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PT-141

FDA Approved

Melanocortin Peptides · Sexual Function

PT-141 (bremelanotide) is a melanocortin receptor agonist FDA-approved for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women.

What is PT-141?

PT-141 (bremelanotide) is a melanocortin receptor agonist FDA-approved for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women. Unlike PDE5 inhibitors (Viagra/Cialis) that work on blood flow, PT-141 acts directly on the nervous system to increase sexual desire and arousal.

Also known as: Bremelanotide

How Does PT-141 Work?

Activates melanocortin-4 receptors (MC4R) in the central nervous system, specifically in brain areas involved in sexual arousal and desire. This central mechanism of action distinguishes it from peripherally-acting drugs and makes it effective for desire-based dysfunction.

What is PT-141 Used For?

  • Hypoactive sexual desire disorder
  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Libido enhancement

Potential Side Effects

  • Nausea (40%)
  • Flushing
  • Headache
  • Injection site reactions
  • Transient blood pressure increase

Contraindications

  • Uncontrolled hypertension
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Pregnancy

FDA Legal Status

United States — FDA

FDA Approved

This peptide requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How is PT-141 different from Viagra?
PT-141 works on the brain's melanocortin receptors to increase sexual desire, while Viagra works on blood vessels to improve erectile function. PT-141 addresses desire/arousal, while PDE5 inhibitors address mechanical function. They work through completely different pathways.
Does PT-141 work for men?
While FDA-approved only for women (HSDD), PT-141 has shown efficacy in men with erectile dysfunction in clinical trials, particularly in men who don't respond to PDE5 inhibitors. Off-label use in men is common in clinical practice.

Quick Facts

Legal Status (USA)
FDA Approved
Evidence Rating
AStrong Evidence (Multiple RCTs)
Class / Subclass
Melanocortin Peptides / Sexual Function
Administration
subcutaneous
Typical Dosage
1.75mg as needed (FDA-approved); 0.5-2mg (compounded)
Half-Life
~2.7 hours
Brand Names
Vyleesi
Year Discovered
2004
Approval Year
2019

Sources

PubMed 16422904NCT02338960

Last updated: 2026-04-01

Sources & references

Primary sources used for the dosing, mechanism, side-effect, and regulatory claims on this page. Verify time-sensitive information (regulatory status, prescribing details) on the source before relying on it for medical decisions. See our disclaimer.

  1. PubMed PMID 16422904 — peer-reviewed primary literature on PT-141.
  2. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02338960 — registered clinical trial; protocol, dosing, and outcome reporting per FDA / NIH standards.
  3. FDA Drugs@FDA database — search for the current FDA-approved label, indications, and prescribing information for PT-141.
  4. FDA Federal Register — official notice record for FDA regulatory actions and Category 1 / 503A bulk-substance updates.