Comparison
Bremelanotide vs. Sincalide
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Research other
Research other
CAS no.
189691-06-3
25126-32-3
Molecular weight
1025.18 g/mol
1143.29 g/mol
Half-life
2.7 h
no data
Sequence
Ac-Nle-c[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-OHAsp-Tyr(SO3H)-Met-Gly-Trp-Met-Asp-Phe-NH2Mechanism of action
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.
Sincalide
Sincalide activates CCK receptors, triggering gallbladder contraction and pancreatic enzyme secretion. This effect is used diagnostically to measure the gallbladder ejection fraction (e.g. in HIDA scintigraphy).
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human trial
Studies
5
0
of which in humans
5
0
Effects recorded
3
1
Open conflicts
1
0
Documented adverse events
2
1
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Bremelanotide and Sincalide?
- Bremelanotide is classified as "Research other", while Sincalide is classified as "Research other". 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. Sincalide: Sincalide is the synthetic C-terminal octapeptide of the hormone cholecystokinin (CCK-8). As Kinevac it is FDA-approved to stimulate gallbladder contraction for diagnostic imaging. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Bremelanotide or Sincalide?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Bremelanotide and "Human trial" for Sincalide. 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 Bremelanotide and Sincalide in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Bremelanotide — Unapproved, Sincalide — Unclear. United States: Bremelanotide — Prescription, Sincalide — Prescription. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.