Comparison
Carbetocin vs. Bremelanotide
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Research other
Research other
CAS no.
37025-55-1
189691-06-3
Molecular weight
no data
1025.18 g/mol
Half-life
0.67 h
2.7 h
Sequence
no data
Ac-Nle-c[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-OHMechanism of action
Carbetocin
Carbetocin is an oxytocin receptor agonist with prolonged duration. It triggers a sustained contraction of the uterus after birth, preventing atonic hemorrhage — unlike oxytocin, without a multi-hour infusion.
Bremelanotide
Bremelanotide is a cyclic peptide that binds non-selectively to melanocortin receptors (MC1R through MC5R) — with highest affinity at MC4R in the central nervous system. The precise role of MC4R activation in sexual behaviour is not fully understood; animal data show effects on hypothalamic circuits. Peripheral effects (blood pressure, hyperpigmentation) are attributed to MC1R/MC2R.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human RCT
Studies
1
5
of which in humans
1
5
Effects recorded
2
3
Open conflicts
0
1
Documented adverse events
1
2
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Carbetocin and Bremelanotide?
- Carbetocin is classified as "Research other", while Bremelanotide is classified as "Research other". Carbetocin: Carbetocin is a long-acting synthetic oxytocin analog (half-life ~40 minutes). It prevents postpartum hemorrhage as a single injection. Approved in Canada and the UK among others, NOT in the US. Bremelanotide: Synthetic cyclic heptapeptide acting as a non-selective melanocortin-receptor agonist. FDA-approved in 2019 as Vyleesi for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in pre-menopausal women. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Carbetocin or Bremelanotide?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Carbetocin and "Human RCT" for Bremelanotide. A higher evidence level means more robust data, but says nothing about suitability for an individual. The full body of evidence is on each peptide's own page.
- What is the legal status of Carbetocin and Bremelanotide in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Carbetocin — Prescription, Bremelanotide — Unapproved. United States: Carbetocin — Unapproved, Bremelanotide — Prescription. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.