PT-141
Also known as: Bremelanotide, Vyleesi (pharmaceutical form)
A melanocortin receptor agonist that acts centrally on hypothalamic pathways to induce sexual arousal. Unlike PDE5 inhibitors, it works through the CNS rather than the vascular system.
Overview
PT-141 (bremelanotide) was discovered serendipitously during Melanotan II research, when researchers noted unexpected sexual arousal as a side effect in human volunteers. Unlike phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (sildenafil, tadalafil) which work peripherally through vascular relaxation, PT-141 acts centrally on melanocortin receptors in the hypothalamus to stimulate sexual desire pathways.
A pharmaceutical formulation (Vyleesi) was approved by the FDA in 2019 for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women, providing clinical validation of its mechanism. Research continues into its applications for male sexual dysfunction and disorders of sexual desire. Its central mechanism of action makes it potentially useful in cases where vascular mechanisms are intact but desire is impaired.
Mechanism of Action
PT-141 activates melanocortin receptors, primarily MC3R and MC4R, in the hypothalamic preoptic area — regions directly involved in sexual motivation and arousal circuitry. This activation increases dopaminergic transmission in limbic reward pathways, enhancing sexual desire through central rather than peripheral mechanisms. It also moderately activates MC1R, causing transient skin flushing.
Research Areas
- ●Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD)
- ●Male erectile dysfunction — central mechanisms
- ●Melanocortin receptor pharmacology (MC3R/MC4R)
- ●Female sexual arousal research
- ●Hypothalamic reward pathway modulation
Storage & Handling
Lyophilized: -20°C. Reconstituted: 2–8°C, 28 days.
Soluble in sterile water
For Research Use Only. This information is provided for educational and research purposes. PT-141 is not approved for human consumption, veterinary use, or clinical application. All research must be conducted in accordance with applicable laws and institutional guidelines.