From the Research
PT-141 can potentially cause high blood pressure as a side effect, and individuals with uncontrolled hypertension, cardiovascular disease, or those taking medications that affect blood pressure should exercise caution when using this medication. This medication, which is FDA-approved under the brand name Vyleesi for hypoactive sexual desire disorder in premenopausal women, works by activating melanocortin receptors in the brain. When PT-141 is administered, some users experience a temporary increase in blood pressure, typically peaking within the first few hours after injection. The blood pressure elevation is usually transient but can be significant in some individuals.
Key Considerations
- People with uncontrolled hypertension, cardiovascular disease, or those taking medications that affect blood pressure should be particularly cautious with PT-141 use.
- The mechanism behind this blood pressure increase relates to PT-141's effects on the autonomic nervous system and vascular tone regulation.
- If you're considering using PT-141, it's essential to monitor your blood pressure before and after administration, start with the lowest effective dose (typically 1.75 mg injected subcutaneously), and consult with a healthcare provider first, especially if you have any cardiovascular risk factors or are taking other medications.
- According to a recent study 1, heart rate-lowering drugs can have benefits on cardiovascular outcomes, but the effects of PT-141 on heart rate and blood pressure are not well-studied in this context.
Management and Prevention
- Monitoring blood pressure before and after PT-141 administration is crucial to identify potential increases in blood pressure.
- Starting with the lowest effective dose and consulting with a healthcare provider can help minimize the risk of high blood pressure.
- Individuals with cardiovascular risk factors or those taking medications that affect blood pressure should be closely monitored when using PT-141.
- As noted in a study on anti-hypertensive medications 2, the association between these medications and cardiovascular events in older adults with multiple chronic conditions is complex, and similar considerations may apply to PT-141 use.