Strategies for Treating Sexual Health Concerns After Breast and Gynecologic Cancer — VialBase Research
Sexual dysfunction is common but underrecognized after breast/gynecologic cancer treatment
- Sexual dysfunction is common but underrecognized after breast/gynecologic cancer treatment
- Bremelanotide highlighted as non-hormonal option for desire disorders in cancer survivors
- Important for patients who cannot use hormonal therapy (hormone-receptor-positive cancers)
- Genitourinary syndrome of menopause symptoms include vaginal dryness, dyspareunia, diminished desire
- Evidence-based approach to management is needed
Summary
Comprehensive literature review of sexual dysfunction as a sequela of breast and gynecologic cancer treatment. Searches PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus for studies on sexual dysfunction and cancer survivorship. Highlights bremelanotide as a non-hormonal therapeutic option for patients with desire disorders who cannot use hormonal treatments.
Key Findings
- Sexual dysfunction is highly prevalent but underrecognized in cancer survivors
- Genitourinary syndrome of menopause symptoms are common after cancer treatment
- Hormonal therapies are often contraindicated in hormone-receptor-positive cancers
- Bremelanotide offers a non-hormonal alternative acting through melanocortin CNS pathways
- Addresses both physiological and psychological aspects of sexual health
Relevance to PT-141
Identifies a critical clinical niche for PT-141/bremelanotide: cancer survivors who cannot use hormonal therapy. This is a growing population where few treatment options exist for desire disorders. PT-141’s non-hormonal, CNS-based mechanism makes it uniquely suited for this patient group. Reinforces the clinical value of the melanocortin pathway approach.
Citation
Mihulka O, et al. J Minim Invasive Gynecol. 2025 Dec 17. PMID: 41419078
See Also
- Parent compound: PT-141