Dossier overview
4
research areas
3
references
3
handling notes
01
Mechanism of action
PT-141 activates melanocortin in the central nervous system — particularly MC4R — implicated in sexual response pathways. The mechanism contrasts with PDE5-inhibitor approaches by targeting central rather than peripheral pathways.
02
Research applications
- Melanocortin pharmacology
- Female sexual dysfunction clinical research
- Central nervous system peptide signalling
- Metabolic-disorder research (MC4R pathway, separate from approved indication)
Evidence at a glance
What's behind this profile
3 citations · 2006–2023
- Human
- 1
- Review
- 2
Studies in human volunteers or patients (incl. early-phase trials).
Narrative or systematic reviews; no primary data.
Publication years
- 06
- 07
- 08
- 09
- 10
- 11
- 12
- 13
- 14
- 15
- 16
- 17
- 18
- 19
- 20
- 21
- 22
- 23
Counts are derived from the cited studies below. A study covering both in vivo and in vitro work is counted by its primary model. Sample size is reported in 1 of 3 citations. Findings remain model-specific and are not extrapolated to therapeutic use.
03
Study references
Each profile cites a minimum of two peer-reviewed sources, with model type and reported sample size where the source provides it. Findings are model-specific and must not be extrapolated to therapeutic use.
Bremelanotide: First Approval
2019
Dhillon S et al. · Drugs
- Model
- Drug approval review
- Sample
- N/A (review)
Reviewed the regulatory evidence and Phase III trial data supporting FDA approval of bremelanotide for premenopausal acquired HSDD.
An effect on the subjective sexual response in premenopausal women with sexual arousal disorder by bremelanotide (PT-141)
2006
Diamond LE et al. · Journal of Sexual Medicine
- Model
- Double-blind crossover clinical trial (intranasal formulation)
- Sample
- n=18
A single intranasal dose was associated with increased reported sexual desire and arousal satisfaction versus placebo in women with sexual arousal disorder.
Targeting the central melanocortin system for the treatment of metabolic disorders
2023
Sweeney P et al. · Nature Reviews Endocrinology
- Model
- Narrative review
- Sample
- N/A (review)
Reviewed melanocortin pathway pharmacology including bremelanotide and setmelanotide, with focus on metabolic and behavioural disorder applications.
Evidence caveats
- FDA approval is restricted to premenopausal acquired HSDD. Use outside the approved indication is investigational and is not endorsed here.
- Reported adverse effects in trials include transient blood pressure increases. Clinical use requires a qualified healthcare professional.
04
Storage and handling
Approved product follows manufacturer instructions. Research-grade material must be stored under controlled laboratory conditions per protocol.
- Approved product follows the manufacturer label.
- Research-grade material requires controlled storage and batch documentation.
- Clinical use is a medical decision with a qualified healthcare professional.