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Last reviewed: March 2026Sources: PubMed, FDA, WADA Prohibited List

Evidence graded using the PeptideScholar A-D system

Bremelanotide (PT-141)

AFDA Approved

Melanocortin receptor agonist · 7 amino acids · Brand: Vyleesi

FDA ApprovedPrescription Required

Bremelanotide is a cyclic heptapeptide melanocortin receptor agonist approved by the FDA as Vyleesi for treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women.

Mechanism of Action

Activates melanocortin-4 receptors (MC4R) in the central nervous system, modulating pathways involved in sexual desire and arousal. Acts centrally rather than peripherally.

Benefits

  • FDA-approved treatment for HSDD in premenopausal women
  • Clinically significant increase in sexual desire
  • Works through central nervous system mechanisms
  • On-demand dosing (not daily)
Not Medical Advice — Research-Reported Information Only

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

Bremelanotide (PT-141) — Dosing in Published Research

Reported Routes: Subcutaneous injection
FDA-approved dose: 1.75 mg SC at least 45 minutes before anticipated sexual activity. Maximum one dose per 24 hours, no more than 8 doses per month.

The dosing information above is sourced from published research literature and clinical trials. These are not recommendations. Individual responses vary. Always consult a healthcare provider before considering any peptide-based therapy.

Side Effects

  • Nausea (most common, ~40%)
  • Flushing
  • Headache
  • Transient blood pressure increase
  • Injection site reactions
  • Skin hyperpigmentation with repeated use

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Research & Evidence

RCTObstetrics & Gynecology, 2019

Efficacy and Safety of Bremelanotide for HSDD (RECONNECT)

Bremelanotide significantly improved sexual desire and reduced distress vs placebo in the RECONNECT phase 3 trials

PMID: 31433918
ReviewExpert Opinion on Investigational Drugs, 2016

Bremelanotide for female sexual dysfunctions

Review of clinical development showing consistent efficacy in HSDD across multiple phase 2/3 trials

PMID: 27106030

Compare Bremelanotide (PT-141) With

Bremelanotide (PT-141) vs Melanotan II

References

  1. 1. Efficacy and Safety of Bremelanotide for HSDD (RECONNECT). Obstetrics & Gynecology, 2019. “Bremelanotide significantly improved sexual desire and reduced distress vs placebo in the RECONNECT phase 3 trials” [PMID: 31433918]
  2. 2. Bremelanotide for female sexual dysfunctions. Expert Opinion on Investigational Drugs, 2016. “Review of clinical development showing consistent efficacy in HSDD across multiple phase 2/3 trials” [PMID: 27106030]

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations.

Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or modifying any treatment. Do not disregard professional medical advice based on information found on this site.

No claims of therapeutic efficacy are made for substances that are not FDA-approved for the discussed indications. Research citations reflect published findings and do not imply endorsement.

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