MK-677
Ibutamoren
Overview
MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is a potent orally active growth hormone secretagogue and ghrelin receptor agonist that stimulates the pituitary gland to release growth hormone and IGF-1. Unlike injectable GH secretagogues it is taken as a daily oral tablet making it one of the most accessible GH-stimulating compounds available. MK-677 has completed multiple clinical trials demonstrating increases in GH and IGF-1 levels improvements in lean body mass bone density and sleep quality. It is widely used in the research community for muscle growth anti-aging applications and improving recovery.
Mechanism of Action
MK-677 acts as a selective agonist of the ghrelin receptor (GHSR-1a) mimicking the action of ghrelin — the endogenous hunger and GH-releasing hormone. By binding to GHSR-1a in the pituitary gland and hypothalamus MK-677 stimulates the pulsatile release of growth hormone through pathways that complement and enhance those activated by GHRH. Unlike exogenous GH administration MK-677 preserves the natural pulsatile pattern of GH secretion and works through the body's own regulatory feedback mechanisms. The resulting GH pulse stimulates hepatic IGF-1 production which mediates downstream anabolic effects including muscle protein synthesis lipolysis and tissue repair. MK-677 also increases deep sleep duration by enhancing slow-wave sleep — an effect mediated through central ghrelin receptor activation in sleep-regulating brain circuits.
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Dosage Information
Typical Dose
10-25 mg daily
Frequency
Once daily, typically at bedtime
Administration
Oral capsule or liquid
Notes
Bedtime dosing takes advantage of the sleep-enhancing effects and aligns with the natural nocturnal GH pulse. Lower doses (10mg) minimize water retention and appetite stimulation while preserving most GH benefits.
Compound Data
Molecular Formula
C28H40N4O8S2
Molecular Weight
624.80 g/mol
IUPAC Name
2-amino-2-methyl-N-[(2R)-1-(1-methylsulfonylspiro[2H-indole-3,4'-piperidine]-1'-yl)-1-oxo-3-phenylmethoxypropan-2-yl]propanamide;methanesulfonic acid
PubChem CID
6450830Potential Side Effects
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Quick Facts
- Administration
- Oral capsule or liquid
- Typical Dose
- 10-25 mg daily
- Frequency
- Once daily, typically at bedtime
- References
- 0 curated + 48 from PubMed
- Clinical Trials
- 8 registered
- Evidence Score
- 80.0 / 100