Compound profile
Bremelanotide
Also known as PT-141, Vyleesi
Last reviewed October 2026
Educational only. A summary of published research, not medical advice or a recommendation. No doses are listed.
Quick take
A melanocortin receptor agonist used as needed for low sexual desire in premenopausal women.
- Class
- Melanocortin peptides
- Status
- FDA-approved
- Evidence
- Large human trials
- Half-life
- About 2.7 hours
Mechanism fingerprint
What it acts on, and how. Each chip links to that pathway on the map.
Activates melanocortin receptors in the brain, mainly MC4R, which are involved in sexual desire.
What makes it different
An FDA-approved melanocortin agonist taken as needed for low sexual desire, acting mainly on MC4R in the brain.
Compare side by side
Mechanism & pathways
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Agonist
Melanocortin receptors
mainly MC4R in the brain
A family of five receptors. MC1R on pigment cells controls skin color; MC3R and MC4R in the brain affect appetite, energy use and sexual function.
Evidence overview
Large human trials
Approved after two Phase 3 trials (the RECONNECT studies).
A breakdown into human, animal and cell studies hasn't been added for this compound yet.
Why it's used
Treats distressing low sexual desire in premenopausal women.
Side effects & risks
Reported side effects
- Nausea (common)
- Flushing
- Headache
- Injection-site reactions
Risks and warnings
- Temporary rise in blood pressure and drop in heart rate; not for people with uncontrolled high blood pressure or heart disease
- Darkening of patches of skin with repeated use
FAQ
Short answers taken from this profile.
What is Bremelanotide?
A melanocortin receptor agonist used as needed for low sexual desire in premenopausal women.
How does Bremelanotide work?
Activates melanocortin receptors in the brain, mainly MC4R, which are involved in sexual desire.
What receptors or pathways does Bremelanotide act on?
melanocortin receptors (agonist; mainly MC4R in the brain).
How is Bremelanotide different from similar compounds?
An FDA-approved melanocortin agonist taken as needed for low sexual desire, acting mainly on MC4R in the brain.
What is the half-life of Bremelanotide?
About 2.7 hours.
Is Bremelanotide approved?
FDA-approved (Vyleesi) for low sexual desire (hypoactive sexual desire disorder) in premenopausal women.
What has Bremelanotide been studied for?
Treats distressing low sexual desire in premenopausal women.
How strong is the evidence?
Large human trials. Approved after two Phase 3 trials (the RECONNECT studies).
What are the main risks?
Temporary rise in blood pressure and drop in heart rate; not for people with uncontrolled high blood pressure or heart disease. Darkening of patches of skin with repeated use.
Sources
- Kingsberg SA et al. Bremelanotide for the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder: two randomized phase 3 trials. Obstet Gynecol 2019.
- FDA prescribing information for Vyleesi.