As men age, maintaining optimal sexual performance becomes increasingly challenging. Erectile dysfunction ED is estimated to affect around 20% of adult males over the age of 20, and by 2025, it is projected to impact 322 million men globally. Enter PT-141 (bremelanotide) – a groundbreaking peptide therapy that is revolutionizing the approach to male sexual dysfunction.
What is PT-141?
PT-141, also known as Bremelanotide, is a synthetic peptide utilized to treat sexual dysfunction in both men and women. For men, PT-141 provides a unique solution for those facing sexual performance challenges by targeting the brain’s centers for sexual response.
This contrasts with traditional ED medications like Viagra and Cialis, which are PDE-5 inhibitors that increase blood flow to the penis. In contrast, PT-141 is a melanocortin that impacts the brain to boost sexual desire.
How does PT-141 work in your body?
Unlike traditional ED medications that primarily increase blood flow to the penis, PT-141 takes a different approach:
- Brain-Centered Action: PT-141, a synthetic hormone, works at the source of desire: the mind. This peptide activates specific receptors in the brain that naturally respond when you’re aroused.
- Dual Mechanism: PT 141 triggers nitric oxide release, which relaxes penile muscles and increases blood flow, helping men achieve an erection. Unlike other treatments that solely enhance blood flow, PT 141 also boosts sexual desire, addressing the underlying cause of low libido.
- Rapid Onset: Bremelanotide is available as a nasal spray for intranasal use, and the response to the peptide is rapid, eliciting a penile reaction within minutes.
Clinical evidence: proven results in male studies
Recent clinical trials have demonstrated PT-141’s effectiveness specifically for men:
- In both studies, the erectile response induced by PT-141 administration was statistically significant compared to placebo at doses exceeding 7 mg, with the first erection occurring roughly 30 minutes after administration.
- In the bremelanotide group, 51 subjects (34%) reported significantly better results compared to those receiving a placebo (9%), which included the ability to achieve and maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse.
Enhanced effectiveness through combination therapy
Research suggests that PT-141 can work synergistically with traditional erectile dysfunction (ED) medications. The erectile response triggered by the co-administration of PT-141 (7.5 mg) and sildenafil (25 mg) is significantly greater than that elicited by sildenafil alone.
Benefits for diabetic men
A Phase IIB trial examining the use of bremelanotide over three months in patients with diabetes-induced erectile dysfunction (ED) reported significant increases in the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) scores, offering hope for men whose diabetes has affected their sexual health.
FDA approval status and off-label use
Bremelanotide was approved for medical use in the United States in 2019 to treat hypoactive sexual desire disorder in premenopausal women. However, its use beyond this approved indication, such as for erectile dysfunction in men, is considered off-label.
What does off-label use mean?
Many medications are often prescribed off-label for conditions that exceed their original FDA approval. At Tower Urology, our experienced physicians can assess whether PT-141 is suitable for your circumstances and health profile.
How is PT-141 administered?
It should be taken at least 45 minutes before planned sexual activity. A maximum of one dose is recommended per 24 hours, or no more than eight doses per month. PT-141 can be administered using two different methods:
- Subcutaneous Injection: Currently, Bremelanotide (PT-141) is administered through a subcutaneous injection, preferably in areas with fat deposits.
- Intranasal Administration: Certain formulations enable delivery via a nasal spray.
What are the common side effects of PT-141?
It is important to be aware of potential side effects, the most common are:
- The most frequently encountered side effect of bremelanotide is nausea (40.0%), which may be intolerable to some people
- Flushing (20.3%)
- Injection site reactions (13.2%)
- Headache (11.3%)
- Vomiting (4.8%)
Who is a good candidate for PT-141?
Good candidates include:
- Men experiencing declining sexual desire with age
- Those who haven’t responded adequately to traditional ED medications
- Men seeking a more comprehensive approach to sexual health
- Individuals looking to address both physical and psychological aspects of sexual dysfunction
Who is not a good candidate for PT-141?
- Individuals with heart disease or unmanaged hypertension should refrain from taking PT-141, as it may elevate blood pressure.
- Due to its effects on blood pressure—typically a transient increase of 6 mmHg in systolic blood pressure and 3 mmHg in diastolic blood pressure—bremelanotide is considered contraindicated for individuals with uncontrolled hypertension or cardiovascular disease. The effects of bremelanotide on blood pressure (BP) have been well established in several clinical studies, which consistently show small, transient increases in BP that peak within 4 hours after dosing and return to baseline by approximately 8 to 10 hours.
What are the advantages of PT-141 over traditional ED treatments
Unique Benefits of PT-141 include:
- Addresses Root Causes: Unlike PDE-5 inhibitors that solely enhance blood flow, PT-141 addresses both desire and physical response.
- Works for Non-Responders: A study examining the combination of bremelanotide and sildenafil in men who were inadequately responsive to sildenafil alone found that the combination induced “a clinically significant enhanced erectile response.”
- Psychological Benefits: Addressing psychological factors such as stress or anxiety that may contribute to erectile dysfunction (ED)
- Enhanced Overall Well-being: The positive effects of PT 141 on sexual performance may improve overall mood, energy, and fitness levels.
Medical evaluation requirements
Before pursuing PT-141 therapy, there are a few things to consider:
- Your Health Status: Cardiovascular health is particularly important
- Previous Treatment Responses: Have traditional ED medications been effective?
- Treatment Goals: Are you seeking improved desire, physical function, or both?
- Lifestyle Factors: How important is spontaneity in your sexual health?
Before starting PT-141, Tower Urology’s board-certified urologists will evaluate:
- Your cardiovascular health
- Current medications
- Blood pressure status
- Overall health profile
- Sexual health history
Interested in trying PT-141? Here are your next steps
Given the risks and drawbacks mentioned above, along with the absence of long-term safety data on PT 141, it is essential to consult your urologist before deciding to take it. The experts at Tower Urology can help you determine whether PT-141 is suitable for your health goals and medical profile.
PT-141 signifies a significant shift in the treatment of male sexual dysfunction. By addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of sexual response, it provides hope for men who have not succeeded with traditional therapies or who desire a more comprehensive approach to sexual health.
If you’re experiencing a decline in sexual performance as you age, PT-141 may provide the solution you’ve been searching for. Reach out to Tower Urology today to schedule a consultation with our experienced team and find out if this groundbreaking treatment is right for you.
Why choose Tower Urology for PT-141 treatment in Los Angeles?
Board-certified, fellowship-trained urologists staff Tower Men’s Health. We will match you with one of our many experienced physicians to help address any concerns you may have and help you on your journey towards improved quality of life.
Comprehensive Approach
At Tower Urology, we recognize that sexual health is a multifaceted aspect of overall well-being. Our approach includes:
- Thorough medical evaluation
- Personalized treatment plans
- Ongoing monitoring and support
- Integration with other therapies when appropriate
Tower Urology’s board-certified men’s sexual health team has been a leader in effectively treating men’s sexual health issues for over two decades, comprising specialists trained in all aspects of the field.
The advantage of Tower Urology is our unwavering commitment to delivering world-class urologic care through advanced technology, personalized treatment plans, and a patient-centered approach. With a reputation for excellence and innovation, we provide superior outcomes that distinguish us as leaders in urologic health.
We invite you to experience the personalized care and expertise of Tower Urology.
Tower Urology is conveniently located for patients throughout Southern California and the Los Angeles area, including Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, West Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Culver City, Hollywood, Venice, Marina del Rey, and Downtown Los Angeles.
Sources
- Molinoff PB, Shadiack AM, Earle D, Diamond LE, Quon CY. PT-141: a melanocortin agonist for the treatment of sexual dysfunction.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12851303/ - Kingsberg SA, Clayton AH, Portman D, et al. Bremelanotide for the Treatment of Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder: Two Randomized Phase 3 Trials. Obstet Gynecol.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31599840/ - Peak TC, Yafi FA, Sangkum P, et al. The future is today: emerging drugs for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3163612/ - Yafi FA, Jenkins L, Albersen M, et al. Advances in the treatment of erectile dysfunction: what’s new and upcoming?
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4979545/ - Maximus Tribe. Everything You Need to Know About Bremelanotide (PT-141).
https://www.maximustribe.com/resources/Everything-need-know-PT-141 - DrugBank Online. Bremelanotide: Uses, Interactions, Mechanism of Action.
https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB11653 - Clayton AH, Lucas J, Kroll R, et al. Long-Term Safety and Efficacy of Bremelanotide for Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6819023/
