Description

PT-141, also known as Bremelanotide, is a synthetic peptide derived from α-Melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), a naturally occurring hormone involved in melanin production and sexual function. Unlike conventional erectile dysfunction treatments that work by increasing blood flow to the penis, PT-141 acts differently by stimulating melanocortin receptors (specifically MC3-R and MC4-R) in the brain. These receptors are linked to sexual arousal and reproductive processes. Its mechanism targets the enhancement of sexual desire and arousal by activating neural circuits linked to sexual activity. (1)

Clinical research has shown that PT-141 can induce penile erections in animal models and improve erectile function in humans, especially for those unresponsive to traditional treatments like PDE5 inhibitors. Unlike these standard treatments, PT-141 works through neural activation instead of vasodilation. Additionally, PT-141 may have mood-enhancing effects, possibly by influencing dopamine neurotransmission. It has been shown to increase libido and treat hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in women. Typically administered via injection, PT-141 is being explored as a treatment for sexual dysfunction in both men and women. (2)

(1) Kim, S., Cho, M. C., Cho, S. Y., Chung, H., & Rajasekaran, M. R. (2021). Novel Emerging Therapies for Erectile Dysfunction. The world journal of men’s health, 39(1), 48–64. https://doi.org/10.5534/wjmh.200007

(2) Ückert, S., Bannowsky, A., Albrecht, K., & Kuczyk, M. A. (2014). Melanocortin receptor agonists in the treatment of male and female sexual dysfunctions: results from basic research and clinical studies. Expert opinion on investigational drugs, 23(11), 1477-1483.

Additional information