Sexual Health

PT-141 (Bremelanotide)

A melanocortin receptor agonist that directly activates the CNS to increase sexual desire and function.

C50H68N14O10Half-life: 2.7 hoursMolar mass: 1025.20 g/mol

⚠ Research & Educational Use Only. PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is a research chemical documented here for scientific education. All information references peer-reviewed literature and preclinical/clinical study data. Not for human consumption. Not medical advice. Consult a licensed researcher or healthcare professional before any laboratory use.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Amanda Reid, MDWritten by the KnowYourPeptide Research TeamLast updated April 2026
Our editorial standards →
Key Takeaways
  • Increases sexual desire and libido in men and women
  • Effective for erectile dysfunction even when PDE5 inhibitors fail
  • Works via CNS activation — addresses psychological component of sexual dysfunction
  • PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is not FDA-approved for human use. It is a research chemical for scientific study only.

Research At a Glance

  • Increases sexual desire and libido in men and women
  • Effective for erectile dysfunction even when PDE5 inhibitors fail
  • Works via CNS activation — addresses psychological component of sexual dysfunction
  • FDA-approved (Vyleesi) for HSDD in premenopausal women

What is PT-141 (Bremelanotide)?

PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide derived from Melanotan II, developed by Palatin Technologies. Unlike traditional erectile dysfunction drugs that work by increasing blood flow to the genitals, PT-141 works by directly activating melanocortin receptors (MC3R and MC4R) in the central nervous system, specifically in the hypothalamus, to increase sexual motivation and desire. This central mechanism of action makes it effective for both men and women. It received FDA approval in 2019 as Vyleesi for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women — the first non-hormonal treatment for female sexual dysfunction.

Key Research Benefits

Documented effects observed in preclinical and clinical studies on PT-141 (Bremelanotide). See all Sexual Health peptides for comparison.

Increases sexual desire and libido in men and women
Effective for erectile dysfunction even when PDE5 inhibitors fail
Works via CNS activation — addresses psychological component of sexual dysfunction
FDA-approved (Vyleesi) for HSDD in premenopausal women
Effects persist for up to 72 hours
Does not require sexual stimulation to initiate response
Effective for both organic and psychogenic sexual dysfunction

Common Stacks

PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is frequently combined with the following peptides for synergistic effects. Click any peptide to compare profiles before deciding.

Both are melanocortin-based sexual function compounds - PT-141 is the selective successor to Melanotan II for sexual arousal without tanning.

Melanotan II profile

Oxytocin's pro-bonding and anxiety-reducing effects complement PT-141's physical arousal mechanism for a comprehensive intimacy protocol.

Oxytocin profile

Side Effects & Risks

Adverse effects reported in the research literature. All data sourced from preclinical and clinical study reports.

Nausea (most common — affects up to 40% of users)
Flushing and facial redness
Transient increase in blood pressure
Headache
Hyperpigmentation of skin with repeated use
Fatigue after effects subside
Yawning and stretching
Spontaneous erections in men (not always desired)

Dosing Data from the Literature

Doses referenced below are sourced from published preclinical and clinical studies. Use the peptide dose calculator to convert these values to injection volume.

Research Dosing Protocol

Typical research dosing: 0.5–2 mg subcutaneously, 1–2 hours before sexual activity. Start with 0.5 mg to assess tolerance. Maximum recommended dose is 2 mg. Do not use more than once per 72 hours due to prolonged action.

Enter your vial size and target dose to get the exact injection volume.

Administration in Research Settings

Standard reconstitution and administration methodology for laboratory research use.

Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water, administer subcutaneously (abdomen or thigh). Administer 1–2 hours before desired effect. Pre-medicate with an antiemetic (e.g., ondansetron) if nausea is a concern. Lying down after injection can reduce nausea. Avoid high-fat meals before use.

Research Video

Explore Further

Quick Reference

Half-Life
2.7 hours
Molar Mass
1025.20 g/mol
Formula
C50H68N14O10
Legal Status
FDA-approved as Vyleesi for female HSDD. Research peptide form available for laboratory research. Not legal to self-administer research-grade PT-141 as a medical treatment without prescription.
Storage
Lyophilized: refrigerate at 2–8°C. Reconstituted: 2–8°C, use within 30 days. Protect from light.

Research Use Only

This information is for educational research purposes only. This is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional.