What Is PT-141?
PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is a cyclic heptapeptide melanocortin receptor agonist derived from Melanotan II — specifically engineered to retain the pro-sexual MC4R activation while eliminating the melanogenic and blood pressure-raising effects of its parent compound. It was approved by the FDA in June 2019 (as Vyleesi) for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women — the first and currently only melanocortin-pathway drug approved for sexual dysfunction.
Central Mechanism of Action
PT-141 works through an entirely different mechanism from phosphodiesterase inhibitors. Rather than acting on penile or vaginal vasculature, it activates MC4R and MC3R receptors in hypothalamic regions governing sexual motivation and arousal. This increases central dopaminergic signaling through melanocortin pathways, creating neurological arousal followed by peripheral physiological responses. This central mechanism means PT-141 can address psychogenic sexual dysfunction that peripherally-acting drugs cannot reach.
Male Applications and Administration
Though approved only for female HSDD, PT-141 has been extensively studied in men with erectile dysfunction — including men who fail to respond to sildenafil — with significant improvements in erectile function documented. It is approved as a subcutaneous injection taken 45 minutes before anticipated sexual activity.
Quick Reference
Member reference tables summarize the compound's research parameters.
Research Indications
Research Protocols
As reported in cited literature and research-community logs (see Research Citations below), not a personal dosing recommendation.
This member section describes parameters reported in the research literature.
Peptide Interactions
This member section summarizes reported compound interactions and evidence limitations.
Reported Research Time Points
This member section summarizes reported research time points.
Safety Notes
Included for harm-reduction awareness only, in the event this compound is encountered outside its labeled research use. Inclusion here does not imply RUO Codes endorses, recommends, or instructs human use.
This member section discusses research safety considerations and uncertainties.
Quality Indicators
Research Citations
- FDA Approval Trial for Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (2019)
Human | 1.75mg subcutaneous | As needed | 24.5% improvement vs 17.2% placebo - Male Erectile Dysfunction Clinical Trial (2017)
Human | 1-20mg intranasal | Single dose | Dose-dependent erectile response - Mechanism of Action Study (2016)
In vitro + Animal | Various doses | Receptor binding assays - Female Sexual Arousal Disorder Trial (2013)
Human | 0.75-1.25mg subcutaneous | Single dose | Improved arousal metrics - Therapeutic Peptides in Aesthetic, Metabolic and Endocrine Conditions: Effects, Safety, Clinical Applications, and Future Perspectives
Renke G, Chinellato L, 2026, Int J Mol Sci - Melanocortin peptide therapeutics: historical milestones, clinical studies and commercialization
Hadley ME, Dorr RT, 2006, Peptides - Melanocortins in the treatment of male and female sexual dysfunction
Shadiack AM, Sharma SD, Earle DC, 2007, Curr Top Med Chem - Intravenous peptides and amino acids for erectile dysfunction: a narrative review of current applications and future directions
Ila V, Pozzi E, Gamage M, 2025, Expert Opin Pharmacother