Sexual Health · Endocrine
PT-141 (Bremelanotide)
Also known as: Bremelanotide, Vyleesi
A melanocortin receptor agonist FDA-approved as Vyleesi for hypoactive sexual desire disorder in premenopausal women.
Sign in to add to watchlistEvidence strength
Strength of human clinical evidence — A (strongest) to D (mostly preclinical). This reflects research maturity, not safety or suitability.
Vial Theory provides educational research summaries only. Content is not medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, dosing guidance, or individualized suitability screening. Regulatory status can change over time and varies by jurisdiction.
Key Takeaways
- ›Bremelanotide (PT-141) is FDA-approved as Vyleesi for low sexual desire (HSDD) in premenopausal women.
- ›It acts centrally on brain melanocortin pathways, unlike blood-flow-based ED drugs.
- ›Two Phase 3 trials supported approval; common effects include nausea, flushing, and transient blood-pressure rises.
- ›Off-label use (including in men) is not supported by approval-grade evidence.
- ›It is a prescription medicine. Work with a licensed healthcare professional on any decision.
What It Is
Bremelanotide is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) that acts as an agonist at melanocortin receptors, with relative selectivity for the MC4 receptor. It was developed from earlier melanocortin chemistry that originally targeted skin pigmentation and was repurposed when central effects on sexual behavior were observed in early human studies.
The compound was developed by Palatin Technologies and licensed for the female HSDD indication, eventually receiving FDA approval as Vyleesi in 2019. Its mechanism in sexual response is thought to involve central activation of melanocortin pathways in hypothalamic and limbic circuits rather than peripheral vascular effects, which distinguishes it from PDE5-inhibitor-class agents.
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Disclaimer: This content is for educational and research purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional before making health-related decisions.