‹ Back
PT-141, Bremelanotide · How it works
The MC4 receptor
PT-141 binds the melanocortin 4 receptor, MC4R, and to a lesser extent MC1R and MC3R. MC4R sits in the hypothalamus, in the paraventricular nucleus and the medial preoptic area, which drive sexual motivation. PT-141 is a cyclic ring, so it fits the receptor tightly and lasts hours. It acts in the brain, not in the genitals.
Sources
Read the original sources
- Structural insights into ligand recognition and activation of the melanocortin-4 receptor. (Zhang · 2021 · Abstract; full methods not assumed · checked 2026-10-13)
- Bremelanotide product pharmacology, Vyleesi (Identity, mechanism and route sections · checked 2026-10-13)