Comparison
Exenatide vs. Bremelanotide
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Metabolic
Research other
CAS no.
141758-74-9
189691-06-3
Molecular weight
4186.6 g/mol
1025.18 g/mol
Half-life
2.4 h
2.7 h
Sequence
HGEGTFTSDLSKQMEEEAVRLFIEWLKNGGPSSGAPPPSAc-Nle-c[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-OHMechanism of action
Exenatide
Exenatide is a 39-amino-acid peptide with about 53% sequence homology to human GLP-1. A glycine substitution at position 2 prevents dipeptidyl-peptidase-IV cleavage and extends the half-life from native GLP-1 (minutes) to about 2.4 hours. GLP-1 receptor activation glucose-dependently stimulates insulin secretion, inhibits glucagon and delays gastric emptying.
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
5
5
of which in humans
4
5
Effects recorded
3
3
Open conflicts
1
0
Documented adverse events
2
2