An FDA-approved melanocortin agonist for hypoactive sexual desire disorder with central nervous system mechanism.
PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) that was developed from Melanotan II. It was approved by the FDA in 2019 as Vyleesi for the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women — the first and only centrally-acting pharmacological treatment for female sexual dysfunction. Unlike PDE5 inhibitors (sildenafil, tadalafil) which work peripherally by increasing genital blood flow, PT-141 acts centrally through melanocortin receptors in the hypothalamus and limbic system, directly activating the neural circuits responsible for sexual desire and arousal. This central mechanism makes it effective for both men and women and in cases where PDE5 inhibitors have failed, as it addresses the motivational/desire component of sexual function rather than the vascular component.
C50H68N14O10
1025.18 Da
~2.7 hours
Subcutaneous injection, Intranasal (original formulation)
1–2 mg
As needed (45–60 min before activity)
“An FDA-approved melanocortin agonist for hypoactive sexual desire disorder with central nervous system mechanism.”
PT-141 activates melanocortin receptors MC3R and MC4R in the hypothalamus and limbic system. MC4R activation in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus is particularly important for sexual function; it triggers the release of dopamine in the mesolimbic system (the brain’s reward pathway), activating neural circuits associated with sexual motivation and arousal. MC3R activation in the arcuate nucleus modulates energy homeostasis and may contribute to appetite suppression. Unlike Melanotan II, PT-141 has minimal MC1R activity (responsible for skin tanning), making it more selective for sexual function. The peptide also activates oxytocin neurons in the hypothalamus, contributing to its pro-social and intimacy-enhancing effects. PT-141 does not affect blood pressure through the same mechanism as PDE5 inhibitors, though transient blood pressure increases have been observed.
1–2 mg
As needed (45–60 min before activity)
As needed
Subcutaneous injection
Administer 45–60 minutes before desired activity. Start with 1 mg to assess tolerance. Nausea is common at higher doses.
Add 2 mL bacteriostatic water to 10 mg vial → 5 mg/mL For 1 mg dose: draw 0.2 mL (20 units on U-100 syringe)
Lyophilized: refrigerate. Reconstituted: refrigerate and use within 30 days.
When sourcing PT-141 for research purposes, the following quality benchmarks should be verified before use.
>98% (verified by HPLC)
Must be provided by supplier
<0.1 EU/mg (prevents bacterial contamination)
Manufactured in cGMP-certified facility
Independent lab verification preferred
Lyophilized: refrigerate. Reconstituted: refrigerate and use within 30 days.
The statements made within this website have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. The products and information provided are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This website is intended for educational and research purposes only. Many peptides described on this site are not approved by the FDA for human therapeutic use and are classified as research chemicals. Nothing on this site constitutes medical advice.
FDA-approved as Vyleesi for HSDD in premenopausal women
Demonstrated efficacy in men with ED unresponsive to PDE5 inhibitors
Phase III trials showed significant improvement in desire and arousal
Multiple randomized controlled trials with high confidence in efficacy and safety data.
Peptides commonly used alongside PT-141 for synergistic effects.
The “bonding hormone” with roles in social connection, stress reduction, sexual function, and gut motility.
Category
Hormone & GH
Status
Dose
1–2 mg
Frequency
As needed (45–60 min before activity)
Cycle
As needed
Peptides
Protocols
Other Pages
Contact Us Today!
© 2026 Best Health IQ. All rights reserved.
FDA Disclaimer: The statements made within this website have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. The products and information provided are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This website is intended for educational and research purposes only. Many compounds described on this site are not approved by the FDA for human therapeutic use. Some are available only as compounded preparations or as materials sold for laboratory use, and several are on FDA's Category 2 list for significant safety risks. Nothing on this site constitutes medical advice or a recommendation to use any compound described.
