MK-677
Clinical TrialsIbutamoren Mesylate
An oral growth hormone secretagogue (technically a small molecule, not a peptide). Researched for GH and IGF-1 elevation, muscle mass, sleep quality, and bone density.
Dose
10-25 mg
Route
Oral
Cycle
12-16 weeks
Storage
Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight.
What is MK-677?
MK-677, also known as Ibutamoren, is a potent, orally active, non-peptide growth hormone secretagogue. It acts as a ghrelin receptor agonist, mimicking the action of the endogenous hormone ghrelin. In research contexts, it is commonly explored for its ability to stimulate the pituitary gland to secrete growth hormone (GH), which in turn leads to increased levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). This mechanism of action has led to research into its potential applications in areas such as muscle mass development, bone density, and sleep quality.
Key Benefits
- Oral GH stimulation
- IGF-1 increase
- Muscle mass support
- Improved deep sleep
- Bone density research
- Appetite stimulation
Mechanism of Action
- Ghrelin receptor agonist
- Oral bioavailability
- Stimulates pituitary GH release
- Long half-life for sustained effect
Best For
- GH research without injections
- Body composition
- Sleep research
- Bone health
Body Systems
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Molecular Information
Molecular weight
528.66 g/mol
Type
Small Molecule, Growth Hormone Secretagogue
Pharmacokinetics
Time to peak
2-4 hours
Half-life
24 h
Time to clear
Approximately 5 days (after cessation of chronic administration)
Thorner, M. O., et al. (1998). The effects of a novel, orally active growth hormone secretagogue (MK-0677) on growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor-I levels in healthy young adults. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 83(10), 3612-3619.
Research Indications
Sustained GH Secretion
MK-677 is widely researched for its ability to increase pulsatile growth hormone secretion and sustain elevated plasma growth hormone concentrations over a 24-hour period.
IGF-1 Increase
Research consistently demonstrates significant and sustained increases in circulating Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1) levels, often by 40-90% above baseline with chronic administration.
Research Protocols
| Goal | Dose | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| General GH/IGF-1 Elevation & Body Composition | 10-25 mg | Once daily | Oral |
| Sleep Quality Improvement | 10-20 mg | Once daily (pre-bedtime) | Oral |
| Initial Assessment & Sensitivity | 5-10 mg | Once daily | Oral |
| Extended-term Bone Density Research (in specific populations) | 25 mg | Once daily | Oral |
| Appetite Stimulation Research | 10-20 mg | Once daily | Oral |
Oral administration typically occurs once daily, often at night, due to potential sedative effects and alignment with natural GH pulsatile release patterns.
Peptide Interactions
- Monitor Combination
Insulin Sensitizers (e.g., Metformin)
Given MK-677's potential to decrease insulin sensitivity and increase fasting glucose, co-administration with insulin sensitizers may require careful monitoring of glucose levels and adjustment of dosages.
- Use Caution
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are known to antagonize the effects of growth hormone. Co-administration may reduce the desired GH-elevating effects of MK-677 and could exacerbate any metabolic side effects.
- Compatible
Thyroid Hormones
No direct contraindications or significant interactions are widely reported, but optimal thyroid function is important for overall metabolic health, including GH axis function.
- Avoid
Ghrelin Receptor Antagonists
As MK-677 is a ghrelin receptor agonist, co-administration with antagonists would directly counteract its mechanism of action, rendering it ineffective.
- Monitor Combination
Other Growth Hormone Secretagogues (GHRH analogs, GHRPs)
While potentially synergistic in theory, combining different GH secretagogues can lead to excessive GH/IGF-1 elevation and an increased risk of side effects. Research protocols typically involve a single GH secretagogue.
How to Reconstitute
Taken orally — no reconstitution required.
What to Expect
- Weeks 1-2: Potential initial increases in appetite and improvements in sleep quality may be observed. Some researchers report mild lethargy.
- Weeks 3-6: Increases in IGF-1 and GH levels become more consistent. Researchers may note improvements in exercise recovery and overall well-being.
- Weeks 7-12: More pronounced changes in body composition, such as modest increases in lean body mass and decreases in fat mass, are often reported in research.
- Weeks 12-16: Bone mineral density changes, if any, typically require longer periods of observation to detect. Continued improvements in overall body composition and recovery are often noted.
- Long-term (beyond 16 weeks): Extended research periods may show sustained elevation of GH/IGF-1, but potential long-term side effects become more relevant and require careful monitoring.
Side Effects & Safety
| Effect | Frequency | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Increased appetite | Very Common | Mild |
| Water retention | Common | Mild |
| Elevated fasting glucose | Common | Moderate |
| Lethargy at first | Uncommon | Mild |
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Open CalculatorPeptides discussed here are for research purposes only. Nothing on this page is medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making health decisions.