PT-141 (Bremelanotide)
Also sold as Bremelanotide, Vyleesi.
- Half-life
- 2 h
- Steady state
- ~0 d
- Class
- Libido
- Category
- Peptide
Published population averages. Steady state is the usual five half-life rule of thumb, not a measurement. See peptide half-life, explained.
Overview
PT-141 (Bremelanotide, brand: Vyleesi) is a melanocortin receptor agonist derived from Melanotan II but designed for selective MC4R activation. It is the first and only FDA-approved medication that works through the central nervous system (rather than vascular mechanisms) to treat hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women.
How it works
Activates MC4R receptors in the hypothalamus and limbic system, directly stimulating sexual desire at the neurological level — distinct from PDE5 inhibitors (Viagra) that act on vascular smooth muscle. Increases dopamine signaling in reward circuits associated with sexual motivation. Does not affect melanogenesis (tanning) at therapeutic doses due to reduced MC1R affinity vs MT-II.
Half-life and peak
Subcutaneous half-life approximately 2.7 hours. Onset of sexual desire effects within 45–60 minutes. Peak plasma concentration at 1 hour. Duration of effect 12–24 hours. Administered as-needed, maximum once per 24 hours. Recommended dose: 1.75 mg SC.
What it is studied for
Female hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), male erectile dysfunction, melanocortin-4 receptor pharmacology, central vs peripheral sexual response.
Research status
FDA-approved for premenopausal HSDD (Vyleesi, 2019). Phase 3 RECONNECT trials. Approved by AMAG Pharmaceuticals (now Covis Pharma). Not approved for male ED (Phase 2 data positive). Black box warning for transient blood pressure increase.
Sources
- Bremelanotide — FDA approval info · fda.gov
- RECONNECT trial results — Obstet. Gynecol. · doi.org
- PT-141 — MedlinePlus · medlineplus.gov
- Bremelanotide clinical pharmacokinetics · doi.org
Educational reference only. This page describes what is published about a compound; it is not medical advice, not a recommendation to take anything, and not a dosing guide. Several compounds in this catalog are investigational and are not approved medicines. Talk to a doctor.