PT-141

Bremelanotide, also known as PT-141, is a synthetic peptide originally developed from Melanotan II, a tanning peptide. Unlike its predecessor, Bremelanotide does not primarily affect skin pigmentation. Instead, it acts on the melanocortin receptors in the brain, which play a role in regulating sexual behavior, arousal, and desire.The compound gained attention as one of the first drugs designed specifically to address sexual dysfunction through the central nervous system, rather than by targeting blood flow (as seen with PDE5 inhibitors like sildenafil or tadalafil). This makes it effective not only in men with erectile dysfunction, but also in women with low sexual desire (hypoactive sexual desire disorder – HSDD), where blood flow enhancers alone are not sufficient.

How is Bremelanotide Applied?

• Form: Commonly available as a peptide in lyophilized powder vials, reconstituted with bacteriostatic water.
• Administration: Given as a subcutaneous injection, typically in the abdomen or thigh.
• Onset & Duration: Effects are usually felt within 30–60 minutes after injection, lasting up to several hours.
• Medical use: Approved in the United States under the brand name Vyleesi for treating HSDD in premenopausal women.
• In sports/fitness circles: Rarely used for performance — instead, it’s known for libido enhancement and sometimes marketed as a lifestyle peptide.

Key Features

• Increases sexual desire and arousal (works on the brain, not just blood vessels).
• Suitable for both men and women.
• Not dependent on sexual stimulation (can trigger arousal spontaneously).
• Side effects may include nausea, flushing, or increased blood pressure in some users.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea & vomiting → the most frequent, especially after the first injections.
• Flushing (redness, warmth sensation).
• Headaches.
• Transient increase in blood pressure and decrease in heart rate → usually mild but important in people with cardiovascular conditions.
• Skin darkening / pigmentation changes (similar to Melanotan II but less pronounced).

Disadvantages

• Injection-based → requires subcutaneous injections, which is less convenient than oral medications.
• Not as predictable as PDE5 inhibitors → works on libido/arousal but doesn’t guarantee strong erections like sildenafil/tadalafil.
• Short duration → effect window is only a few hours.
• Not for daily use → recommended no more than 8 doses per month (FDA label for Vyleesi), due to cardiovascular risks.

✅ Summary:
Bremelanotide (PT-141) is a melanocortin receptor agonist peptide used to enhance sexual desire and arousal. Unlike traditional ED medications, it acts on the brain’s arousal pathways, making it a novel option for both men and women. It is applied via subcutaneous injection and has been clinically approved as Vyleesi for female sexual dysfunction.