Bremelanotide
Also known as: PT-141, Vylessi (brand name)
A melanocortin receptor agonist FDA-approved for hypoactive sexual desire disorder in premenopausal women; works centrally to enhance sexual motivation and arousal.
Research Status
FDA-approved
For research purposes only. Not approved for human use. Not medical advice.
Research Areas
Side Effects
Occurs in approximately 40% of users, typically mild and transient. Usually resolves within 30 minutes to 1 hour. Taking the injection with food may reduce incidence. Antiemetics (e.g., ginger, ondansetron) may be considered if severe.
Reported in 20–30% of users. Characterized by warmth and redness in the face and neck. Self-resolving and typically lasts 15–30 minutes. Not medically concerning but may be socially noticeable.
Occurs in approximately 5–10% of users. Usually mild and resolves within 1–2 hours. Standard analgesics (acetaminophen, ibuprofen) may be used if needed.
Mild erythema, bruising, or discomfort at the injection site. Minimize by rotating sites, using proper injection technique, and allowing the solution to reach room temperature before injection.
Melanocortin agonists can stimulate melanin production. Rare but documented in clinical trials. Monitor existing moles and report any changes to a dermatologist. Use sunscreen (SPF 30+) during and after treatment.
Transient increases in systolic and diastolic blood pressure have been reported, typically mild and resolving within 1–2 hours. Contraindicated in women with uncontrolled hypertension. Monitor blood pressure before and after injection if history of hypertension.
Reported in a small percentage of users. Sit or lie down if experienced. Ensure adequate hydration before injection.
Melanocortin agonists can affect sexual function in partners exposed to the peptide. Not applicable to the female user but relevant for household safety and storage.
Dosing Reference
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose range | 1.75 mg |
| Frequency | As needed, 45 minutes before sexual activity |
| Timing | 45 minutes prior to anticipated sexual activity |
| Route | Subcutaneous |
FDA-approved dosage is 1.75 mg SC injection. Do not use more than once per 24 hours. For research purposes only.
Research disclaimer
Figures drawn from published research literature and community logs. Not clinical recommendations. Consult a qualified professional. Research use only.
Reconstitution Guide
Do not use saline or bacteriostatic saline — use only bacteriostatic water for reconstitution
Do not shake the vial vigorously; gentle swirling prevents peptide degradation
Discard immediately if the solution appears cloudy, discolored, or contains visible particles
Use within 30 days of reconstitution when stored at 2–8°C
Do not freeze the reconstituted solution; freezing may denature the peptide
Use the PeptideVolt reconstitution calculator for your exact concentration
Molecular and Pharmacological Data
| Molecular weight | 1025.2 g/mol |
| Half-life | Approximately 1–2 hours (plasma); effects persist 24–48 hours due to central nervous system retention |
| Sequence | Ac-Nle-c[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH2 |
Bremelanotide is a melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) agonist that acts centrally in the hypothalamus to enhance sexual motivation and arousal in women. By activating MC4R signaling pathways involved in sexual desire, it increases genital sensation and responsiveness without affecting systemic hormone levels. This non-hormonal mechanism makes it suitable for premenopausal women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder.
Melanocortin-4 Receptor (MC4R) Signaling
Bremelanotide binds to and activates MC4R in the hypothalamus, triggering downstream cAMP signaling that enhances sexual motivation and arousal centers in the brain.
Pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) Neuron Activation
MC4R activation stimulates POMC neurons, which modulate dopaminergic and other neurotransmitter systems involved in sexual desire and reward processing.
Central Nervous System Sexual Arousal Circuits
Activation of these pathways increases blood flow to genital tissues and enhances sensory perception and sexual satisfaction without direct hormonal effects.
- Bremelanotide is a cyclic heptapeptide that crosses the blood-brain barrier to act on central melanocortin receptors
- MC4R agonism increases sexual desire and arousal without altering systemic estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone levels
- The peptide was originally developed from α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) research
- Efficacy is independent of menopausal status, hormonal contraceptive use, or baseline hormone levels
- Central mechanism allows for on-demand dosing 45 minutes before sexual activity
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View all peptidesResearch Use Only. All content on this page is provided for informational and educational purposes related to scientific research. Bremelanotide is not approved for human use by the FDA or any equivalent regulatory body. This is not medical advice. Do not use any substance discussed here for therapeutic, diagnostic, or preventative purposes. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. The Peptide Volt does not endorse the use of any research chemicals. 18+ only.