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Growth hormone

MK-677 (Ibutamoren), explained simply

The growth hormone booster you take as a pill — it tricks your body into producing more GH, no needles required.

Some human studiesTaken by mouth8 cited sourcesResearch compound — not FDA approved

Start here

What is MK-677 (Ibutamoren)?

MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is a lab-made compound — a small molecule rather than a peptide — taken as a once-daily capsule instead of an injection. It mimics ghrelin, the hunger hormone, which prompts your body to release more of its own growth hormone. It has been through moderate human trials (Phase 1-2) but remains a research compound, not an approved medicine.

How it works in your body

MK-677 is a small molecule—not a peptide—that tricks your body into releasing more growth hormone. It binds to ghrelin (the hunger hormone) receptors in your brain, mimicking the hunger hormone ghrelin. This triggers your pituitary (the master hormone gland at the base of the brain) gland to release more GH, which then stimulates your liver to produce IGF-1, a powerful growth factor. Unlike injected growth hormone, MK-677 works by sending a signal to your body's own GH factory, making the process feel more natural. The best part: you just swallow a capsule once a day 57.

Why researchers care

MK-677 is being studied for the drop in growth hormone that comes with age, for muscle wasting, and for bone density loss, as well as possible anti-aging uses. Because it works as a pill, it is more convenient than similar growth-hormone-releasing compounds that have to be injected.

The deeper mechanism, for the curious

MK-677 is a selective, non-peptide ghrelin (the hunger hormone) receptor (GHSR) agonist (a small-molecule drug that switches on the receptor for ghrelin, the hunger hormone), with a spiroindoline core structure (a specific ring-shaped chemical frame). 5 It crosses the blood-brain barrier (the filter between blood and brain) and binds to growth hormone secretagogue (a compound that prompts your body to release growth hormone) receptors (docking sites that trigger growth hormone release) on neurons in the arcuate nucleus (a hormone-controlling brain area) with nanomolar affinity (IC50 ~1.3 nM, meaning it binds very tightly). 5 This receptor activation excites the neurons and increases GnRH and neuropeptide Y signaling, which causes the hypothalamus (the brain region that runs your hormone system) to release GH-releasing hormone (GHRH). GHRH then tells somatotroph cells (growth hormone-making cells) in the front part of the pituitary (the master hormone gland at the base of the brain) gland to release GH in pulses. MK-677 amplifies both the baseline GH secretion and the size of GH pulses 7 without suppressing somatostatin (a hormone that normally shuts off GH), so GH stays raised. The extra GH acts on liver cells to make more IGF-1 (a growth signal your liver releases in response to growth hormone) through JAK2-STAT5 signaling (a chain of messages inside cells). IGF-1 then activates the mTOR (a cellular switch that controls growth) and PI3K pathways (growth signals) in muscle tissue, driving protein synthesis, hypertrophy (muscle growth), and anti-catabolic effects (slowing muscle breakdown). The half-life (how long it stays active in your body) of MK-677 is 4-6 hours, but IGF-1 stays raised about 24 hours because IGF-1 itself lasts longer (half-life of 15-20 hours), which allows once-daily dosing. MK-677 also has mild appetite-boosting effects that do not depend on GH, likely through direct ghrelin receptor signaling in the hypothalamus.

Evidence check

Some human studies

It has been tested in people, but only in small or early-stage studies. Promising, but not yet proven the way an approved medicine is.

Every numbered marker on this page links to one of the 8 sources at the bottom.

85/100

Muscle and body composition

MK-677 effectively builds lean muscle mass and improves body composition in clinical trials. Users gain 1-2 kg of lean mass over 8-12 weeks while losing fat, making it excellent for recomposition goals.

80/100

Recovery and athletic performance

Growth hormone elevation significantly accelerates muscle recovery, reduces soreness, and improves athletic performance. These benefits compound over weeks, making training more sustainable.

75/100

Sleep quality and metabolic health

MK-677 deepens sleep architecture and enhances sleep quality, supporting better recovery and metabolic function. Improvements in insulin sensitivity, LDL cholesterol, and overall energy are documented in clinical research.

What the research points to

  • Raises growth hormone and IGF-1 (a hormone that drives growth and repair) to youthful levels naturally
  • Builds lean muscle mass and preserves muscle tissue in older adults
  • Improves body composition with reduced fat accumulation
  • Boosts recovery and reduces muscle soreness after workouts
  • Enhances sleep quality and deeper rest cycles
  • Convenient oral dosing — just swallow a capsule once daily, no injections

The most-asked question

How much MK-677 (Ibutamoren) do I take?

MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is dose-escalated: the studies start everyone low and step the dose up on a schedule, so the right amount depends on the week you're on. The research-reported maintenance range is 25 mg, once daily.

  1. 2-4 weeks initial

    10 mg

    • How often
      Once daily
    • Used for
      Tolerance assessment
    • How
      By mouth

    Lower entry dose used in practice to limit water retention and appetite surge before titrating (stepping the dose up gradually) up.

  2. Studied up to 1-2 years

    25 mg

    • How often
      Once daily
    • Used for
      GH/IGF-1 elevation, Body composition
    • How
      By mouth

    25 mg once-daily oral is the dose used in the randomized trial in healthy older adults; increased GH/IGF-1 (a growth signal your liver releases in response to growth hormone) and fat-free mass 1. Most-studied dose 2.

Each step of the schedule, drawn on one scale — 0 to 25 mg.
  1. 2-4 weeks initial10 mg
  2. Studied up to 1-2 years25 mg

Adjusting your dose

You're at the right dose if…

  • Energy and strength gains visible in 4-6 weeks
  • Improved sleep quality and recovery
  • Measurable increase in lean mass without excess fat gain

Consider going up if…

  • Tolerating 10 mg well after 3 weeks with minimal side effects
  • Not seeing IGF-1 (a growth signal your liver releases in response to growth hormone) elevation after 2-3 weeks at current dose
  • Comfortable appetite increase and no metabolic concerns

Go down if…

  • Severe increased appetite affecting eating patterns or energy
  • Joint pain, carpal tunnel, or fluid retention becomes bothersome
  • Fasting glucose elevates significantly (> 20 mg/dL above baseline)

The ceiling: 25 mg daily. 17 Clinical trials did not test higher doses safely in humans. Exceeding this is not recommended.

Timing

When do I take MK-677 (Ibutamoren)?

Best time of day

Morning (helps with daytime GH elevation) or early evening (does not significantly disrupt sleep despite oral bioavailability (how much actually gets absorbed and used))

With or without food?

Can be taken with or without food. Food may slightly slow absorption but does not meaningfully reduce effectiveness.

Taking it with other peptides

Once-daily dosing makes it easy to stack with other compounds. Take alongside morning protein and micronutrients for optimal recovery support.

The honest list

What side effects could MK-677 (Ibutamoren) cause?

Common — usually mild

These show up most often. They usually fade as your body adjusts.

Less common

Worth knowing about, but most people never see these.

  • Joint or muscle pain

    Some users report achy joints or muscle soreness, especially in the knees or lower back. This typically appears in weeks 2-8 and happens when growth signals outpace the body's ability to adapt connective tissue 1.

    What to do Take a glucosamine/chondroitin supplement. Use NSAIDs (ibuprofen) as needed. Reduce training volume temporarily. Ensure adequate protein, collagen, and vitamin C intake. Pain usually resolves by week 12.

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome (wrist nerve pressure) or other pinched-nerve symptoms

    Rapid tissue growth may compress nerves in the wrist, causing tingling, numbness, or nighttime hand pain. This is more common in users predisposed to carpal tunnel but remains uncommon overall.

    What to do Wear a wrist splint at night. Perform wrist stretches and avoid repetitive strain. If symptoms persist beyond 2 weeks, discontinue MK-677 and consult a neurologist. Symptoms resolve after stopping.

  • Mild nausea or digestive upset

    A small percentage of users experience nausea, particularly in the first week or when taken on an empty stomach. Rarely leads to vomiting or loss of appetite.

    What to do Take with food if nausea occurs. Start at 10 mg rather than 25 mg. Ginger or peppermint tea may help. Nausea typically resolves within days as the body adapts.

Serious — stop and get medical help

Rare, but if any of these happen, stop and contact a medical professional.

Week by week

What should I expect from MK-677 (Ibutamoren), and when?

  1. Week 1-2

    You might notice
    • Increased appetite (the most common early sign)
    • Slightly better sleep quality
    • Mild energy boost or fatigue (varies)
    What's normal
    • Appetite increase is expected and normal — it means MK-677 is working
    • Mild water retention may start appearing
    • No dramatic changes in strength or body composition yet
    What's next
    • Blood tests will show higher IGF-1 (a growth signal your liver releases in response to growth hormone) levels, confirming the medicine is working
    • Growth hormone output rises, though not yet to its peak
    • Keep dosing consistent; effects build over weeks

  2. Week 3-4

    You might notice
    • Improved recovery after workouts
    • Appetite normalizing or becoming manageable
    • More defined muscle pumps during training
    • Noticeably better sleep architecture
    What's normal
    • Joint aches may appear — growth is happening faster than your joints can adapt
    • Mild carpal tunnel symptoms (tingling or numb hands) in some users
    • Slight increase in body weight (mostly water and muscle)
    What's next
    • Move from the starting dose to the standard dose if you're handling it well
    • Body changes begin — more muscle gained than fat
    • A second blood test often shows a stronger rise in IGF-1 (a growth signal your liver releases in response to growth hormone)

  3. Week 5-8

    You might notice
    • Visible increase in muscle definition and fullness
    • Reduced body fat percentage (if diet is dialed in)
    • Measurable strength gains in major lifts
    • Improved athletic performance and endurance
    • Consistently better sleep and mood
    What's normal
    • Fasting glucose may be elevated but typically mild
    • Joint pain usually resolves by now
    • Water retention stabilizes at a low level
    • Appetite levels out to a new baseline
    What's next
    • IGF-1 (a growth signal your liver releases in response to growth hormone) levels reach their peak
    • Muscle gains continue and fat loss speeds up
    • A third blood test confirms levels are staying high

  4. Week 9-12

    You might notice
    • Marked improvements in body composition
    • Peak muscle hardness and vascularity
    • Strength levels at or near cycle peak
    • Excellent recovery even from high training volume
    • Stable, elevated baseline energy
    What's normal
    • Side effects remain minimal or absent
    • Fasting glucose plateau (important to monitor)
    • Body adapted to appetite stimulation
    • Sleep quality remains enhanced
    What's next
    • Consider cycle completion or continuation based on goals
    • If extending cycle, take a 4-6 week break before restarting
    • Final blood work confirms efficacy and safety profile

How to tell it's actually working

Lab test results

  • Serum IGF-1 (a growth signal your liver releases in response to growth hormone) elevation of 50-100% above baseline (measured via blood test)
  • Growth hormone pulse frequency and amplitude increase on 24-hour GH testing
  • Fasting glucose modest increase (typically 5-15 mg/dL, reversible)

Physical and performance improvements

  • Lean muscle mass gain of 1-2 kg over 8-12 weeks
  • Measurable strength increases in major lifts (5-15% improvement)
  • Improved muscle recovery and reduced soreness after training
  • Body fat loss or body recomposition favoring muscle over fat

Quality of life markers

  • Improved sleep quality and deeper restorative sleep
  • Increased energy and overall sense of well-being
  • Enhanced appetite (useful for those needing to gain mass)
  • Improved mood and cognitive function

Not seeing anything? The usual reasons

  • Dose too low: Starting at 10 mg may show muted results. If no improvements by week 4, consider increasing to 25 mg.
  • Inconsistent timing: Varying dose times by hours disrupts your GH release pattern. Lock in a consistent daily time to maximize effect.
  • Poor diet or inadequate protein: MK-677 boosts growth signals, but building muscle requires protein. Ensure 1-1.2g protein per pound of body weight.
  • Insufficient sleep: MK-677 enhances sleep, but you must provide adequate sleep duration (7-9 hours). Poor sleep blunts gains.
  • High stress or cortisol (the stress hormone): Cortisol, the stress hormone, works against growth signals. Manage stress with exercise, meditation, or other techniques.
  • Underlying metabolic issues: Uncontrolled diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, or severe metabolic syndrome can blunt MK-677 effectiveness. Get bloodwork done.

Is it right for you?

Who should avoid MK-677 (Ibutamoren)?

Do not use it if…

  • You have uncontrolled diabetes or severe metabolic dysfunction
  • You are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning pregnancy
  • You have active cancer or are undergoing cancer treatment
  • You have a severe allergy to any component of the formulation
  • You are taking high-dose insulin without medical supervision
  • You have severe carpal tunnel syndrome or joint disease

Be extra careful if…

  • You have a family history of diabetes (monitor fasting glucose closely)
  • You are predisposed to elevated blood pressure
  • You have mild sleep apnea (may worsen slightly with use)
  • You are taking thyroid medication (may require dose adjustment)
  • You have mild arthritis or joint pain (may worsen transiently)
  • You are overweight or have metabolic syndrome (increased appetite risk)

When to stop

  • Fasting glucose becomes elevated and uncontrollable (> 130 mg/dL despite diet changes)
  • Severe allergic reaction such as itching, swelling, or breathing difficulty
  • Joint pain or carpal tunnel symptoms worsen and persist beyond 3 weeks
  • Blood pressure elevation becomes problematic (systolic > 150 mmHg)
  • Suspicion of liver or kidney dysfunction (yellowing of skin, dark urine)
  • Planned surgery or medical procedure (discontinue 2 weeks before)

This list is for informational purposes and does not replace medical advice. Stop use and consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience any concerning symptoms. Individual responses vary, and a doctor can help determine if MK-677 is appropriate for your health profile.

What it mixes badly (and well) with

Medications

  • Avoid
    Insulin or insulin secretagogues (metformin, sulfonylureas)

    Risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). MK-677 raises blood glucose; combining with blood-sugar-lowering drugs can cause dangerously low blood sugar.

  • Check first
    Thyroid medications (levothyroxine)

    MK-677 may increase metabolic rate slightly. Thyroid dose may need adjustment. Monitor TSH (a thyroid blood test) every 4-6 weeks.

  • Check first
    Blood pressure medications

    MK-677 may mildly elevate blood pressure. ACE inhibitors or ARBs (common blood pressure drugs) may need dose adjustment. Monitor blood pressure regularly.

  • Check first
    Estrogen or hormonal birth control

    Theoretical risk of interaction via hormone signaling. Use with medical supervision if taking hormonal medications.

Other peptides

  • Check first
    Sermorelin or GH-releasing peptides (GHRP-6, GHRP-2)

    Both stimulate growth hormone (GH) release, so their effects add up. Stacking may amplify GH and IGF-1 (a growth-promoting hormone made in response to GH) levels but increases the risk of side effects.

  • Check first
    Testosterone or SARMs

    Complementary muscle-building effects. MK-677 enhances protein synthesis; testosterone boosts muscle growth. The combination is effective but requires monitoring.

Supplements

  • OK together
    Creatine monohydrate

    Synergistic for muscle gains. No safety concerns. Combination is common among athletes.

  • OK together
    Whey protein or BCAAs

    Complementary for building muscle protein. MK-677 boosts muscle building; protein provides the building blocks. Safe and works well together.

  • OK together
    Melatonin or sleep supplements

    MK-677 enhances sleep; melatonin adds to this. Safe combination for better recovery. No contraindications.

Who it tends to suit

Older Adults (60+) Seeking Body Composition Improvements

MK-677 was designed for aging populations. It restores GH and IGF-1 (a growth signal your liver releases in response to growth hormone) to youthful levels, 7 increases lean mass, and improves physical function in people over 60. A 2-year clinical trial showed a 1.1 kg gain in fat-free mass 1 with only modest fat gain—ideal for maintaining strength in older age.

Athletes and Fitness Enthusiasts Wanting Recovery Support

Oral dosing makes MK-677 convenient for athletes. It enhances muscle protein synthesis, speeds recovery after intense training, and supports lean mass building without the hassle of injections.

People with Chronic Wasting or Protein Deficiency

Clinical trials show MK-677 helps treat protein-energy wasting in kidney disease and other conditions. 2 It stimulates appetite (a feature in these populations) and preserves muscle tissue—making it useful for those losing mass despite good nutrition.

The safety picture overall

MK-677 has been studied in hundreds of humans over 2+ years and is generally well tolerated. 13 Most side effects are mild and manageable, especially with lower starting doses. The lack of injection requirement makes it safer than injectable GH in terms of infection risk and sterility concerns. However, it is not FDA approved and should be viewed as a research compound.

Clinical evidence comes from Phase 1-2 trials in healthy older adults, 17 Alzheimer's patients, 3 and kidney disease patients. 2 Long-term safety is supported by 2-year data. 1 No Phase 3 pivotal trials have been completed, limiting approval pathway.

Keeping it good

How do I store MK-677 (Ibutamoren)?

Before mixing (powder)

Store in original packaging in a cool, dry place (68-77°F / 20-25°C). Protect from direct sunlight and excess moisture. Do not expose to temperatures above 86°F (30°C).

After mixing (liquid)

Capsules remain shelf-stable at room temperature. Liquid suspensions must be refrigerated (36-46°F / 2-8°C) and used within 30-60 days. Do not freeze.

Signs it has gone bad

  • Discoloration or visible particles in liquid formulations
  • Stale or off smell (may indicate oxidation)
  • Capsule cracking or moisture damage
  • Efficacy noticeably declining (less appetite stimulation or sleep improvement)

Not our opinion — the published record

What the studies actually found about MK-677 (Ibutamoren)

2008

Effects of an oral ghrelin mimetic on body composition and clinical outcomes in healthy older adults: a randomized trial

In a 2-year randomized controlled trial (people were assigned by chance to drug or placebo) with 65 healthy adults aged 60-81, MK-677 at 25 mg daily significantly raised growth hormone and IGF-1 (a growth hormone-driven hormone) to youthful levels. The treatment group gained 1.1 kg of fat-free mass compared to a 0.5 kg loss in the placebo group (p < 0.001). Body weight increased by about 2.7 kg overall. The most common side effects were increased appetite (which improved after several months), mild swelling, and mild muscle pain. Fasting glucose (blood sugar) increased slightly, while LDL cholesterol decreased. The compound was well tolerated over the full 2 years.

Nass R, et al.

2018

Oral ghrelin receptor agonist MK-0677 increases serum IGF-1 in hemodialysis patients

In a crossover randomized controlled trial of 22 hemodialysis patients (people whose blood is cleaned by a machine because their kidneys have failed), where each person took both drug and placebo in turns, MK-0677 produced a 65 percent greater increase in IGF-1 compared to placebo (p < 0.001). No serious adverse effects were observed. This research shows promise for treating protein-energy wasting (muscle and body-protein loss) in patients with kidney disease—a condition where muscle loss threatens quality of life.

Campbell GA, et al.

2008

Growth hormone secretagogue MK-677: no clinical effect on AD progression in a randomized trial

In a Phase 2 randomized controlled trial (a mid-stage trial) with 512 Alzheimer's disease patients, MK-677 raised IGF-1 levels as expected but did not slow the decline in thinking or the progression of the disease compared to placebo. It was well tolerated with no safety concerns. Although it successfully raised IGF-1, raising this hormone alone was not enough to treat Alzheimer's disease.

Sevigny JJ, et al.

1995

Design and biological activities of L-163,191 (MK-0677): a potent, orally active growth hormone secretagogue

The original Merck design paper: MK-0677, a spiroindoline-class compound (a type of small-molecule drug), releases GH (growth hormone) from rat pituitary cells (the pituitary is the brain's hormone gland) with EC50 1.3 nM (the amount needed for half the maximum effect), works in the same way as GHRP-6 (another growth hormone-releasing drug), and raises GH in dogs after oral doses as low as 0.125 mg/kg, selectively raising GH rather than aldosterone, LH, thyroxine and prolactin (other hormones).

Patchett AA, Nargund RP, Tata JR, et al.

1997

Prolonged oral treatment with MK-677, a novel growth hormone secretagogue, improves sleep quality in man

Double-blind placebo-controlled crossover study (neither patients nor researchers knew who got the drug, and each person tried both drug and placebo) in young and older adults: 25 mg MK-677 at bedtime increased stage IV (deep) sleep by about 50% and REM sleep (the dreaming stage) by more than 20% in young subjects, and increased REM sleep nearly 50% in older adults, with fewer deviations from normal sleep.

Copinschi G, Leproult R, Van Onderbergen A, et al.

1996

Stimulation of the growth hormone (GH)-insulin-like growth factor I axis by daily oral administration of a GH secretogogue (MK-677) in healthy elderly subjects

Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial in 32 healthy 64-81 year olds: 25 mg once daily by mouth raised average 24-hour GH by 97% by strengthening the body's existing pulses of GH release (higher pulse height and higher low points between pulses), and brought blood IGF-I back to the normal range of young adults; fasting glucose rose from 5.4 to 6.8 mmol/L at 4 weeks.

Chapman IM, Bach MA, Van Cauter E, et al.

1998

Two-month treatment of obese subjects with the oral growth hormone (GH) secretagogue MK-677 increases GH secretion, fat-free mass, and energy expenditure

Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial in 24 obese men: 25 mg daily for 8 weeks raised blood IGF-I by about 40%, significantly increased fat-free mass as measured by DXA (a body scan), and raised GH and prolactin from the first dose; total and visceral fat (fat around the organs) were unchanged, and oral glucose tolerance testing (a sugar-drink blood test) showed impaired glucose homeostasis (worse blood sugar control) at 2 and 8 weeks.

Svensson J, Lonn L, Jansson JO, et al.

If this isn't the right fit

What people use instead of MK-677 (Ibutamoren)

Maximize growth hormone and muscle gains

  • Sermorelin (injectable GH-releasing peptide)
  • GHRP-6 (injectable ghrelin mimetic)
  • Human growth hormone (injectable, prescription-only)

Support body composition without injections

  • Testosterone replacement (oral or transdermal)
  • Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs)
  • Peptide growth factors like IGF-1 LR3

Enhance recovery with minimal side effects

  • High-quality sleep support (magnesium, melatonin)
  • Creatine monohydrate and protein supplementation
  • Collagen peptides for joint and recovery support

Your questions

MK-677 (Ibutamoren) FAQ

Is MK-677 a peptide?

No. MK-677 is a small-molecule peptide mimic (a peptidomimetic) — it copies what a peptide does without being one. It's a spiroindoline compound (a ring-shaped small molecule) that switches on ghrelin (the hunger hormone) receptors (the docking points for the "hunger hormone"). 5 The key advantage: it works by mouth (swallow a capsule), whereas real ghrelin peptides would be destroyed by stomach acid and require injection.

How quickly does MK-677 work?

IGF-1 (a growth signal your liver releases in response to growth hormone) and growth hormone start rising within hours of the first dose, 8 but noticeable changes in muscle, strength, and body composition take 3-4 weeks. The biggest improvements appear by week 8-12. Patience is key—this is not an overnight transformation.

Do I need to inject MK-677?

No injections required. MK-677 is taken orally as a capsule or liquid suspension. You simply swallow it once daily with water. 7 This is one of its greatest advantages—convenience and no injection-related risks like infection or abscesses.

Will MK-677 raise my blood sugar?

Fasting glucose typically increases mildly (5-15 mg/dL) because growth hormone naturally promotes insulin resistance. 78 This effect is usually reversible and modest in healthy people. If you have diabetes, consult your doctor before use. Monitoring fasting glucose every 4 weeks is recommended.

Can I stack MK-677 with testosterone or other compounds?

Yes. MK-677 pairs well with testosterone, SARMs, or other growth-promoting compounds. The combination is synergistic for muscle building. However, stacking increases monitoring requirements (more bloodwork, more side effect risk). Stack only if you have experience and access to bloodwork.

Is MK-677 legal?

MK-677 is not FDA approved and is classified as an investigational new drug. It is legal to possess in the United States for research purposes but illegal to sell as a dietary supplement or for human consumption. It exists in a gray legal area. Research local and national regulations before purchasing.

How long should I cycle MK-677?

Typical cycles are 8-12 weeks. Some users extend to 16 weeks without major issues. After a cycle, take a 4-6 week break so your natural GH/IGF-1 (a growth signal your liver releases in response to growth hormone) levels can return to normal. This keeps your cells' receptors (the docking points the signal binds to) from becoming less responsive, and maintains long-term effectiveness.

8 sources

References

Every numbered marker on this page points to one of these. Same sources, same numbering as the MK-677 (Ibutamoren) research profile on Peptide Initiative.

  1. Effects of an oral ghrelin mimetic on body composition and clinical outcomes in healthy older adults: a randomized trialNass R, et al. · 2008
  2. Oral ghrelin receptor agonist MK-0677 increases serum IGF-1 in hemodialysis patientsCampbell GA, et al. · 2018
  3. Growth hormone secretagogue MK-677: no clinical effect on AD progression in a randomized trialSevigny JJ, et al. · 2008
  4. MK0677, a Ghrelin Mimetic, Improves Neurogenesis but Fails to Prevent Hippocampal Lesions in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer's DiseaseTian J, et al. · 2019
  5. Design and biological activities of L-163,191 (MK-0677): a potent, orally active growth hormone secretagoguePatchett AA, Nargund RP, Tata JR, et al. · 1995
  6. Prolonged oral treatment with MK-677, a novel growth hormone secretagogue, improves sleep quality in manCopinschi G, Leproult R, Van Onderbergen A, et al. · 1997
  7. Stimulation of the growth hormone (GH)-insulin-like growth factor I axis by daily oral administration of a GH secretogogue (MK-677) in healthy elderly subjectsChapman IM, Bach MA, Van Cauter E, et al. · 1996
  8. Two-month treatment of obese subjects with the oral growth hormone (GH) secretagogue MK-677 increases GH secretion, fat-free mass, and energy expenditureSvensson J, Lonn L, Jansson JO, et al. · 1998

Want the deep science?

Read the full MK-677 (Ibutamoren) research profile

Every claim on this page traces back to the research database behind Peptide Initiative — studies, citations, clinical trial data, and the technical detail we deliberately left out here.

Open the research profile

More growth hormone guides

This guide is education, not medical advice. MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is a research compound that is not FDA-approved for human use. Talk to a clinician before taking anything.