Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone vs Bremelanotide
The core melanocortin ligand — pigment, appetite, inflammation. An FDA-approved melanocortin agonist for hypoactive sexual desire. Side by side: type, evidence tier, receptor, molecular weight, and half-life — the same fields as each monograph, rearranged so the engineering difference is visible.
Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone α-MSH | Bremelanotide PT-141 | |
|---|---|---|
| Also known as | — | Vyleesi |
| Type | Endogenous | Analog |
| Evidence | Established | Clinical |
| Family | Melanocortins | Melanocortins |
| Class | POMC-derived peptide (13 aa) | Cyclic heptapeptide melanocortin agonist (α-MSH analog) |
| Receptor | Melanocortin receptors MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R | Melanocortin receptors (MC4R, with MC1R activity) |
| Molecular weight | ~1,664.9 Da | ~1,025.2 Da |
| Half-life | ||
| Based on | Native hormone | Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone |
Half-life bars are on a logarithmic scale across the molecules shown. Reference values for the native or representative form — educational only, not medical or dosing advice.
Common questions
- What is the difference between Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone and Bremelanotide?
- Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone is an endogenous hormone; Bremelanotide is an engineered analog based on Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone. Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone signals at Melanocortin receptors MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R; Bremelanotide signals at Melanocortin receptors (MC4R, with MC1R activity).
- How do the half-lives of α-MSH and PT-141 compare?
- The reported circulating half-life of Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone is ~minutes (very short); Bremelanotide is ~2.5-3 h. These are reference values for the native or representative form — educational only, not dosing advice.
Prefer the other order? Bremelanotide vs Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone. Or open the interactive comparison tool to add more molecules.