PT-141

PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide that acts as an agonist of melanocortin receptors, primarily MC4R and MC3R, in the central nervous system. It was derived from research on Melanotan II and developed specifically for its effects on sexual function.

Unlike phosphodiesterase inhibitors that work on vascular mechanisms, PT-141 acts centrally through melanocortin pathways in the brain to modulate sexual desire and arousal. This unique mechanism of action represents a different approach to sexual dysfunction research.

PT-141 was approved by the FDA in 2019 for the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women. It is the only FDA-approved medication that works through melanocortin receptor pathways for this indication.