PT-141
Peptide melanocortin MC4R receptor agonist, FDA-approved for the treatment of Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women. The only approved medication that acts on the central nervous system to increase sexual desire.
Last updated:: 06/04/2026
Research Status
ANVISA (Brazil)
Not regulated
FDA (USA)
Approved
EMA (Europe)
Not regulated
Mechanism of Action
PT-141 (bremelanotide) activates the melanocortin MC4R receptor in the central nervous system, specifically in hypothalamic areas associated with sexual response. Unlike medications such as sildenafil (Viagra), which acts on blood flow, PT-141 acts directly on the brain circuits of sexual desire.
Study Protocols
Dosages and regimens used in published clinical studies. This does not constitute a medical prescription.
Disfunção sexual feminina (HSDD)
Subcutânea (SC)Aplicar 45 min antes da atividade sexual
Bremelanotida. Aprovado pelo FDA (Vyleesi). Agonista do receptor MC4R. Não mais que 8 doses/mês.
Benefits
HSDD treatment in women
ProvenRECONNECT studies (phase 3) demonstrated a significant increase in sexual desire and reduction in distress in women with HSDD. FDA-approved in 2019.
View studyErectile dysfunction in men
Under researchPhase 2 studies showed efficacy in male erectile dysfunction, but development was discontinued in favor of the female market.
Risks and Side Effects
Nausea
Moderate(40% of patients)Most common side effect. Can be significant and is a reason for discontinuation in some patients.
Blood pressure increase
Moderate(Transient)Transiently raises blood pressure. Contraindicated in uncontrolled hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
Hyperpigmentation
Low(Uncommon)May cause skin darkening in exposed areas due to melanocortin receptor activation in the skin.
Internet vs. Science
What people say online compared to the actual scientific evidence.
Female Viagra
Partially trueWhat they claim
PT-141 is Viagra for women — take it and it's solved.
Actual evidence
FDA-approved for female HSDD, but the mechanism is completely different from Viagra. It acts on the brain (desire), not blood flow (erection). Efficacy is modest — NNT of ~8 (need to treat 8 women for 1 to have clinically significant benefit). Significant side effects.
| Claim | O que dizem | Evidência real | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Female Viagra | PT-141 is Viagra for women — take it and it's solved. | FDA-approved for female HSDD, but the mechanism is completely different from Viagra. It acts on the brain (desire), not blood flow (erection). Efficacy is modest — NNT of ~8 (need to treat 8 women for 1 to have clinically significant benefit). Significant side effects. | Partially true |
Studies and References (1)
Kingsberg SA, Clayton AH, Portman D, et al. — Obstetrics & Gynecology (2019) — n=1247
Bremelanotide melhorou significativamente desejo sexual e reduziu distress em mulheres com HSDD em dois estudos de fase 3 (n=1,247).
PubMedFrequently Asked Questions
Is PT-141 legal in Brazil?
Vyleesi (bremelanotide) is not registered with ANVISA. In the US, it has been FDA-approved since 2019 for HSDD in premenopausal women. It is administered via self-administered subcutaneous injection.
Important notice
This content is strictly informational and educational, based on published scientific research. It does not constitute medical advice, prescription, or encouragement to use any substance. Always consult a qualified physician before starting any treatment.
How to Obtain
This compound can be prepared by licensed compounding pharmacies with a valid prescription. Consult a physician first.