Yes, Bremelanotide (Vyleesi) and PT-141 Are the Same Compound
Bremelanotide is the generic pharmaceutical name for the compound that was previously known by its research designation PT-141. 1 The FDA-approved drug Vyleesi contains bremelanotide as its active ingredient—a synthetic, cyclic heptapeptide melanocortin receptor agonist. 1
Chemical Identity
The compound is chemically described as: Ac-Nle-cyclo-(Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys-OH), with molecular formula C₅₀H₆₈N₁₄O₁₀. 1 This is the same molecular structure whether referred to as PT-141 (the research/developmental name) or bremelanotide (the official pharmaceutical name).
Nomenclature Evolution
- PT-141 was the designation used during early clinical development and research phases 2
- Bremelanotide became the official generic drug name upon FDA approval
- Vyleesi is the brand name for the FDA-approved subcutaneous formulation 1
Clinical Context
Bremelanotide/PT-141 is FDA-approved for treating acquired, generalized hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women. 3 It functions as a melanocortin receptor agonist, nonselectively activating several receptor subtypes (MC1R, MC4R, MC3R, MC5R, MC2R), with MC4R binding being most relevant at therapeutic doses. 1
The compound has been studied in both males and females for sexual dysfunction, though FDA approval is specifically for premenopausal women with HSDD. 2, 4
Important Distinction
While the chemical compound is identical, only the FDA-approved formulation (Vyleesi) should be used clinically—not compounded versions or research-grade PT-141, which lack quality control and standardized dosing. 1