Structure · schematic
Peptide chain of 7 amino acids · Melanocortin
Sequence
Ac-Nle-cyclo[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-OH
Schematic representation of the amino acid chain — not a chemical structural formula. Each node represents one amino acid.
Research areas*
* Contexts in which the peptide has been scientifically studied — not assured or recommended effects.
Mechanism of action
- PT-141 (bremelanotide) is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide and an agonist at melanocortin receptors, particularly MC3R and MC4R.
- It is a metabolite of Melanotan II but contains no acetyl group at the N-terminus.
- Unlike peripheral vasodilators (e.g. PDE-5 inhibitors), PT-141 acts primarily centrally via the hypothalamus and other CNS areas involved in regulating sexual desire.
- MC4R activation in the hypothalamus is postulated as the main mechanism of its pro-sexual effect.
Research status
- PT-141 is the only approved melanocortin-receptor agonist for sexual dysfunction.
- The FDA granted approval in 2019 (Vyleesi) for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women.
- This was based on two Phase III studies (RECONNECT), which showed statistically significant improvements on validated scales (FSDS-DAO, FSFI) compared with placebo.
- For men with erectile dysfunction, Phase II data exist; FDA approval for this indication was not sought.
- EMA approval for the EU market does not exist.
Evidence level
Cited studies
Known risks
- 01Nausea: the most common side effect in clinical studies (about 40% of users), dose-limiting in about 13%
- 02Blood pressure increase: transient hypertension described after administration; contraindicated in cardiovascular disease
- 03Hyperpigmentation (melanoderma) described with repeated use in studies
- 04Flushing, headache
- 05Interactions with antihypertensives and other vasoactive substances
- 06Not recommended for people with uncontrolled hypertension or pre-existing cardiovascular disease
Frequently asked questions
What is PT-141?
PT-141 (bremelanotide) is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide and an agonist at melanocortin receptors, particularly MC3R and MC4R.
What type of peptide is PT-141?
PT-141 belongs to the Melanocortin class.
Is PT-141 legal in Germany?
PT-141 is not approved as a medicine in Germany. Obtaining it outside clinical studies is legally problematic.
Where can I buy PT-141?
Peptica sells nothing and names no sources. PT-141 is "not approved" in Germany; obtaining unapproved substances outside clinical studies is illegal and carries quality and safety risks.
Is PT-141 banned in sport (WADA)?
PT-141 is currently not on the WADA Prohibited List.
What are the known risks of PT-141?
Documented risks include: Nausea: the most common side effect in clinical studies (about 40% of users), dose-limiting in about 13%; Blood pressure increase: transient hypertension described after administration; contraindicated in cardiovascular disease. This is not a complete safety assessment and not medical advice — see the risks section for the full list.
How well researched is PT-141?
The evidence is classified as “clinically established”. 2 studies are cited on this page.
What is the molecular weight of PT-141?
PT-141 has a molar mass of about 1025.2 Da, with a plasma half-life of ~2.7 hours.
Which peptides are related to PT-141?
Closely related entries: Melanotan II. A direct side-by-side comparison is available via the compare function.
Related entries
Legal status
Germany
not approvedAustria
not approvedSwitzerland
not approvedEU
not approvedUSA
prescription-onlyCanada
not approvedLegal status varies by country and can change. This is not legal advice.
Sources & methodology
- 2 peer-reviewed studies cited, linked to PubMed where available.
- Molecular data verified against PubChem and primary literature. PubChem CID 9941379
- Editorial standard: no dosage guidance, no sources, evidence level stated explicitly.
Last editorially reviewed: 1 May 2026
Legal assessment
PT-141 / bremelanotide is FDA-approved in the USA as Vyleesi (HSDD in premenopausal women) but has no EMA approval for Europe. In Germany, the substance is not approved as a medicine; obtaining it without a prescription is not legal. Not listed on the WADA Prohibited List.
Important notice
This site is intended solely for factual, scientifically oriented information about peptides. It does not constitute medical advice, does not replace a consultation with a doctor and contains no recommendations for use in humans.
This site does not sell any substances and names no sources for unapproved substances. For medical questions, please consult qualified medical professionals.
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