Male sexual dysfunction affects 50% of men over 40 and includes erectile dysfunction (ED), low libido, performance anxiety, and premature ejaculation. While Viagra and Cialis are effective for ED, peptides offer alternatives that work through different mechanisms.
This guide covers evidence-based peptide protocols for men's sexual health, including brain-based options that don't carry cardiovascular risks.
| Type | Symptoms | Prevalence | Best Peptides |
|---|---|---|---|
| Erectile Dysfunction | Difficulty achieving or maintaining erections | 40% (age 40+) | PT-141, Melanotan-II |
| Low Libido | Reduced sexual desire or interest | 15-20% | PT-141, Kisspeptin, Gonadorelin |
| Performance Anxiety | Psychological ED, stress-related dysfunction | 10-25% | PT-141, Oxytocin |
| Low Testosterone | Fatigue, low libido, ED, reduced muscle mass | 20% (age 60+) | Kisspeptin, Gonadorelin |
Male sexual dysfunction is multifactorial:
Brain-based erections without cardiovascular risks
Side effects: Nausea (30%), flushing (15%), temporary blood pressure increase. Less severe than in women.
Best for: Men who can't use PDE5 inhibitors due to heart disease, or those with psychological ED.
Potent erection enhancement, use with caution
Priapism risk: Erections lasting >4 hours require immediate medical attention. Start with low doses.
Stimulates natural testosterone production
Best for: Men with low-normal testosterone who want to optimize natural production.
Pulsatile GnRH for testosterone restoration
Addresses both desire and hormonal optimization
Reduces anxiety while enhancing arousal
Best for: Men whose ED is primarily psychological or stress-related.
| Treatment | Mechanism | Efficacy | Onset | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PT-141 | Brain melanocortin receptors | 60-80% | 1-4 hours | Safe with heart disease, increases desire |
| Viagra (Sildenafil) | PDE5 inhibition (blood vessels) | 70-85% | 30-60 min | Well-established, reliable, fast-acting |
| Cialis (Tadalafil) | PDE5 inhibition (blood vessels) | 75-85% | 30-60 min | 36-hour duration, daily dosing option |
| Melanotan-II | Brain melanocortin receptors | 80-90% | 2-4 hours | Very potent, spontaneous erections |
| Trimix Injection | Direct penile injection | 90%+ | 5-15 min | Most effective for severe ED |
Peptides are ideal when:
PT-141 can be safely combined with Viagra/Cialis for synergistic effects: