PT-141 (Bremelanotide)
A melanocortin-4 receptor agonist that stimulates sexual desire through central nervous system pathways, not vascular mechanisms.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jonathan Snipes, MD. Last reviewed May 6, 2026.What It Is
PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is a melanocortin receptor agonist. Unlike Viagra or Cialis, it works in the brain. On desire itself. Rather than just blood flow.
How It Works
It activates melanocortin-4 receptors in the brain's hypothalamus, stimulating the neural pathways responsible for sexual desire and arousal. It addresses desire, not just mechanics.
Who It's For
Men and women experiencing low libido or hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). Those who want to address the psychological component of sexual health.
Who Should Avoid It
Flag for uncontrolled hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Transient blood pressure elevation can occur. Flag if using PDE5 inhibitors.
Protocol & Pricing
OBP Pharmacy Price
$75/10mg
You pay pharmacy price. No markup.
Starting Dose
20 units (0.4mg)
Form
Injectable vial (5mL, 2mg/mL, 10mg total)
Dosing Protocol
20 units subcutaneous injection 45 minutes before sexual activity. 20 units = 0.2mL × 2mg/mL = 0.4mg per injection. Do not use more than once per 24 hours.
Beyond Use Date
90 Days from compounding (USP <797>)
Use within this window from the date your vial is compounded. BUD is set per USP <797> sterile compounding standards and printed on every label.
Stacking Guide
Stacks Well With
Related Peptides
Common questions about PT-141 (Bremelanotide)
- What is PT-141 (bremelanotide)?
- PT-141, also known as bremelanotide, is a synthetic melanocortin receptor agonist that acts on MC4 receptors in the central nervous system to increase sexual arousal and desire. The molecule is FDA-approved as Vyleesi (bremelanotide injection) for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women. PT-141 is also used off-label in men for libido and erectile function support, particularly in patients who do not respond well to PDE5 inhibitors (sildenafil, tadalafil) or who want a non-vascular mechanism.
- Does PT-141 work for libido and erectile function?
- Yes. The mechanism is central (brain-mediated) rather than vascular, which is why PT-141 works in some patients who do not respond to sildenafil or tadalafil. Onset is typically 30 to 60 minutes post-injection. Effects last 4 to 8 hours. The Vyleesi trial data established efficacy for HSDD in women; men using PT-141 off-label commonly report improvements in libido and erectile response.
- How is PT-141 dosed?
- Standard subcutaneous protocols deliver 1 to 2 mg per dose 30 to 60 minutes before a target window. The Vyleesi-approved dose for women is 1.75 mg subcutaneous as needed (no more than 8 doses per month and no more than 1 dose in 24 hours). Dosing for men off-label often follows a similar pattern. Optimal Balance Pharmacy compounds the vial; your provider sets the per-dose draw on your protocol sheet.
- How is PT-141 injected?
- Subcutaneous injection into the abdomen, upper outer thigh, or back of the upper arm using a 31-gauge, 5/16-inch (8 mm) needle on a U-100 insulin syringe. Sterile syringes are included with every PeptideRx shipment. Inject 30 to 60 minutes before the intended window.
- Are there side effects with PT-141?
- The most common side effects are nausea (most common, especially with the first few doses), facial flushing, headache, and transient hyperpigmentation at the injection site or on the gums. PT-141 raises blood pressure modestly; patients with uncontrolled hypertension should not use it. Avoid concomitant use with cardiac stimulants. If nausea is severe, your provider may prescribe ondansetron PRN.