PT-141, known by its drug name bremelanotide, stands apart from most wellness peptides because it is FDA-approved: it is sold as Vyleesi for premenopausal women with acquired, generalized low sexual desire. It works in the brain rather than on blood flow, and it is sometimes used off-label for men. Dr. David Nazarian in Beverly Hills evaluates low desire and sexual concerns as a medical issue first and discusses whether bremelanotide fits.
What Is PT-141?
Bremelanotide is a synthetic peptide that activates melanocortin receptors, especially MC4R, in the brain. These pathways are involved in sexual motivation and arousal. It was developed from research on melanotan II, a related tanning peptide, and was approved by the FDA in 2019 as Vyleesi.
Approved Use
Vyleesi is approved for premenopausal women with acquired, generalized hypoactive sexual desire disorder (low desire that causes distress and is not explained by another medical or psychiatric condition, relationship problem or medication). It is given as a self-injection under the skin at least 45 minutes before anticipated sexual activity, not daily. The label limits use to one dose in 24 hours and no more than eight doses a month.
In clinical trials, women using bremelanotide reported modest improvements in desire and less distress compared with placebo. It does not work for everyone.
Use in Men
Earlier studies explored bremelanotide for erectile dysfunction, including men who did not respond well to pills such as sildenafil. It is not FDA-approved for men, and any use is off-label. Because it acts on desire and arousal rather than blood flow, it is different from standard ED medications. See our sexual health, shockwave therapy and penile injection therapy pages for other options.
Side Effects and Precautions
- Nausea is the most common side effect, especially with the first doses.
- Flushing, headache and injection-site reactions
- Temporary rise in blood pressure and lower heart rate after each dose; not recommended with uncontrolled high blood pressure or known cardiovascular disease
- Darkening of skin patches, gums or other areas, more likely with frequent use
- Can reduce absorption of some oral medications, such as naltrexone
How Dr. Nazarian Evaluates Low Desire
Low desire often has identifiable causes: hormone changes, thyroid problems, medications such as some antidepressants, poor sleep, stress, relationship factors or other health conditions. Evaluation includes a history, examination and targeted labs. Treating the underlying cause, including hormone evaluation through our hormone optimization care, may help more than any single medication. When bremelanotide is appropriate, it can be discussed and prescribed with clear instructions and blood pressure guidance.
See also our peptide therapy overview.
PT-141 Evaluation in Beverly Hills and Los Angeles
Patients from across Los Angeles, including Beverly Hills, Bel Air, Brentwood, Century City, West Hollywood and Santa Monica, see Dr. Nazarian confidentially at our office at 9301 Wilshire Blvd in Beverly Hills.
- Consultation. Your concerns, relationship and stress factors, sleep, and medications such as antidepressants that can lower desire.
- Blood pressure and heart review. Because bremelanotide raises blood pressure temporarily after each dose.
- Baseline labs. Typically testosterone, estradiol, prolactin, TSH and a metabolic panel to look for treatable causes.
- Benefits and risks discussion. PT-141 compared with other options for women and men.
- Follow-up. Review of response and side effects, with adjustments as needed.
Book a confidential PT-141 consultation in Beverly Hills
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I get PT-141 in Los Angeles?
At My Concierge MD in Beverly Hills, PT-141 starts with a confidential evaluation. When appropriate, Dr. Nazarian prescribes it with clear instructions and blood pressure guidance.
How much does PT-141 cost in Beverly Hills?
Cost depends on the evaluation, lab tests and whether brand-name Vyleesi or another option is used. A new-patient consultation with Dr. Nazarian is $450. Lab tests and medication are priced separately, and our team gives you those costs before testing begins.
Is PT-141 the same as Vyleesi?
Yes. PT-141 is the research name for bremelanotide, which is sold under the brand name Vyleesi.
How quickly does it work?
It is taken at least 45 minutes before sexual activity, and effects can last several hours.
Is PT-141 a nasal spray?
A nasal form was studied earlier but was dropped partly because of blood pressure effects. The approved product is an injection.
Does insurance cover it?
Coverage for Vyleesi varies by plan. Compounded versions are not covered.
To discuss low desire or sexual health, schedule a confidential consultation at My Concierge MD in Beverly Hills.
This page is educational and does not replace individual medical advice.
Medically reviewed by David Nazarian, MD on