Melanocortin Receptor Agonist

PT-141 (Bremelanotide)

FDA-approved product existsGH axis & hormones
5.4/10

BioHarmony verdict

Neutral

PT-141 (bremelanotide) is the only FDA-approved drug for low sexual desire in premenopausal women (Vyleesi, 2019). Its Phase 3 effect on desire was statistically real but below the clinically meaningful threshold, with no significant rise in satisfying sexual events, per Spielmans 2021.

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What is PT-141 (Bremelanotide)?

PT-141, generic name bremelanotide, is a peptide that raises sexual desire from the brain rather than the bloodstream, and it's the only drug the FDA has approved for that purpose in premenopausal women. It activates melanocortin-4 receptors in the hypothalamus, which lifts dopamine signaling in the brain's reward and sexual-motivation circuits, per Pfaus 2022. That central mechanism is the whole point: it can help when the problem is wanting sex, not the physical ability to have it.

From the BioHarmony report, reviewed 2026-09-08.

Safety watch-outs

  • Severe headache, chest pain, or a home blood-pressure reading at or above 180/110: stop and seek care.
  • New or darkening moles, or pigment changes on the face, gums, or breasts: stop and see a dermatologist.
  • Persistent low mood, blunted pleasure, or loss of motivation after dosing: stop
  • the melanocortin-4 pathway is linked to anhedonia.
  • Known cardiovascular disease or uncontrolled high blood pressure: do not use.

Full risk profile in the BioHarmony report.

Dosing as published

Approved labelVYLEESI prescribing information for acquired, generalized hypoactive sexual desire disorder
PopulationPremenopausal women for whom the approved indication and limitations apply
Dose1.75 mg
RouteSubcutaneous injection in the abdomen or thigh
FrequencyAs needed, at least 45 minutes before anticipated sexual activity; no more than one dose within 24 hours
DurationThe label states that more than 8 doses per month is not recommended and therapy should be discontinued after 8 weeks if symptoms do not improve
PreparationReady-to-use single-dose autoinjector containing 1.75 mg/0.3 mL; no reconstitution.
Source: Dosage and Administration section 2; Dosage Forms and Strengths section 3

More reported protocols

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Members can compare additional reported doses, schedules, and preparation notes.

Educator coverage (3)

Attributed viewpoints, separate from primary research.

Trust & sourcing

US approvalFDA-approved product exists
CompoundingApproved product exists; compounded copies are not FDA approved
Last checked2026-07-13
Next review2026-10-11

FDA-approved bremelanotide is marketed as Vyleesi for acquired, generalized hypoactive sexual desire disorder in premenopausal women; that approval does not establish other promoted uses.

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