, C(═O)—(CR6R7)n, and C(═S)—(CR6R7)n, where n is 1, 2, or 3. W is selected from the group consisting of (formula I) and L is selected from the group consisting of N, O, S═O, SO, C(O), NC(O), NC(S), OC(O), OC(S), C(NR10), C(NOR10), and a covalent bond. Z1, Z2, and Z3 are independently selected from the group consisting of substituted carbon and nitrogen. Compounds of formula I are agonists of the melanocortin-4 receptor (″MC-4r2) and therefore may have useful properties for controlling diseases related to MC-4r action in humans, such as obesity and type II diabetes.

Abstract: Compounds having the general structure 11 are provided: 1