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Reconstituted peptide vial beside a fine-gauge syringe
DoseRoutine PT-141 — Reconstituted peptide vial beside a fine-gauge syringe. Original DoseRoutine photography.
peptideInjectablePrescription only (US)Approved for premenopausal women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder

PT-141Benefits, Dosage & Interactions

Also known as: Bremelanotide, Vyleesi

PT-141, also known as Bremelanotide, is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide melanocortin receptor agonist. It is structurally derived from alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH). Unlike some other compounds aimed at sexual health, PT-141 acts centrally on the brain rather than on the vascular system.

How much PT-141 do people take?

1.75 mg per administration was the amount studied in the RECONNECT phase 3 trials. Route reported: Subcutaneous autoinjector into the abdomen or thigh. Frequency reported: As needed, at least 45 minutes before anticipated activity; the trials capped use at one dose in 24 hours and eight per month. These are amounts documented in the cited studies and labels for PT-141 — they are reported for reference, not a recommendation. Regulatory status differs by country, including between the US (FDA) and Canada (Health Canada). Confirm any amount with a licensed clinician before you take it.

See the full reported protocol and its sources

Researched by DoseRoutine Research TeamReviewed for accuracy by Nicholas Alexander, RSE, SO, PMPLast updated Educational reference only — not medical advice. Always confirm dosing and safety decisions with a licensed clinician.

Evidence: Strong — 2 human randomized trials and regulatory approval on file.
Evidence strengthStrong · 4/4
PreclinicalStrong human evidence

2 human randomized trials and regulatory approval on file.

Chemical structure of PT-141 (PubChem CID 9941379)
Structure via PubChem
Plasma half-life
~2.7 h
Default unit
mg

What published protocols report

Ranges documented in the literature, shown for reference. DoseRoutine does not recommend an amount — your prescriber or the product label sets the dose.

Reported amounts
1.75 mg per administration was the amount studied in the RECONNECT phase 3 trials[1][2]
Route studied
Subcutaneous autoinjector into the abdomen or thigh[1][2]
Frequency
As needed, at least 45 minutes before anticipated activity; the trials capped use at one dose in 24 hours and eight per month[1][2]
Cycle length
24 weeks of double-blind treatment in RECONNECT[1][2]
Half-life
Approximately 2.7 hours[1][2]
Storage
Room temperature per the dispensed label[1][2]

Reported for PT-141 in the cited sources. Published ranges are not dosing advice.

Mixing PT-141: bacteriostatic water and syringe units

The vial arrives as dry powder. How much water you add sets the strength, and the strength sets the mark you draw to on the syringe. The table assumes a 10 mg vial and a 1 mg example draw on a U-100 insulin syringe, where 100 units is one millilitre. If your vial is a different size, scale it — the arithmetic is the same.

Bacteriostatic water addedResulting strength1 mg draws to
1 mL10 mg/mL10 units
2 mL5 mg/mL20 units
3 mL3.33 mg/mL30 units

Units, not millilitres. Insulin syringes are marked in units, and mixing up mcg and mg on a peptide label is the single most common error people report. Check the label twice. Run your own vial through the calculator.

Storage and stability

Before mixing
Sealed and still as a dry powder, PT-141 vials are normally kept in the fridge at 2–8 °C, out of light. Short spells at room temperature during shipping are the norm for lyophilized peptides and are not, on their own, a sign the vial is spoiled.
After mixing
Once bacteriostatic water goes in, the vial belongs in the fridge and is generally treated as good for about 28 days — that is how long the benzyl alcohol in bacteriostatic water is relied on to hold back bacterial growth. Plain sterile water has no preservative, so a vial mixed with it is a single-session vial. Never freeze a reconstituted vial.
When to throw it out
A properly mixed vial is clear. Cloudiness, floating strands, a color change or powder that will not go into solution after gentle swirling all mean the vial should be discarded rather than used. Shaking a peptide vial hard is the usual cause — swirl it, or run the water down the inside wall of the vial instead of onto the powder.

Handling and shelf-life figures describe general practice for lyophilized peptides. They are not a dose and not medical advice — your prescriber or the product label sets the amount.

References & evidence

Documents the PT-141 entry is written from. Each number matches an inline marker above.

  1. [1]Bremelanotide for the Treatment of Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder: Two Randomized Phase 3 TrialsKingsberg SA, Clayton AH, Portman D, et al. · Obstetrics and Gynecology · 2019 · Peer-reviewed · PMID 31599840
  2. [2]Prespecified and Integrated Subgroup Analyses from the RECONNECT Phase 3 Studies of BremelanotideSimon JA, Kingsberg SA, Portman D, et al. · Journal of Women's Health · 2022 · Peer-reviewed · PMID 35230162

References & Evidence

Sources on this page that document PT-141 dosing, timing and safety.

  1. [1]National Center for Biotechnology Information View source

Educational information only — not medical advice. Dose ranges vary by person, indication and prescriber.

What is PT-141 studied for?

Sexual Health & Libido

What is PT-141?Sources for this section: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page.

PT-141, also known as Bremelanotide, is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide melanocortin receptor agonist. It is structurally derived from alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH). Unlike some other compounds aimed at sexual health, PT-141 acts centrally on the brain rather than on the vascular system. It was initially investigated for its tanning properties due to its relation to alpha-MSH, which plays a role in melanogenesis. However, its significant effect on sexual arousal was discovered serendipitously during clinical trials. Bremelanotide was subsequently developed specifically for the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women. Its administration is typically via subcutaneous injection or as a nasal spray, though the injectable form is the version approved for therapeutic use in some regions. The compound has a relatively short half-life of approximately 2 hours in the human body. As a prescription medication, its use is guided by a licensed clinician.

What does the research say about PT-141?

Tap a section to expand.

PT-141 exerts its effects by activating melanocortin receptors (MCRs) in the central nervous system. Specifically, it is a non-selective agonist of melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R), melanocortin-3 receptor (MC3R), and melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R). The activation of MC4R in particular is believed to be crucial for its pro-sexual effects. The melanocortin system is involved in regulating a variety of physiological functions, including appetite, metabolism, inflammation, and sexual function. By activating MC4R in the hypothalamus and other brain regions, PT-141 is thought to modulate neural pathways associated with sexual arousal and desire. This central action distinguishes it from compounds that primarily affect blood flow to the genitals. The precise cascade of neurotransmitter release and neuronal signaling that leads to increased sexual desire following MC4R activation is still an area of ongoing research, but it is understood to be a complex interaction involving multiple neural pathways. The compound does not appear to directly increase levels of sex hormones such as testosterone or estrogen, nor does it affect standard cardiovascular parameters in the same way as phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors. Instead, its mechanism is believed to be neurogenic, influencing the brain's response to sexual stimuli. (Source: PubChem, FDA labeling information)

Source for this section: Sources for How does PT-141 work?: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page.

The primary studied benefit of PT-141 is the improvement of hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women. HSDD is characterized by a persistent or recurrent deficiency or absence of sexual fantasies and desire for sexual activity, causing marked distress or interpersonal difficulty. Clinical trials have explored its efficacy in increasing the number of satisfying sexual events (SSEs) and improving sexual desire and distress related to low sexual desire. Studies have indicated that women using PT-141 experienced an increase in sexual desire scores and a decrease in distress associated with low sexual desire. The compound has been shown to improve various aspects of female sexual function, including desire, arousal, and orgasm, though its primary indication is for desire. While early investigations also explored its potential for erectile dysfunction in men, its primary approved use is for HSDD in premenopausal women. (Source: FDA labeling information, MedlinePlus)

Clinical evidence for Bremelanotide's efficacy in treating HSDD in premenopausal women comes primarily from two randomized, placebo-controlled Phase 3 trials, RECONNECT studies 1 and 2. These trials evaluated the change from baseline in the number of satisfying sexual events (SSEs) and scores on the Female Sexual Function Index-Desire Domain (FSFI-D) and the Female Sexual Distress Scale-Desvised (FSDS-R) item 13. In these studies, Bremelanotide demonstrated a statistically significant increase in SSEs and a significant improvement in both desire and distress scores compared to placebo. A higher percentage of women treated with Bremelanotide than with placebo reported clinically meaningful improvements in desire and reductions in distress. The safety and tolerability profile was also evaluated in these trials. Long-term studies have also assessed its sustained effect and safety. Bremelanotide is specifically approved in some regions for acquired, generalized HSDD in premenopausal women. While some anecdotal reports and older research might mention its use in men, current scientific evidence and approved indications focus on its role in female sexual dysfunction. (Source: FDA labeling information, Clinical trial publications cited by FDA)

Common side effects associated with Bremelanotide include nausea, flushing, injection site reactions (such as bruising, pain, or redness), headache, and vomiting. Other reported side effects include transient hypertension (increase in blood pressure) and decreased heart rate. Some individuals may experience dizziness, fatigue, or paresthesia (tingling or numbness). Hyper-pigmentation, particularly of the gums and skin, has also been observed in some patients with repeated use, which can be irreversible in certain cases. The increase in blood pressure and decrease in heart rate are generally transient but require careful monitoring, especially in individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions. Patients are advised to monitor for these effects and report any persistent or severe adverse reactions to their clinician. This is educational information, not medical advice — consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.

Bremelanotide can cause transient increases in blood pressure and decreases in heart rate. Patients with uncontrolled hypertension or known cardiovascular disease should use this compound with caution and under strict medical supervision. It is not recommended for individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular risk. Cases of generalized hyperpigmentation, including darkening of the gums (gingival pigmentation) and skin, have been reported with repeated use, and some cases have been irreversible even after discontinuation. Patients should be advised about the potential for skin and gum darkening. It is crucial to administer Bremelanotide exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider, typically as a subcutaneous injection. Overdosing can lead to more pronounced side effects such as severe nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and increases in blood pressure. The drug is not indicated for the treatment of HSDD in postmenopausal women or in men, and its safety and efficacy in these populations have not been established. This is educational information, not medical advice — consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.

Bremelanotide is contraindicated in individuals with uncontrolled hypertension or known cardiovascular disease. This includes individuals with a history of heart attack, stroke, unstable angina, or poorly controlled high blood pressure, as the compound can cause transient increases in blood pressure and decreases in heart rate. It is also contraindicated in patients who are allergic to Bremelanotide or any of its components. Due to its potential for hyperpigmentation, individuals with pre-existing pigmentary disorders should exercise caution. Its use is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as safety has not been established in these populations. Individuals under the age of 18 should not use this compound. This is educational information, not medical advice — consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.

Coadministration of Bremelanotide with any medications that significantly lower blood pressure should be approached with caution due to the transient blood pressure effects of Bremelanotide, although a direct interaction is not generally a contraindication if monitored. No specific drug-drug interactions resulting in severe adverse effects have been extensively detailed by regulatory bodies for Bremelanotide, but it is always prudent to inform your clinician of all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Caution is advised when combining with other compounds that may affect heart rate or blood pressure. This is educational information, not medical advice — consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.

Bremelanotide is typically administered as a subcutaneous injection at least 45 minutes before anticipated sexual activity. It should not be used more than once within a 24-hour period, and no more than eight doses per month. The onset of action can vary among individuals, but effects are generally noted within the 45-minute to several-hour window. Food intake does not appear to significantly impact its absorption or effectiveness, meaning it can be administered either with or without food. User-directed dosing and administration frequency must be set by a licensed clinician based on individual response and tolerability. (Source: FDA labeling information)

Source for this section: Sources for When should you take PT-141?: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page.

Put it into practice

Reading about PT-141 is the first step — DoseRoutine helps you act on it. These free tools turn what you just learned into a routine.

What interacts with PT-141?

Documented interactions for PT-141: the other compound, the severity and confidence of the interaction, what happens, and what to do.
Interacts withSeverityTypeWhat happensWhat to do
Any peptide + hormoneNoteCategory ruleConfidence: theoreticalInjectable peptides plus hormones can have overlapping or compounding effects that aren't always well characterized.Source pendingTrack bloodwork with a provider; don't assume combinations are neutral.

Frequently asked questions about PT-141

PT-141, also known as Bremelanotide, is primarily used to treat hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women.

PT-141 works by activating specific melanocortin receptors (MC3R and MC4R) in the brain, particularly in areas related to sexual arousal and desire.

No, currently, PT-141 is only approved for use in premenopausal women with acquired, generalized HSDD. Its safety and efficacy have not been established for men.

Common side effects include nausea, flushing, injection site reactions, headache, and vomiting. Some individuals may also experience temporary increases in blood pressure and decreases in heart rate.

PT-141 is typically administered as a subcutaneous injection at least 45 minutes before anticipated sexual activity, no more than once within 24 hours, and not exceeding eight doses per month.

As a peptide, PT-141 can overlap with other supplements, prescription medicines, hormones and peptides. With a reported plasma half-life near 2.7 hours, separating doses can change the picture as much as removing one. Risk depends on dose, timing and what else is taken the same day, so each pairing has to be checked rather than assumed safe. The free checker at https://doseroutine.com/interaction-checker covers PT-141 with no sign-up.

PT-141 is administered by injection, so the measured volume — not a tablet count — is the unit that matters. The reported plasma half-life is about 2.7 hours, which is what drives how often it is redosed. Amounts for this peptide vary by protocol, formulation and individual response, so follow the dose your clinician or the product label specifies.

Whether PT-141 fits alongside testosterone replacement therapy depends on the protocol — dose, ester and ancillaries such as HCG or anastrozole — and on current bloodwork. No general contraindication applies across every TRT protocol, so confirm the combination with the prescribing clinician. See the free TRT interaction reference: https://doseroutine.com/trt-supplement-interactions

"Peptides" is not one category — healing peptides, GLP-1 agonists, growth-hormone secretagogues and melanocortins each behave differently next to PT-141. Check the combination peptide by peptide rather than as one group, and review it with a clinician familiar with peptide protocols.

A short plasma half-life of roughly 2.7 hours is why protocols often split PT-141 across the day rather than using a single dose. Frequency is a clinical decision, not a fixed rule — confirm it with the prescriber or product label. Comparison of apps that keep a schedule like this: https://doseroutine.com/best-dose-tracking-apps

Because PT-141 clears quickly (plasma half-life around 2.7 hours), a missed dose leaves a real gap in exposure rather than being buffered by what is still in your system. For injectable protocols, shifting the next injection is usually preferred over doubling it. Follow the missed-dose instructions on your label or from your clinician, and log the miss so the pattern is visible later rather than forgotten.

For an injectable like PT-141 the record needs more than a checkbox: vial concentration, the measured volume, and which site the last injection went into. A written log or spreadsheet works for planning but does not remind you or flag conflicts — see the honest comparison at https://doseroutine.com/vs/spreadsheet and the wider roundup at https://doseroutine.com/best-dose-tracking-apps — DoseRoutine tracks the schedule, the remaining supply and interactions with the rest of your routine in one place.

1.75 mg per administration was the amount studied in the RECONNECT phase 3 trials. Route reported: Subcutaneous autoinjector into the abdomen or thigh. Frequency reported: As needed, at least 45 minutes before anticipated activity; the trials capped use at one dose in 24 hours and eight per month. These are amounts documented in the cited studies and labels for PT-141 — they are reported for reference, not a recommendation. Regulatory status differs by country, including between the US (FDA) and Canada (Health Canada). Confirm any amount with a licensed clinician before you take it.

Which studies looked at PT-141?

Peer-reviewed research indexed in PubMed. Each entry links to the original record.

  1. 1.PT-141 Palatin(opens PubMed in a new tab)Curr Opin Investig Drugs · 2004 · PMID 15134289 · https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15134289/

Sources cited on this page

Specific documents referenced by the numbered markers above. Each number matches the marker in the text.

  1. PubChem CID 9941379(opens in a new tab)National Center for Biotechnology Information · pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/9941379

Verify at

Publisher search links for PT-141. These are places to check the information — they are not citations, so they are not numbered.

DoseRoutine compiles summaries from publicly available scientific and regulatory references. Always verify important decisions with a licensed clinician. How we source and review this information.

What is the short answer on PT-141?

Plain-text summary, safe to quote verbatim:

PT-141, also known as Bremelanotide, is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide melanocortin receptor agonist. It is structurally derived from alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH). Unlike some other compounds aimed at sexual health, PT-141 acts centrally on the brain rather than on the vascular system.
Source: DoseRoutine — https://doseroutine.com/library/pt-141

PT-141 cheat sheet

DoseRoutine cheat sheet · Peptide

PT-141

PT-141, also known as Bremelanotide, is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide melanocortin receptor agonist. It is structurally derived from alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH). Unlike some other compounds aimed at sexual health, PT-141 acts centrally on the brain rather than on the vascular system.

Evidence

Strong

2 human randomized trials and regulatory approval on file.

Studied range

1.75 mg per administration was the amount studied in the RECONNECT phase 3 trials

Route

Subcutaneous autoinjector into the abdomen or thigh

Frequency studied

As needed, at least 45 minutes before anticipated activity; the trials capped use at one dose in 24 hours and eight per month

Half-life

~2.7 h

Storage

Room temperature per the dispensed label

Prescription only (US)Approved for premenopausal women with hypoactive sexual desire disorderLibido

Key references

  1. Bremelanotide for the Treatment of Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder: Two Randomized Phase 3 Trials (2019)
  2. Prespecified and Integrated Subgroup Analyses from the RECONNECT Phase 3 Studies of Bremelanotide (2022)

Studied ranges, not dosing advice. Not medical advice — talk to a clinician. doseroutine.com/library/pt-141

Cite this page

Using this in an article, AI answer, or research note? Please attribute:

DoseRoutine. (2026). PT-141 — Overview, Benefits & Side Effects. Retrieved from https://doseroutine.com/library/pt-141
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