Peptide Series: Part 6- Sexual Health Peptides
Important Note: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or guidance. Some peptides discussed may or may not be approved by the FDA for human use. Dosing references are based on anecdotal reports from research communities and are not recommendations. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health-related decisions. This is for informational purposed only.
In the world of regenerative medicine, peptides are gaining attention for everything from anti-aging and fat loss to sleep and immune function. But one of the most often under-discussed uses of peptides lies in the area of sexual health.
Whether you're struggling with low libido, erectile dysfunction, vaginal dryness, or simply want to enhance intimacy and pleasure, sexual health peptides may offer a promising, science-backed solution.
In this post, we’ll explore what sexual health peptides are, how they work, the key types in use today, and what you need to know before considering them.
Unlike synthetic drugs, many peptides mimic natural processes in the body, making them a more biologically harmonious option with fewer systemic side effects.
Sexual Health Is Not Just Physical, It’s Neurological and Hormonal
Sexual desire, arousal, and satisfaction are influenced by complex interactions between the brain, hormones, nervous system, and vascular system. That's why issues like stress, low testosterone/estrogen, poor circulation, and even sleep deprivation can sabotage your sex life.
Peptides target these interconnected systems, especially in the brain (the hypothalamus and pituitary gland), to restore natural sexual function and enhance pleasure.
Top 5 Peptides for Sexual Health (For Men & Women)
PT-141 (Bremelanotide)
Kisspeptin
Oxytocin
CJC-1295 / Ipamorelin Combo
Melanotan II (MT-II)
Let’s break them down.
1. PT-141 (Bremelanotide)
What it is:
PT-141 is a synthetic peptide developed from melanotan II, originally researched for tanning effects. It activates melanocortin receptors in the brain that are involved in sexual arousal. It works in both men and women to increase libido, arousal, and sexual satisfaction.
How it works:
PT-141 works through the nervous system, stimulating pathways in the hypothalamus that influence libido. By engaging the melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R), it enhances sexual motivation and responsiveness making it unique among treatments for low libido. It works by acting directly on the brain, rather than by altering hormone levels. This central (brain-based) mechanism means it can enhance sexual arousal even in people whose hormone levels, like testosterone or estrogen, are already normal. PT-141 begins working within about 45 minutes to an hour, with effects lasting up to 12 hours.
It may be a safer alternative to Viagra for individuals with cardiovascular concerns, as it works through the nervous system rather than affecting blood flow directly. It can have an effect on blood pressure and heart rate (see below).
Use:
Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) in Premenopausal Women
FDA-approved to treat low sexual desire not caused by medical or psychiatric conditions.
Off-label Uses (less common and experimental):
Low libido in men and postmenopausal women
Erectile dysfunction (though other drugs like Viagra are more common)
Sexual dysfunction related to antidepressant use or other medications
Status:
PT-141 has FDA approval for female sexual dysfunction (under the brand name Vyleesi) and has shown positive results in improving male erectile function and desire.
How is it administered:
Subcutaneous injection 30-60 minutes before sexual activity
Early studies tested PT-141 as a nasal spray, but it showed inconsistent absorption and side effects like nasal irritation.
Side effects:
Nausea (very common)
Flushing
Headache
Cough
Increased blood pressure (transient- peaks 2-4 hours post injection, but can remain high for up to 12 hours- avoid if have uncontrolled hypertension)
Decreased heart rate (this can happen alongside the increased blood pressure)
Skin or gum hyperpigmentation (with chronic use- can be permanent)
Fatigue or dizziness
Anxiety (rare)
*Take with food and hydrate well to lessen side effects.
How to purchase:
You can purchase Vyleesi through www.vyleesi.com. You complete a health questionnaire, pay $29-$49 and the doctor will email you the approval and then you will be connected to the pharmacy.
Healthcare providers that work with compounding pharmacies
*It is also sold as a “research” chemical through online suppliers. These are not FDA-approved and are not regulated.
2. Kisspeptin
What it is:
Kisspeptin is a naturally occurring peptide involved in the regulation of the reproductive hormone axis (hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis).
How it works:
It works by stimulating the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus, which in turn triggers the pituitary gland to release luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). These hormones are critical for the production of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, and for maintaining reproductive function.
Promotes natural production of testosterone and estrogen
May restore hormonal balance in cases of sexual dysfunction due to low sex hormone levels
Use:
Boosts natural libido
Supports fertility in both men and women
May improve mood and sexual motivation
Status:
Still under clinical investigation, but early human trials show promise, particularly in cases of hypogonadism and hormone-related libido issues.
How is it administered:
Subcutaneous injection: The most typical route
Intravenous injection: Used mainly in research or specialized fertility treatments under strict medical supervision.
Dosing frequency and amount vary depending on the treatment goal (fertility protocols vs. experimental libido support).
Oral forms of kisspeptin are not widely available or effective because the peptide would be broken down in the digestive system.
Side effects:
Flushing or warmth (similar to a mild hot flash)
Headache
Nausea
Injection site reactions (redness, swelling if given via injection)
Dizziness or lightheadedness (rare)
Mood changes or irritability (possible, given effects on neuroendocrine pathways)
May affect menstrual cycles or hormone balance temporarily due to the stimulation of the release of gonadotropins (LH and FSH)
How to Purchase:
Licenses healthcare providers, often those at peptide clinics or Telehealth clinics
*It is also sold as a “research” chemical through online suppliers. These are not FDA-approved and are not regulated.
3. Oxytocin
What it is:
Oxytocin is often called the “love hormone” due to its powerful role in promoting bonding, emotional intimacy, and sexual connection. It’s a naturally occurring hormone released during touch, orgasm, childbirth, and breastfeeding. It is now being used therapeutically to support emotional well-being and enhance intimacy.
How it works:
Oxytocin influences the brain’s emotional centers, helping improve connection, trust, and physical closeness. It may support:
Enhanced emotional bonding and trust during intimacy
Improved orgasm intensity and frequency
Reduced anxiety and improved overall mood
More balanced social and emotional processing
Use:
Low libido or difficulty with arousal
Difficulty with orgasm
Emotional disconnection or relationship strain
Social anxiety or general anxiety
Postpartum support
Autism spectrum or attachment disorders (experimental)
Trauma or PTSD (emerging research)
Status:
Oxytocin is not FDA-approved for mood or intimacy purposes, but it is commonly used off-label under the guidance of licensed healthcare professionals, especially in functional medicine, hormone therapy, and sexual wellness practices.
How is it administered:
Nasal spray – for quick absorption into the bloodstream
Sublingual troche – dissolves under the tongue for systemic effect
Both forms are generally used before intimate connection or during emotionally stressful periods, depending on the therapeutic goal.
Side Effects:
Most people tolerate oxytocin well. Possible side effects may include:
Headache
Mild drowsiness
Nausea
Nasal irritation (if using spray)
Rare mood swings if overused
Always start with a low dose under professional guidance, as effects can be subtle or vary depending on emotional context.
How to Purchase:
Licenses healthcare providers, often those at peptide clinics or Telehealth clinics
*It is also sold as a “research” chemical through online suppliers. These are not FDA-approved and are not regulated.
4. CJC-1295 / Ipamorelin Combo
What they are:
These peptides stimulate growth hormone release, which indirectly supports testosterone production, energy, recovery, and overall vitality.
How this combination works:
CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin work synergistically to stimulate the pituitary gland to release more natural growth hormone in a controlled and sustained manner. Unlike synthetic HGH, this combination encourages your body to regulate its own hormone production, which reduces the risk of side effects and maintains physiological balance.
Uses:
Support for growth hormone optimization
Improved sleep quality and recovery
Increased lean muscle mass
Enhanced fat metabolism
Improved skin elasticity and hair quality
Support for anti-aging and cellular repair
Boosted energy and stamina
Improved cognitive clarity and mood
Status:
CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin are not FDA-approved for anti-aging or performance enhancement purposes. However, they are commonly used off-label under medical supervision in functional medicine and hormone optimization practices.
How is it administered:
Subcutaneous injection once daily, often at night to align with the body’s natural growth hormone release.
Some protocols may alternate dosing days or adjust frequency based on individual goals and lab results.
Side Effects:
Mild water retention or bloating
Temporary injection site redness or irritation
Headache or lightheadedness
Tingling or numbness in extremities (rare)
Increased hunger
How to Purchase:
Licenses healthcare providers, often those at peptide clinics or Telehealth clinics
*It is also sold as a “research” chemical through online suppliers. These are not FDA-approved and are not regulated.
5. Melanotan II (MT-II)
Note: MT-II is the parent compound of PT-141.
How it works:
Stimulates melanocortin receptors (same pathway as PT-141)
Increases sexual arousal and spontaneous erections
Commonly used off-label for both tanning and libido enhancement
Use:
Libido enhancement
Erectile dysfunction support
Skin tanning (off-label and cosmetic use)
Research interest in sexual dysfunction and melanocortin pathway disorders
Status:
Melanotan II is not FDA-approved. It is considered a research peptide and is used off-label under medical supervision. It is not legally marketed as a supplement or cosmetic product in the U.S.
How is it administered:
Subcutaneous injection, typically once daily or several times per week.
Dosage is often titrated slowly to minimize side effects.
It is commonly used on a short-term basis or cycled based on treatment goals.
Side effects:
Nausea
Facial flushing
Increased blood pressure
Darkening of moles and freckles
Increased skin pigmentation (especially in lighter-skinned individuals)
Decreased appetite
Fatigue or yawning
How to Purchase:
Licenses healthcare providers, often those at peptide clinics or Telehealth clinics
*It is also sold as a “research” chemical through online suppliers. These are not FDA-approved and are not regulated.
Caution:
Melanotan II can have stronger side effects than PT-141
Sexual health peptides may be worth considering if you:
Have low libido (with no clear cause)
Experience erectile dysfunction or vaginal dryness
Want to improve intimacy or connection in your relationship
Prefer natural, biologically-aligned approaches to sexual wellness
Sexual health is a vital part of overall well-being. Whether you’re recovering from hormonal changes (like menopause), dealing with stress-related dysfunction, or simply want to enhance your intimate life, peptides may offer a safe and effective solution.
However, they’re not a one-size-fits-all fix. The best approach is personalized, combining peptide therapy with lifestyle support: sleep, nutrition, stress management, and communication.
Up next: Peptide Series: Part 7: Growth Hormone Peptides (The Basics)