Comparison
DSIP vs. Bremelanotide
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Research other
Research other
CAS no.
62568-57-4
189691-06-3
Molecular weight
848.81 g/mol
1025.18 g/mol
Half-life
0.1 h
2.7 h
Sequence
Trp-Ala-Gly-Gly-Asp-Ala-Ser-Gly-GluAc-Nle-c[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-OHMechanism of action
DSIP
DSIP was described in 1977 by the Schoenenberger-Monnier group in Basel as a blood-borne substance reported to induce EEG changes similar to delta sleep in animal models. The exact mechanism remains undefined to this day: no defined receptor, proposed modulation of opioid, GABAergic and glutamatergic systems. Most mechanistic findings stem from preclinical studies of the 1980s and 1990s and were later subjected to contested replication attempts.
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 trial
Human RCT
Studies
4
5
of which in humans
1
5
Effects recorded
3
3
Open conflicts
1
1
Documented adverse events
1
2
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between DSIP and Bremelanotide?
- DSIP is classified as "Research other", while Bremelanotide is classified as "Research other". DSIP: Synthetic nonapeptide isolated in 1977 by Guido Monnier and Marcel Schoenenberger from the blood of rabbits in delta sleep. Despite the name, the role in sleep regulation is contested and not confirmed by Western RCTs in larger populations. 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, DSIP or Bremelanotide?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human trial" for DSIP 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 DSIP and Bremelanotide in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: DSIP — Unapproved, Bremelanotide — Unapproved. United States: DSIP — Unapproved, Bremelanotide — Prescription. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.