PT-141
Also known as: PT-141, Bremelanotide
A melanocortin receptor agonist FDA-approved (as Vyleesi) for hypoactive sexual desire disorder in premenopausal women. Acts centrally on the brain rather than the vascular system.
Last updated
Mechanism of Action
PT-141 (bremelanotide) is a cyclic heptapeptide analog of alpha-MSH that activates melanocortin receptors, particularly MC4R, in the central nervous system. Unlike PDE5 inhibitors that work on blood flow, it modulates neural pathways governing sexual desire and arousal. This central mechanism allows it to influence libido directly through hypothalamic signaling.
- Half-life
- Approximately 2-3 hours
- Administration Routes
- subcutaneous
- Research Status
- Research Chemical
Reported Benefits
- Increases sexual desire and arousal via central pathways
- FDA-approved (as Vyleesi) for HSDD in premenopausal women
- Works independently of the vascular system
- Effective in both men and women in research
- On-demand use rather than daily dosing
Potential Side Effects
- Nausea (common, sometimes significant)
- Flushing and headache
- Transient increase in blood pressure
- Darkening of skin or gums with repeated use (melanocortin activity)
Common Dosing
The approved product (Vyleesi) is 1.75 mg subcutaneously on demand, at least 45 minutes before activity, no more than once per 24 hours. Stated as labeled dosing.
The dosing information above is aggregated from research literature and anecdotal community reports for educational purposes only. It is not a recommendation, prescription, or medical advice. Peptides are sold as research chemicals only and are not intended for human use.
Contraindications
- Uncontrolled hypertension or known cardiovascular disease
- Pregnancy
- Concurrent use with certain blood-pressure medications (consult literature)
- View
The Patient Experience of Premenopausal Women Treated with Bremelanotide for Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder: RECONNECT Exit Study Results
2021
- View
Bremelanotide for the Treatment of Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder: Two Randomized Phase 3 Trials
2019
- View
Long-Term Safety and Efficacy of Bremelanotide for Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder
2019
- View
Bremelanotide: First Approval
2019
- View
The neurobiology of bremelanotide for the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder in premenopausal women
2022