Curriculum
Module 09 · 35 min

Melanocortins: PT-141 & Melanotan

Sex, tan, and centrally acting agonists.

ClinicalAdvanced
Core topics

What's covered

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Learning objectives

By the end of this module you will be able to

  • L01State FDA-approved melanocortin therapeutics and their indications.
  • L02Explain why melanotan-II is a public-health concern.
Expected takeaways

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Lesson · Core emphasis

What this means for you

Patient summary

Melanocortin medications act on receptors in the brain and skin. One (Vyleesi) is approved for low sexual desire in premenopausal women. Another (Imcivree) treats rare genetic obesity. The 'tanning peptide' melanotan-II sold online is unapproved and linked to skin cancer concerns.

Clinician summary

Bremelanotide: SC 1.75 mg PRN ≥45 min before sexual activity, max 1/24h, 8/month. Hypertensive episodes — avoid in uncontrolled HTN/CV disease.

Advanced note

Setmelanotide demonstrates the proof-of-concept for receptor-targeted obesity therapy in monogenic disease; bivamelagon and others extending the platform.

Evidence-graded claims

What the data say

A
Setmelanotide produces meaningful weight loss in POMC, PCSK1, LEPR deficiency
Phase 3 pivotal trials.
B
Melanotan-II is associated with new atypical naevi and melanoma case reports
Multiple case reports/series; no RCT.
Quick check

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Q1Bremelanotide is approved for:
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Setmelanotide indication?
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References · 3

Sources cited in this module

  1. [1]
    IMCIVREE (setmelanotide) Prescribing Information
    FDA Label · 2020Regulatory · T1
  2. [2]
    VYLEESI (bremelanotide) Prescribing Information
    FDA Label · 2019Regulatory · T1
  3. [3]
    Changes in moles linked to use of unlicensed 'sun tan jab'
    Langan EA. et al. · BMJ · 2009Case series · T3
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