Bremelanotide (PT-141) was developed from Melanotan 2 (MT-II). PT-141 is a metabolite of MT-II that lacks the C-terminal amide function-stripping away tanning properties.
PT-141 is the only synthetic aphrodisiac. Studies have shown Bremelanotide to be effective in treating sexual dysfunction in both men (erectile dysfunction or impotence) and women (sexual arousal disorder). Unlike Viagra and other related medications (PDE5s), PT-141 does not act upon the vascular system, but directly through the nervous system (hypothalamus) to increase desire. Viagra, Cials and Levitra are not considered aphrodisiacs as they do not have any direct effect on the libido. However, treatment with PDE5 inhibitors and PT-141 are known to have a synergistic effect.
Bremelanotide is a melanocortin peptide hormone. PT-141 binds to the melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) in particular in the brain. Nine out of ten volunteers experienced sexual arousal in trials. The aphrodisiac effects of Bremelanotide are in a class of its own.
Bremelanotide, injected (subcutaneously), has a unique window of opportunity lasting six to 72 hours. In lab trials female rats exposed to PT-141 began "flirting" with male rats for sex. Postures and movements left no doubt in the male rats minds that they were in the mood.
