PT-141 (Bremelanotide) vs Melanotan I
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
PT-141 (Bremelanotide)
PT-141, also known as Bremelanotide, is a synthetic peptide analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone. It is the only FDA-approved treatment for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women.
Full details →Melanotan I
Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It is FDA-approved as Scenesse for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a rare genetic disorder causing severe sun sensitivity.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | PT-141 (Bremelanotide) | Melanotan I |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | PT-141 activates melanocortin receptors (MC3R and MC4R) in the central nervous system, particularly in areas associated with sexual arousal. Unlike PDE5 inhibitors, it works through the nervous system rather than the vascular system. | Binds to melanocortin 1 receptors (MC1R) on melanocytes, stimulating eumelanin production. This increases skin pigmentation and provides photoprotection without UV exposure. |
| Typical Dosage | FDA-approved dose: 1.75mg administered subcutaneously at least 45 minutes before anticipated sexual activity. Not to be used more than once within 24 hours or more than 8 times per month. | Clinical: 16mg implant every 2 months. Research protocols for tanning typically use 0.5-1mg daily for loading, then maintenance dosing. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection in the abdomen. Available as Vyleesi (commercial product). Research use may involve different dosing protocols. | FDA-approved form is a subcutaneous implant. Research use involves subcutaneous injection. Often combined with minimal UV exposure to enhance results. |
| Side Effects | Common side effects include nausea (40% of users), flushing, headache, and injection site reactions. Transient blood pressure increases may occur. | Nausea (especially initially), facial flushing, fatigue, headache, and darkening of existing moles or freckles. |
| Best For |