PT-141 (Bremelanotide) vs Setmelanotide
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 →Setmelanotide
Setmelanotide (Imcivree) is an FDA-approved MC4R agonist for chronic weight management in patients with obesity due to specific genetic conditions (POMC, PCSK1, or LEPR deficiency).
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | PT-141 (Bremelanotide) | Setmelanotide |
|---|---|---|
| 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. | Selective agonist of melanocortin 4 receptors (MC4R) in the hypothalamus, restoring the satiety signaling pathway that is disrupted in certain genetic obesity syndromes. |
| 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. | Adults: Start 2mg daily, titrate based on tolerability up to 3mg daily. Pediatrics (6+): Weight-based dosing starting at 1mg daily. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection in the abdomen. Available as Vyleesi (commercial product). Research use may involve different dosing protocols. | Subcutaneous injection once daily. Requires genetic testing to confirm eligible mutations before prescribing. |
| Side Effects | Common side effects include nausea (40% of users), flushing, headache, and injection site reactions. Transient blood pressure increases may occur. | Injection site reactions, skin hyperpigmentation, spontaneous penile erections, depression, and suicidal ideation (boxed warning). GI effects less common than GLP-1s. |
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