What is PT-141?
PT-141 (bremelanotide) is a melanocortin receptor agonist. Unlike vascular treatments, it acts on pathways in the nervous system related to sexual arousal, and is FDA-approved for hypoactive sexual desire disorder in some populations.
Also known as: Bremelanotide
How PT-141 is studied
PT-141 (bremelanotide) is a melanocortin receptor agonist. Rather than acting on blood flow like vascular treatments, it works on nervous-system pathways involved in sexual arousal, and is FDA-approved for hypoactive sexual desire disorder in certain populations.
Commonly researched for
Research status
Important considerations
Prescription medication. Can affect blood pressure; medical supervision advised.
PT-141 — frequently asked questions
It is FDA-approved (as bremelanotide) for premenopausal women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder. Other uses are off-label.
It acts centrally on arousal pathways via melanocortin receptors rather than on blood flow, so its mechanism differs from PDE5 inhibitors.
It can affect blood pressure and cause nausea or flushing in studies. It is a prescription medication requiring medical supervision.