PT-141 (Bremelanotide)
aka Vyleesi · bremelanotide
A melanocortin receptor agonist approved for hypoactive sexual desire disorder in premenopausal women — a rare case of a 'lifestyle' peptide clearing full FDA review.
Mechanism of action
Activates MC4R (and MC1R/MC3R) in the central nervous system, increasing dopaminergic signaling in sexual-desire pathways rather than acting on vascular smooth muscle like PDE5 inhibitors.
Doses used in published studies
1.75 mg subcutaneously as needed, no more than once per 24 hours and 8 times monthly.
These figures describe what researchers administered under supervision. They are reported for accuracy and are not a protocol, recommendation, or substitute for clinical guidance.
Reported benefits
- Statistically significant improvement in desire and distress scores in RECONNECT trials
- On-demand rather than daily dosing
Risks & unknowns
- Nausea in ~40% of users
- Transient blood-pressure increase and heart-rate reduction
- Focal hyperpigmentation with repeated use
Legal & regulatory status
FDA-approved 2019 as Vyleesi. Prescription-only; grey-market 'PT-141' vials are unapproved products.
Check status in your state or country →Key studies
- Bremelanotide for Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (RECONNECT)
Obstetrics & Gynecology · 2019