PT-141

Bremelanotide — Melanocortin Receptor Agonist

Half-life: ~2.7 hours

BremelanotideVyleesiMelanotan II metabolite

Research Profile

Research Depth

Potency

Half-Life Score

Selectivity

Stability

Relative research assessments — educational reference only.

Target Receptors

MC1RMC3RMC4RMC5R

Critical Research Warning

FDA-approved medication (Vyleesi). Can cause transient increases in blood pressure. Not to be used more than 8 times per month. Contraindicated in uncontrolled hypertension.

PeptidePlaza Entry #010

"A cyclic heptapeptide melanocortin receptor agonist and active metabolite of Melanotan II. Unlike peripheral vasodilators, PT-141 acts centrally via the CNS to modulate arousal and food intake pathways."

Full Description

PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is a cyclic heptapeptide and metabolite of Melanotan II, acting as a non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist (MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R). Uniquely, it acts via the CNS rather than peripheral vasodilation — specifically through MC4R in the hypothalamus and limbic system to mediate arousal pathways. FDA-approved (2019) as Vyleesi for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women. Also studied for its role in appetite suppression via MC3R/MC4R, and tanning via MC1R.

Mechanism of Action

Non-selective MC receptor agonism. MC4R activation in hypothalamus mediates arousal and appetite suppression; MC1R mediates melanogenesis; MC3R modulates energy balance and feeding behavior.

Reported Benefits

• FDA-approved for hypoactive sexual desire disorder in women
• CNS-mediated arousal pathway independent of vascular mechanisms
• Appetite suppression effects via MC4R activation

Potential Side Effects

• Nausea (reported in ~40% of patients in trials)
• Flushing and injection site reactions
• Transient increase in blood pressure

Frequently Asked Questions

How does PT-141 work differently from other compounds?▼

Unlike peripheral vasodilators that work via blood flow, PT-141 acts directly on the central nervous system through melanocortin receptors in the hypothalamus — the part of the brain that regulates arousal and desire. It does not require visual or physical stimulation to be effective.

What is the FDA status of PT-141?▼

PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is FDA-approved under the brand name Vyleesi for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women. It is administered as a subcutaneous injection 45 minutes before anticipated activity.

For Research Reference Only

Not medical advice. Peptides may be regulated or restricted in your jurisdiction.

References

1.Comprehensive characterization of bremelanotide acetate and its degradants by LC-HRMS/MS and predicting epimerization through computational modelling. PubMed (2026). Yuvaraaj VK, et al.. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42485063/ ↑
2.Should Bremelanotide Be Considered for the Treatment of Sexual Arousal and Desire Disorders in Men?. PubMed (2026). Pfaus JG, et al.. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41960633/ ↑
3.Bremelanotide. PubMed (2006). pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31369224/ ↑
4.Female Syrian hamster analyses of bremelanotide, a US FDA approved drug for the treatment of female hypoactive sexual desire disorder. PubMed (2025). Borland JM, et al.. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39793696/ ↑

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