Certain supplements have shown potential in improving libido based on preliminary research. Here are some of the most commonly referenced:

1. Ginseng: Particularly Korean Red Ginseng, has been traditionally used to enhance sexual function and has shown some positive effects in research studies¹.
2. Maca: A root vegetable from Peru, often called "Peruvian ginseng," which may help with sexual desire and performance¹.
3. Ginkgo Biloba: Known for its positive effects on circulation, Ginkgo Biloba may help with sexual function due to improved blood flow².

Other supplements such as saw palmetto, while sometimes claimed to enhance libido, lack strong scientific backing for these claims². Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if there are underlying health conditions or other medications being taken.

Footnotes

1. Sabna Kotta, "Exploring scientifically proven herbal aphrodisiacs," PMC, 2012. ↩ ↩²

2. Dana Sparks, "Home Remedies: Do natural aphrodisiacs work?" Mayo Clinic News Network, 2018. ↩ ↩²

PT-141, also known as Bremelanotide, is a melanocortin receptor agonist used to treat hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women. It works by activating melanocortin pathways in the brain that influence sexual responses, which sets it apart from other treatments like PDE-5 inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil) that target vascular components of erectile dysfunction¹²³.

Efficacy and Administration:

• PT-141 can be administered as a subcutaneous injection or intranasally.
• The typical dosage is 1.75 mg injected subcutaneously about 45 minutes before anticipated sexual activity.
• Clinical studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in improving sexual desire and reducing distress associated with low libido in women¹⁴.

Safety and Side Effects:

• Common side effects include nausea, flushing, and headache¹.
• It is contraindicated in individuals with uncontrolled hypertension or cardiovascular disease due to potential effects on blood pressure and heart rate².
• Long-term studies have shown it to be safe with sustained efficacy for HSDD⁴.

The use of PT-141 in men for sexual dysfunction has also been explored, although it is not currently approved for this use. Studies have shown promising results for male erectile dysfunction, specifically in cases non-responsive to traditional treatments¹⁵.

Footnotes

1. Anita H Clayton, "Bremelanotide for Female Sexual Dysfunctions in Premenopausal Women: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Dose-Finding Trial," PMC, 2016. ↩ ↩² ↩³ ↩⁴

2. Amber N. Edinoff, "Bremelanotide for Treatment of Female Hypoactive Sexual Desire," PMC, 2022. ↩ ↩²

3. Mayo Clinic, "Bremelanotide (Subcutaneous Route) Side Effects," Mayo Clinic. ↩

4. James A. Simon, "Long-Term Safety and Efficacy of Bremelanotide for Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder," PMC, 2019. ↩ ↩²

5. Stephen H. King, "Melanocortin Receptors, Melanotropic Peptides and Penile Erection," PMC. ↩