PT-141
Also known as: Bremelanotide, Vyleesi
PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is a melanocortin receptor agonist that works on the central nervous system to enhance sexual arousal and desire. It is FDA-approved for treating hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women.
Research Status
FDA-approved for female hypoactive sexual desire disorder (Vyleesi)
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 30-60 minutes. Taking PT-141 with food or on a partially full stomach may reduce incidence. Antiemetics (e.g., ginger, ondansetron) can be used if severe.
Redness and warmth in the face and neck occur in 30-50% of users. Usually mild, self-resolving within 1-2 hours. Related to MC4R activation and increased blood flow. Not medically concerning but may be socially noticeable.
Reported in 5-15% of users. Usually mild and resolves within a few hours. May be related to vascular changes or increased intracranial pressure. Standard analgesics (acetaminophen, ibuprofen) are effective if needed.
Increased melanin production can occur due to MC4R activation on melanocytes. Darkening of existing moles or development of new pigmented lesions has been reported. Dermatological monitoring is recommended, especially in users with a history of melanoma or atypical moles. This effect is reversible upon discontinuation.
Redness, itching, or mild swelling at the injection site can occur. Usually resolves within 24 hours. Proper site rotation and sterile injection technique minimize risk. Ice application can reduce inflammation if needed.
Small increases in systolic and diastolic blood pressure have been observed in clinical trials. More common in users with baseline hypertension. Blood pressure monitoring is recommended, especially in those with cardiovascular risk factors. Contraindicated in uncontrolled hypertension.
Unexpected or unwanted erections may occur, particularly in the hours following injection. This is an expected pharmacological effect but can be socially inconvenient. Timing of injection relative to planned sexual activity can help manage this.
Reported in <5% of users. May be related to blood pressure changes or vasodilation. Avoid driving or operating machinery if dizziness occurs. Usually resolves within 1-2 hours.
Slight increases in heart rate have been observed. Usually mild and transient. Users with cardiac arrhythmias or heart disease should use with caution and medical supervision.
While nausea is common, actual vomiting is rare (<5%). If vomiting occurs, discontinue use and seek medical advice. Dehydration risk if vomiting is severe or repeated.
Dosing Reference
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose range | 1-2 mg |
| Frequency | As needed, 45 minutes before sexual activity |
| Timing | 45-60 minutes before intimacy |
| Route | Subcutaneous, Intranasal |
Works for both men and women. Can cause nausea and flushing initially.
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 26 minutes (plasma half-life); duration of effect 2-3 hours |
| Sequence | Ac-Nle-c[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH2 |
PT-141 (bremelanotide) is a melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) agonist that acts on the central nervous system to enhance sexual arousal and desire in both men and women. By activating MC4R signaling pathways in the hypothalamus and other brain regions involved in sexual function, PT-141 increases dopamine and other neurotransmitters that promote sexual motivation and arousal, independent of hormonal status.
Melanocortin-4 Receptor (MC4R) Signaling
PT-141 binds to and activates MC4R on neurons in the hypothalamus and other brain regions. This activation increases intracellular cAMP levels, leading to enhanced neural signaling related to sexual desire and arousal. MC4R activation is distinct from hormonal pathways and works centrally (in the brain) rather than peripherally.
Dopaminergic Pathway Enhancement
MC4R activation increases dopamine release in brain regions associated with reward, motivation, and sexual behavior (nucleus accumbens, ventral tegmental area). This enhances the motivational and pleasurable aspects of sexual arousal.
Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis Modulation
PT-141 influences hypothalamic neurons that regulate sexual function and arousal, independent of gonadal hormones (testosterone, estrogen). This mechanism allows efficacy in both premenopausal and postmenopausal women, and in men with or without hormonal deficiencies.
- PT-141 works centrally on the brain, not through peripheral vascular or hormonal mechanisms
- Efficacy is independent of estrogen or testosterone levels, making it effective across hormonal states
- Onset of action is 45-60 minutes; peak effect typically occurs 1-2 hours after injection
- The peptide crosses the blood-brain barrier to reach hypothalamic MC4R receptors
- Unlike phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil), PT-141 enhances desire/arousal rather than erectile function alone
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