Peptides for male sexual dysfunction: a systematic review of emerging evidence.

In 30 seconds

This PRISMA-guided systematic review assessed human studies of peptide-based therapies for male sexual function, reproductive hormones, and semen parameters. Twelve studies involving 372 men evaluated melanocortin receptor agonists, kisspeptin analogues, and oxytocin. Melanocortin agonists had the most consistent evidence, with significant increases in penile rigidity and erectile duration reported in healthy men and men with erectile dysfunction, including sildenafil non-responders. Kisspeptin showed effects on gonadotropin secretion, sexual processing, tumescence, and desire, whereas oxytocin findings were mixed. The authors conclude that evidence remains limited and does not yet support routine clinical use.

Key findings

• Twelve studies comprising 372 male participants met the review’s inclusion criteria.
• Melanocortin receptor agonists produced significant increases in penile rigidity and erectile duration across studied groups, including sildenafil non-responders.
• Kisspeptin increased gonadotropin secretion and was associated with improved penile tumescence and measures of sexual desire.
• Oxytocin had mixed effects, with no consistent improvement in erectile function, ejaculation latency, or semen parameters.

Why it matters

The review suggests that peptide therapies may affect male sexual health through different erectile, central, endocrine, and relational pathways. This broadens the range of mechanisms under investigation, particularly for erectile outcomes and sexual desire. However, the findings are preliminary; distinguishing which patients may benefit and whether effects are durable requires stronger comparative evidence.

What to keep in mind

The evidence base was limited by small study samples, heterogeneous populations, short follow-up, and a lack of comparative studies.