PT-141: what the research shows
An approved medicine that works in the brain to increase sexual desire.
Also known as Bremelanotide, Vyleesi
At a glance
Approved in the US (Vyleesi, 2019) for low sexual desire in premenopausal women.
What is PT-141?
Bremelanotide (PT-141) is a peptide closely related to Melanotan II. It was developed after researchers noticed effects on arousal in tanning studies.
How does PT-141 work?
It switches on melanocortin receptors in the brain that are involved in desire. It doesn’t work on blood flow the way Viagra does.
What does the research show?
- In two trials of 1,267 women, bremelanotide modestly increased desire scores and reduced distress about low desire, compared with placebo.
Known risks and side effects
- Nausea, flushing and headache were common (10% or more of women in both trials).
- It can cause a temporary rise in blood pressure after each dose.
Is PT-141 approved?
A medicines regulator, such as the FDA in the US or the EMA in Europe, has approved it for specific uses.
Approved in the US (Vyleesi, 2019) for low sexual desire in premenopausal women.
From the community
Watch: PT-141 and related science
Start with the compound discussion, then use the background lesson to understand its biology. Each card explains its connection. Recordings may predate later findings or regulatory changes.
Rena Malik, M.D.
Bremelanotide (PT-141) and sexual desire
A clinician explains bremelanotide and sexual-health research. Approved indications and investigational uses should be distinguished.
Rena Malik, MD · urologist
Discusses the compound
Discusses PT-141 or its clinical context. Read the original studies linked here for the exact formulation, population and outcomes.
National Institute of Mental Health
Clinical research: risks and benefits
Why an experimental treatment can involve uncertainty even when its scientific rationale sounds promising.
NIMH · US National Institutes of Health
Research skills
Helps you judge the study design or uncertainty in PT-141 research; it is not a trial of the compound.
National Institute of Mental Health
Different types of clinical research
An introduction to the different questions and designs used in studies involving people.
NIMH · US National Institutes of Health
Research skills
Helps you judge the study design or uncertainty in PT-141 research; it is not a trial of the compound.
Sources and references
- Bremelanotide for the Treatment of Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder: Two Randomized Phase 3 TrialsKingsberg et al. · Obstetrics & Gynecology · 2019
VETUD Learn explains published research in plain language. It is general information, not medical advice. Talk to a doctor before starting, stopping or changing any treatment.
In the research shop
Check the catalog for related laboratory research materials. These products are separate from the approved medicines and clinical trial formulations discussed here.
Checking regional availability…
