Sexual Function Peptides
Affects sexual health and function
Sexual health peptides affect libido, arousal, and sexual function through the melanocortin system in the brain rather than through vascular mechanisms like PDE5 inhibitors (Viagra, Cialis). PT-141 (bremelanotide) is the most well-known, working by activating MC4 receptors in the hypothalamus to increase sexual desire and arousal. It was FDA-approved in 2019 as Vyleesi for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women.
Melanotan II also activates melanocortin receptors and produces sexual arousal as a side effect alongside its tanning effects, though it is not approved for either use. Kisspeptin, a hormone involved in reproductive signaling, is being researched for its effects on sexual arousal and fertility. These peptides address desire and arousal at the neurological level, making them fundamentally different from drugs that only improve blood flow.
This page collects every peptide on PeptideWiki tagged for sexual function. Browse individual profiles for mechanisms, dosing, and safety data.
Peptides (4)
Melanotan II
Melanotan II is a synthetic version of alpha-MSH, a natural hormone involved in skin pigmentation. It activates hormone receptors involved in skin color and sexual function, and is being studied for both tanning and sexual health applications.
PT-141 (Bremelanotide)
PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is a hormone receptor activator that works directly in the brain, unlike blood flow-based medications for sexual dysfunction. It is FDA-approved as Vyleesi for treating hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women.
Kisspeptin-10
Kisspeptin is a brain signaling peptide that plays a critical role in reproductive hormone regulation. It works upstream of GnRH to control the hormone signaling chain between the brain and reproductive organs. It is being studied for fertility and puberty disorders.
Gonadorelin (GnRH)
Gonadorelin is a synthetic form of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), a key reproductive signaling hormone. It is used diagnostically and therapeutically for fertility assessment, low hormone levels, and to maintain testicular function during testosterone replacement therapy.