Comparison
Lixisenatide vs. Bremelanotide
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Metabolic
Research other
CAS no.
320367-13-3
189691-06-3
Molecular weight
4858.5 g/mol
1025.18 g/mol
Half-life
3 h
2.7 h
Sequence
HGEGTFTSDLSKQMEEEAVRLFIEWLKNGGPSSGAPPSKKKKKK-NH2Ac-Nle-c[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-OHMechanism of action
Lixisenatide
Lixisenatide is a 44-amino-acid peptide based on exendin-4 (see exenatide) with six additional lysine residues at the C-terminus. This modification increases stability against DPP-4 degradation. The short half-life (~3 hours) and plasma peak around mealtime explain the predominantly prandial effect — stronger postprandial glucose action, weaker fasting glucose effect than weekly GLP-1 RAs.
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
5
5
Effects recorded
3
3
Open conflicts
1
0
Documented adverse events
1
2