PT-141
PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is a revolutionary melanocortin-based peptide FDA-approved under the brand Vyleesi for the treatment of Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD). Unlike traditional PDE5 inhibitors (like Viagra or Cialis) which rely strictly on peripheral vasodilation and blood flow, PT-141 is a neurological aphrodisiac. It directly rewires sexual desire at the central nervous system level, inducing profound arousal and treating psychogenic erectile dysfunction in men and anorgasmia in women completely independent of the cardiovascular system.
Quick Stats
Scientific Data
Mechanism of Action
PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is a synthetic melanocortin receptor agonist that acts on MC4R (melanocortin-4 receptors) in the central nervous system to modulate sexual arousal. Unlike PDE5 inhibitors (Viagra, Cialis) that work peripherally on blood flow, PT-141 works centrally in the brain to enhance desire and arousal.
FDA-approved as Vyleesi for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women, PT-141 is also used off-label for male sexual dysfunction. It was originally derived from Melanotan II but engineered to remove the tanning effects while preserving the sexual function pathway.
Source: FDA Label (Vyleesi)
Background & History
PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is a cyclic heptapeptide derived from alpha-MSH (alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone) developed by Palatin Technologies. Unlike sildenafil and other PDE5 inhibitors that act peripherally, PT-141 acts centrally in the hypothalamus via MC4R (melanocortin-4 receptor) to initiate sexual arousal — making it effective for both men and women. FDA approved in 2019 as Vyleesi for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women — the first centrally acting sexual dysfunction treatment approved for women.
Research Use Cases
- ✓Female hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) — FDA approved (Vyleesi)
- ✓Male erectile dysfunction unresponsive to PDE5 inhibitors
- ✓Situational or psychogenic sexual dysfunction
- ✓Research: central arousal pathway modulation
Dosing Protocol
| Typical Dose | 500-2000 mcg |
| Frequency | As needed (max 1×/24h, max 8×/month) |
| Half-Life | ~2.7 hours |
| Common Vial Sizes | 10 mg |
Dosing Protocols
Low / Sensitivity Test
FDA-Approved Dose
Body-Weight Dosing Reference
Estimated doses extrapolated from the published research range of 500–2000 mcg/day (referenced to 70 kg / 154 lb). These are approximations — consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised guidance.
| Weight | Low Dose | Target Dose | High Dose |
|---|---|---|---|
| 120 lb(54 kg) | 386 mcg | 964 mcg | 1543 mcg |
| 140 lb(63 kg) | 450 mcg | 1125 mcg | 1800 mcg |
| 160 lb(73 kg) | 521 mcg | 1304 mcg | 2086 mcg |
| 180 lb(82 kg) | 586 mcg | 1464 mcg | 2343 mcg |
| 200 lb(91 kg) | 650 mcg | 1625 mcg | 2600 mcg |
| 220 lb(100 kg) | 714 mcg | 1786 mcg | 2857 mcg |
| 250 lb(113 kg) | 807 mcg | 2018 mcg | 3229 mcg |
💉 For exact syringe units based on your vial concentration, use the PT-141 Reconstitution Calculator →
Administration
Expected Timeline
Who Is It For?
Sexual Dysfunction (Female HSDD)
HighFDA-approved (Vyleesi) — the first central-acting sexual dysfunction treatment for women.
Sexual Dysfunction (Male, off-label)
ModerateCentral mechanism differs from PDE5 inhibitors — may benefit non-responders to Viagra/Cialis.
Reconstitution Example
Safety & Considerations
FDA-approved as Vyleesi. May cause nausea, flushing, and headache. Maximum 1 dose per 24 hours, 8 doses per month. Transient blood pressure elevation possible. Not for uncontrolled hypertension.
Regulatory & Legal Status
FDA-approved as Vyleesi® for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women
Not currently on the WADA 2026 Prohibited List. Policies may change — verify before competition.
Prescription Drug
US Compounding: Available via licensed pharmacy Rx
⚠️ This information is for educational purposes only and may not reflect the most current regulatory updates. Always verify with official FDA, WADA, and jurisdiction-specific sources before use.
Interactions & Contraindications
Common side effect: transient nausea and flushing (MC1R-mediated). Causes transient blood pressure increase — contraindicated with cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, or concurrent use of antihypertensives. Do not combine with PDE5 inhibitors (sildenafil, tadalafil) without medical clearance — additive blood pressure reduction risk. Maximum dosing frequency: once per 24 hours.
Synergies & Common Stacks
Kisspeptin modulates GnRH/LH/FSH upstream of testosterone; PT-141 acts on downstream arousal circuitry. Together they address both hormonal and neurological dimensions of sexual function.
Oxytocin enhances emotional bonding and arousal via different receptors; PT-141 initiates desire centrally. May synergize for comprehensive sexual wellness protocols.
PT-141 vs. Melanotan-2
| Attribute | PT-141 | Melanotan-2 |
|---|---|---|
| FDA Status | Approved as Vyleesi® (HSDD) | Research chemical — not FDA approved |
| Mechanism | MC4R agonist (sexual circuits) | MC1R + MC4R agonist (tanning + sexual) |
| Primary Effect | Sexual arousal / desire | Skin tanning + sexual arousal |
| Tanning Effect | Minimal (MC1R activity much lower) | Strong melanin-stimulated tanning |
| Side Effects | Nausea, flushing (self-limiting) | Nausea, erections, pigmentation, moles |
| Dose | 0.5–1.75 mg per dose (SC) | 0.5–1 mg per dose (SC) |
Verdict: PT-141 is the safer, FDA-approved option for sexual health with a well-defined safety profile. Melanotan-2 adds tanning effects but carries greater risk (uncontrolled pigmentation, mole growth). For pure sexual function, PT-141 is the preferred clinical choice.
Featured In Clinical Protocols
Sexual Health & Libido Restoration
Regain robust libido, erectile quality, and central nervous system desire through melanocortin and Kisspeptin receptor targeting.
Perimenopause & Menopause Optimization
Comprehensive stack combining peptides and targeted supplements to restore hormonal signaling, alleviate vasomotor symptoms, combat metabolic slowdown, and restore libido.
Dosing Quick Reference
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly does PT-141 work?▼
What is the PT-141 dose?▼
Can men use PT-141?▼
References
- Diamond LE et al. “"Bremelanotide: a melanocortin agonist for the treatment of female sexual dysfunction".” Expert Opinion on Investigational Drugs (2006). PMID: 16466772
📚 Related Articles
Get PT-141 from our recommended source — independently tested, COA-verified, USP <85> endotoxin compliant. Use code 4SS6SFTUGB at checkout.
Affiliate link · Full review