PT-141 (Bremelanotide) vs SHLP2
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 →SHLP2
SHLP2 (Small Humanin-Like Peptide 2) is a mitochondrial-derived peptide similar to humanin. It has shown insulin-sensitizing and cytoprotective effects in research, with potential metabolic benefits.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | PT-141 (Bremelanotide) | SHLP2 |
|---|---|---|
| Dose Range | 1.8 mg | 1 mg–5 mg |
| Frequency | Less than daily | 1x daily |
| Cycle Length | 4–12 weeks | 4–8 weeks |
| Route | subcutaneous | subcutaneous |
| 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. | Enhances insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake. Provides cytoprotective effects similar to humanin. May act through similar but distinct receptor pathways. |
| 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. | Research compound with doses in the microgram to low milligram range studied in animal models. Human dosing not established. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection in the abdomen. Available as Vyleesi (commercial product). Research use may involve different dosing protocols. | Subcutaneous or intraperitoneal injection in research settings. Various SHLP analogs (1-6) have different properties. |
| Side Effects | Common side effects include nausea (40% of users), flushing, headache, and injection site reactions. Transient blood pressure increases may occur. | Limited data. Animal studies suggest good tolerability. May affect glucose metabolism. |
| Best For |
Key Differences
Unique to PT-141 (Bremelanotide):
Unique to SHLP2:
Key Studies
PT-141 (Bremelanotide)
- Small Effects, Questionable Outcomes: Bremelanotide for Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder.
Journal of sex research, 2024
- Safety Profile of Bremelanotide Across the Clinical Development Program.
Journal of women's health (2002), 2022
- Bremelanotide for Treatment of Female Hypoactive Sexual Desire.
Neurology international, 2022
SHLP2
- Mitochondrial Peptide SHLP2 Limits Poly(I: C)-Induced Alveolar Epithelial Injury by Modulating Redox, Apoptotic, Inflammatory, and Inflammasome Responses.
Cytotechnology, 2026
- SHLP2 restores pre-osteoblastic cells against oxidative stress-induced inflammaging.
Scientific reports, 2025
- SHLP2 alleviates allergic asthma by inhibiting ETV5/GSDMD signaling pathway-mediated pyroptosis.
Cellular signalling, 2025
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