PT-141
Also known as Bremelanotide
Melanocortin receptor agonist
A centrally-acting melanocortin agonist studied for sexual arousal pathways rather than vascular mechanisms.
How it works
PT-141, also studied as bremelanotide, is a melanocortin receptor agonist that acts centrally rather than peripherally, distinguishing it from earlier compounds studied for sexual response that acted on vascular tissue. Its receptor targets are MC3R and MC4R, both expressed in the hypothalamus.
Activation of these receptors is proposed to modulate dopamine release within arousal-related neural circuits, which is the basis for its study in the context of sexual desire rather than blood flow. This central mechanism explains why its effects are reported independently of vascular changes.
Phase 3 trial literature reported statistically significant improvements in desire and reductions in associated distress scores relative to placebo, giving PT-141 one of the more developed clinical trial records among melanocortin-based research peptides.
What research has shown
Phase 3 trials reported statistically significant improvements in desire and reduced distress scores versus placebo.
Reported ranges in the literature
Low end
0.5 to 1 mg as needed
Optimal
1.75 mg (the trial dose), 45 min before
High end
2 mg; nausea rates rise sharply above this
Frequency reported in the literature: As needed; no more than once in 24 hours in trial protocols
Frequently asked questions
What is PT-141?
PT-141, also called bremelanotide, is a centrally-acting melanocortin receptor agonist studied for sexual arousal pathways.
How does PT-141 differ from Melanotan I?
PT-141 targets MC3R and MC4R in the brain and is studied for arousal, while Melanotan I targets MC1R on melanocytes and is studied for pigmentation. Both are melanocortin analogs but act on different receptor subtypes and tissues.
What does the research show?
Phase 3 trials reported statistically significant improvements in desire scores and reduced associated distress compared with placebo.
How is PT-141 typically studied?
Published protocols describe as-needed administration, generally timed around 45 minutes before the studied activity, with no more than one administration in a 24-hour period in trial designs.
How long are research blocks typically?
Because PT-141 is studied on an as-needed basis rather than a fixed daily schedule, trial designs typically track outcomes across multiple as-needed uses over several weeks.
Related compounds
Further reading
Research use only
All content on this page is general reference information for laboratory research contexts. It is not medical advice, is not intended to direct human use, and does not replace guidance from a licensed healthcare professional. Not for human consumption. Must be 18+.