Study summary
PT-141 (bremelanotide): what the RECONNECT trials reported
Bremelanotide went through phase 3 trials for low sexual desire in women and was approved in the US in 2019. Here is what was measured.
Veritide Research · 26 September 2026 · 4 min read
PT-141, known in medical literature as bremelanotide, acts on melanocortin receptors in the brain. It was developed from melanotan II, an earlier tanning research compound.
What the trials measured
- Two phase 3 trials, called RECONNECT, enrolled premenopausal women diagnosed with hypoactive sexual desire disorder.
- Investigators reported small but statistically significant improvements in self-reported desire and reduced distress compared with placebo over 24 weeks.
- Nausea was the most common side effect. Flushing, headache and temporary rises in blood pressure were also reported.
Putting it in context
The measured differences from placebo were modest, and the trials studied one defined group of patients. Approval in the US applies only to that group under prescription; it is not evidence for other uses.
PT-141 is not licensed as a medicine in the United Kingdom. It holds no MHRA marketing authorisation and is not approved for human or animal use here.
Compounds referenced
Reference profiles: mechanism, published evidence and UK regulatory status.
Reference materials mentioned here
For laboratory research use only. Not a medicine and not for human or animal use.
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Sources
Published for research and educational reference only. Not medical advice. No dosing, administration or acquisition guidance is provided.
