PT-141
An FDA-approved peptide for sexual function and libido enhancement. PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is a melanocortin receptor agonist FDA-approved for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in women. Unlike PDE5 inhibitors, it works centrally in the brain to increase sexual desire rather than just blood flow. Originally derived from Melanotan II, it activates MC3R and MC4R receptors involved in sexual arousal and behavior.
Compare Prices🧬Key Characteristics
- Type: Synthetic Peptide(7 amino acids)
- Brand Name: Vyleesi(FDA-approved 2019)
- Receptors: MC3R / MC4R(Melanocortin receptors)
- Onset: ~45 minutes(On-demand dosing)
Overview
Core Benefits
Key AdvantagesThese are educational summaries of commonly discussed effects in wellness/regenerative contexts, not guarantees.
PT-141 Results Timeline
ProgressionTimeline is illustrative and non-guaranteed. Outcomes vary and are commonly discussed alongside training, nutrition, sleep, and cycling practices.
How It Works
Melanocortin Agonist — MC3R/MC4R Selective (Sexual Function)Receptor → Central Arousal Pathway → Sexual Desire → Outcomes
MC3R/MC4R (Central Melanocortin Receptors)
PT-141 (Bremelanotide) selectively activates MC3R and MC4R receptors in the brain — the same receptors responsible for Melanotan-2's libido effects, but without significant MC1R activation (minimal tanning effect).
Central MC3R/MC4R → Dopaminergic Sexual Arousal Pathway
Melanocortin receptor activation in the hypothalamus triggers dopamine release in areas involved in sexual arousal and desire. Unlike PDE5 inhibitors (Viagra), which work on blood flow only, PT-141 works on desire and arousal centrally.
Central Sexual Arousal → Desire + Physical Response
Increased sexual desire and arousal through central brain mechanisms. Works in both men and women. FDA-approved for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in women as Vyleesi. Different mechanism than PDE5 inhibitors — addresses desire rather than just physical function.
Increased Desire (45 min onset) + Possible Nausea/Flushing
Increased sexual desire and arousal typically within 45 minutes. Common side effects: nausea (40%+), flushing, headache. These side effects are from melanocortin receptor activation and typically diminish with experience. Effects last several hours.
What Makes This Peptide Different
PT-141 is the only FDA-approved peptide for sexual desire. Derived from Melanotan-2 research, it isolates the MC3R/MC4R sexual function effects while minimizing tanning. Unlike Viagra (blood flow), PT-141 works on brain-based desire and arousal — a fundamentally different mechanism that works in both sexes.
Dosing Protocol
Sexual Health / LibidoEducational reference only. Individual responses vary. Consult healthcare provider before use.
Why This Dosing Protocol
Why as-needed? PT-141 is used for acute episodes, not daily maintenance. The 45-minute onset allows planning ahead.
Why max once per 24 hours / 8x per month? Melanocortin receptor desensitization occurs with frequent use. Limiting frequency preserves efficacy and reduces side effects. Also, PT-141 can transiently increase blood pressure.
Diagrams
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PT-141 Pricing
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10 mg / vial
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Reconstitution calculator
Dilution math and unit conversions. Prefilled using a common vial size for this peptide.
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How to Reconstitute Peptides
Handling
Educational overview on storage, labeling, and traceability considerations for lab environments. Consult primary literature and vendor documentation for specifics.
- Freezer (-20°C): 1+ year ✓
- Refrigerator (2-8°C): 1-3 months ✓
- Room temperature: 2-3 weeks (emergency only)
- MUST refrigerate at 2-8°C
- 4-week maximum shelf life
- NEVER freeze after reconstitution
- Use bacteriostatic water for multi-dose
Storage & Handling Guide
Learn proper storage temperatures, shelf life timelines, reconstitution best practices, and travel tips for lyophilized and reconstituted peptides.
FAQ
What is PT-141 and how does it work?
PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is a synthetic peptide that activates melanocortin receptors (MC3R and MC4R) in the brain. Unlike Viagra or Cialis which increase blood flow, PT-141 works centrally to increase sexual desire and arousal. It was derived from Melanotan II and is FDA-approved under the brand name Vyleesi for treating hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women.
How is PT-141 different from Viagra?
Viagra (sildenafil) and similar PDE5 inhibitors work by increasing blood flow to enhance physical response. PT-141 works in the brain on melanocortin receptors to increase sexual desire itself. This makes PT-141 effective for people whose issue is low libido rather than physical arousal problems. PT-141 can work for both men and women, while Viagra is only approved for men.
What are the side effects of PT-141?
The most common side effect is nausea, which affects about 40% of users. Other side effects include flushing, headache, and injection site reactions. PT-141 can cause transient increases in blood pressure, so it's not recommended for people with uncontrolled hypertension or cardiovascular disease. The FDA recommends no more than 8 doses per month.
How long does PT-141 take to work?
PT-141 is typically administered about 45 minutes before anticipated sexual activity. Effects can last for several hours. Unlike daily medications, it's used on an as-needed basis. Most users report effects beginning within 30-60 minutes of injection, with peak effects occurring around 1-2 hours.
Is PT-141 FDA approved?
Yes, PT-141 (as Vyleesi/bremelanotide) received FDA approval in June 2019 for treating hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women. It's the first FDA-approved treatment that targets brain pathways for sexual desire. It's administered as a subcutaneous injection via an autoinjector pen.
How long does reconstituted peptide last?
Once mixed with bacteriostatic water, peptides remain stable for up to 4 weeks when refrigerated at 2-8°C (36-46°F). Unopened powder can last 1+ year in the freezer. Get our complete Storage & Travel Guide.
Is this peptide legal to purchase?
Peptides sold "for research purposes only" are legal to purchase in the US, but are not FDA-approved for human use outside of specific medical applications. Always consult a healthcare provider before use.
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Scientific Sources
The following peer-reviewed studies and official resources provide additional scientific context for this peptide:
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