Comparison
Bremelanotide vs. Vasopressin
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
no data
Molecular weight
1025.18 g/mol
1084.23 g/mol
Half-life
2.7 h
no data
Sequence
Ac-Nle-c[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-OHno data
Mechanism 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.
Vasopressin
Vasopressin binds V1 receptors (vasoconstriction, raising vascular resistance) and V2 receptors (renal water reabsorption via aquaporin channels). This raises blood pressure and acts antidiuretically. Desmopressin is the V2-selective synthetic analog.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human RCT
Studies
5
0
of which in humans
5
0
Effects recorded
3
2
Open conflicts
1
0
Documented adverse events
2
1
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Bremelanotide and Vasopressin?
- Bremelanotide is classified as "Research other", while Vasopressin 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. Vasopressin: Vasopressin (arginine vasopressin, antidiuretic hormone/ADH) is a cyclic nonapeptide hormone that regulates water balance and vascular tone. As Vasostrict it is approved to raise blood pressure in vasodilatory shock. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Bremelanotide or Vasopressin?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Bremelanotide and "Human RCT" for Vasopressin. 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 Vasopressin in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Bremelanotide — Unapproved, Vasopressin — Prescription. United States: Bremelanotide — Prescription, Vasopressin — Prescription. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.