What Is PT-141?
PT-141, also known as bremelanotide, is a peptide that activates melanocortin receptors in the brain. It was developed from research on melanotan, a tanning peptide, after researchers noticed it increased sexual arousal.
In 2019, the FDA approved bremelanotide (brand name Vyleesi) for premenopausal women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD)—low sexual desire that causes distress and isn't due to another condition or medication.
How Is PT-141 Different From Viagra?
Viagra (sildenafil) and similar drugs:
- Work on blood flow by blocking an enzyme (PDE5)
- Help men get and maintain erections when they're aroused
- Don't directly increase sexual desire
PT-141:
- Works in the brain on pathways involved in sexual desire and arousal
- Aims to increase desire itself, not just physical response
- Is used as needed, about 45 minutes before sexual activity (as an injection in its approved form)
Does It Work for Women?
In clinical trials, premenopausal women with HSDD who used bremelanotide reported modest improvements in sexual desire and less distress compared with placebo. Effects vary from person to person.
Does It Work for Men?
PT-141 was studied in men with erectile dysfunction, including some who didn't respond to Viagra, and showed some effects on erections. However, it is not FDA-approved for men, and it isn't a first-line treatment for ED. Men who use it do so off-label.
Side Effects
- Nausea (very common, especially with the first dose)
- Flushing
- Headache
- Temporary increase in blood pressure
- Darkening of the skin or gums with repeated use
It's not recommended for people with uncontrolled high blood pressure or heart disease.
Getting Help With Sexual Health
Low desire and erectile issues have many possible causes, including hormones, medications, stress, and relationship factors. A provider can help identify the cause and the best treatment.
Learn more about provider-guided support here: Talk to a Heva Specialist
The Bottom Line
PT-141 works on desire in the brain, while Viagra works on blood flow. It's FDA-approved for low desire in premenopausal women and sometimes used off-label in men, but nausea and blood pressure effects are worth discussing with a provider.