PT-141
PT-141, also known as Bremelanotide, is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide derived from alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) that activates melanocortin receptors, including melanocortin-3 and melanocortin-4 receptors (MC3R/MC4R). Originally developed as a derivative of the tanning peptide Melanotan II, PT-141 represents a novel approach to sexual dysfunction treatment by targeting central nervous system pathways rather than peripheral vascular mechanisms. Through activation of melanocortin-3 and melanocortin-4 receptors (MC3R/MC4R) in the hypothalamus and limbic regions, PT-141 enhances sexual desire and arousal through neurogenic pathways.
This peptide has gained FDA approval as Vyleesi for the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women and demonstrates significant efficacy in clinical studies for both male and female sexual dysfunction. PT-141's unique central mechanism of action, rapid onset of effects, and distinct pharmacological profile distinguish it from traditional sexual dysfunction treatments, making it a valuable therapeutic option for patients unresponsive to conventional therapies.
Overview
PT-141 demonstrates high water solubility and excellent bioavailability via subcutaneous and intranasal administration routes. The peptide exhibits selective receptor binding affinity for melanocortin receptors, with minimal cross-reactivity to other receptor systems. It is metabolized primarily through hepatic pathways and eliminated via renal excretion within 24 hours post-administration.
Chemical structure & Properties
- Molecular Formula: C50H68N14O10
- Molecular Weight: 1025.16 Da
- Sequence: Cyclic heptapeptide: Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-OH
- Half-life: Approximately 2.5 hours (plasma elimination)
- Stability: Stable synthetic peptide with resistance to enzymatic degradation
Mechanism of Action
PT-141 exerts its therapeutic effects through selective activation of melanocortin receptors in the central nervous system:
Areas Investigated in
the Research Literature
Current Clinical Evidence
Safety Profile and Considerations
Regulatory Status and Legal Considerations
Regulatory information current as of 28 August 2026. This is a summary, not legal or medical advice, and status can change.
FDA Status
- Classification: Prescription medication (Vyleesi)
- Approval Status: Approved for HSDD in premenopausal women (June 2019)
- Indication: Treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder
- Regulatory Position: Full FDA approval with established safety and efficacy profile
International Status
- Other Jurisdictions: Regulatory submissions in progress in multiple countries
- Off-Label Use: Permitted under physician supervision for approved indications
Legal Availability
- Commercial Status: FDA approved as Vyleesi for one specific indication. Not approved for any other use.
- Market Presence: Distributed through specialty pharmacies
- Quality Control: Full pharmaceutical manufacturing and quality standards
- Clinical Use: Approved for clinical use under medical supervision
Conclusion
What the evidence supports
PT-141 (bremelanotide) is a melanocortin-receptor agonist that acts on central nervous system pathways involved in sexual desire. It is FDA approved as Vyleesi for hypoactive sexual desire disorder in premenopausal women, supported by controlled clinical trials; uses outside that indication are off-label and are not established by the same evidence. Nothing on this page is an offer to prescribe or supply. This page summarizes the published research and nothing further.
PT-141 SCIENTIFIC
DATA SUMMARY
About this library
This library is published for education. It summarizes published research on compounds studied in this field. Many have no approved medical use, and several cannot lawfully be compounded in the United States. The presence of a page here does not mean Paragon offers that compound. Nothing on these pages is an offer to treat.
This page is general education about a compound studied in this field. Nothing here is medical advice, a recommendation, or an offer to prescribe or supply. A page appearing in this library does not mean Paragon Sports Medicine offers that compound.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. PT-141 (Vyleesi) is FDA-approved for specific indications and requires prescription and medical supervision. Patients should consult with qualified healthcare providers before considering any peptide therapy.
Statements on this page have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Many peptides described here are not FDA approved for the uses discussed, and some cannot lawfully be compounded in the United States. Nothing on this page is medical advice or a recommendation for any individual. Whether any therapy is appropriate depends on your history, your laboratory results, and a clinical evaluation. Individual results vary. This page is published for education. Use of this site does not create a physician-patient relationship.