Comparison
Lanreotid vs. Bremelanotide
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Research other
Research other
CAS no.
108736-35-2
189691-06-3
Molecular weight
1096.34 g/mol
1025.18 g/mol
Half-life
no data
2.7 h
Sequence
no data
Ac-Nle-c[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-OHMechanism of action
Lanreotid
Lanreotide activates somatostatin receptors (chiefly SSTR2, additionally SSTR5), thereby suppressing the release of growth hormone, IGF-1 and various gastrointestinal and neuroendocrine hormones. It is metabolically far more stable than natural somatostatin.
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
1
1
Documented adverse events
2
2
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Lanreotid and Bremelanotide?
- Lanreotid is classified as "Research other", while Bremelanotide is classified as "Research other". Lanreotid: Lanreotide is a synthetic cyclic octapeptide analog of somatostatin. It binds preferentially to the somatostatin receptors SSTR2 and SSTR5 and is approved for treating acromegaly and certain neuroendocrine tumours. 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, Lanreotid or Bremelanotide?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Lanreotid 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 Lanreotid and Bremelanotide in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Lanreotid — Prescription, Bremelanotide — Unapproved. United States: Lanreotid — Prescription, Bremelanotide — Prescription. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.