🧬 MK-677 (Ibutamoren)

Overview

MK-677, also known as Ibutamoren Mesylate, is a non-peptide, orally active growth hormone secretagogue. It mimics the action of ghrelin, a hunger hormone, and stimulates the release of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). Unlike traditional peptides that require injections, MK-677 offers a convenient oral route and is known for boosting muscle mass, fat loss, recovery, and sleep—making it a favorite in bodybuilding, anti-aging, and biohacking circles.

📂 Category

Non-Peptide GH Secretagogue for Muscle Growth, Recovery, and Anti-Aging

🔬 Molecular Profile

  • Chemical Name: MK-677 (Ibutamoren Mesylate)

  • Molecular Formula: C₂₇H₃₆N₄O₅S

  • Molecular Weight: ~528.66 g/mol

  • Structure: Orally bioavailable non-peptide that acts as a ghrelin receptor agonist

📌 What Is MK-677?

  • Name: MK-677 (Ibutamoren)

  • Type: Non-peptide GH secretagogue

  • Function: Stimulates natural release of growth hormone and IGF-1 by binding to ghrelin receptors

  • Use: Supports muscle growth, fat metabolism, recovery, anti-aging, and sleep quality

🧪 Mechanism of Action

MK-677 activates the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) to initiate powerful endogenous GH release:

  • Increases GH and IGF-1 levels significantly, mimicking natural pulses

  • Promotes anabolism (muscle-building) and lipolysis (fat-burning)

  • Improves REM and deep sleep, boosting GH levels during rest

  • No suppression of endogenous GH after discontinuation

  • Orally bioavailable, eliminating need for injections

🩺 Most Common Uses

⚕️ Potential Benefits

Physique & Performance

  • Increases lean muscle mass and strength

  • Reduces body fat, particularly abdominal and visceral fat

  • Enhances vascularity and muscle fullness

Hormonal & Metabolic

  • Elevates GH and IGF-1 to youthful levels

  • Promotes better insulin sensitivity and nutrient partitioning

  • May support bone density and joint integrity

Recovery & Longevity

  • Speeds up injury recovery and muscle repair

  • Enhances deep sleep and sleep quality

  • Supports skin elasticity and hair growth

💉 Administration & Dosage

Delivery Forms

  • Oral capsule or tablet – most popular GH secretagogue that doesn’t require injection

Typical Research Dosages

📚 Scientific Research

MK-677 has been studied in both healthy adults and clinical populations:

  • GH/IGF-1 Boost: Clinical trials show 50–100% increase in IGF-1 and GH within weeks

  • Muscle Growth: A 12-month study showed significant increases in lean body mass in older adults

  • Sleep Improvement: Enhanced REM and deep sleep with improved sleep architecture

  • Fat Metabolism: Shown to reduce visceral fat, especially in growth hormone-deficient individuals

  • Bone Density: Improved bone mineral density in longer-term studies

⚠️ Safety & Side Effects

Common Side Effects (Anecdotal & Clinical)

  • Increased appetite

  • Mild water retention or bloating

  • Numbness or tingling (GH-related)

  • Joint stiffness (transient)

  • Potential insulin resistance with high doses or long-term use

Monitoring Suggested

  • Fasting glucose / insulin sensitivity

  • IGF-1 levels to track GH response

  • Water retention or weight spikes in first 2–4 weeks

📜 Legal & Regulatory Status

  • FDA Status: Investigational; not approved for any medical condition

  • Classification: Research compound

  • Legality: Available for research; not legal for human consumption in many regions

  • WADA Status: Banned in professional sports due to GH-stimulating effects

❓ FAQ

Is MK-677 the same as HGH?
No – MK-677 stimulates your own GH production, unlike synthetic HGH which replaces it.

Can it be stacked with peptides?
Yes – MK-677 pairs well with CJC-1295 (no DAC), Ipamorelin, BPC-157, and TB-500 for advanced recovery and growth protocols.

Will I lose gains after stopping it?
Some water retention may subside, but muscle and fat loss improvements are often retained if diet and training continue.

Can it be used long-term?
Yes – but it's recommended to monitor blood sugar, IGF-1, and take breaks after 12–16 week cycles if necessary.

🔍 Summary

MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is a powerful oral GH secretagogue that offers a convenient, injection-free method to boost growth hormone, IGF-1, muscle mass, and sleep quality. Its broad range of benefits—from fat loss to anti-aging—makes it a go-to for those seeking hormonal optimization and performance enhancement without synthetic hormones or daily injections.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational use only and does not constitute medical advice.

Sourcing

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