MK‑677 (Ibutamoren): Growth Hormone Secretagogue for Muscle, Recovery & Longevity
Naturally Elevate Growth Hormone & IGF‑1 to Boost Lean Muscle, Fat Loss, and Sleep Quality
MK‑677, also known as Ibutamoren, is a potent oral growth hormone secretagogue that mimics the action of ghrelin to stimulate the natural release of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF‑1)—two hormones critical for muscle growth, fat metabolism, recovery, and overall vitality. Unlike synthetic GH injections, MK‑677 enhances the body’s own hormone production through the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, without shutting down natural output.
MK-677 purportedly functions in the following ways:
- Ghrelin Mimetic – MK‑677 binds to the ghrelin receptor (GHS‑R1a) in the hypothalamus and pituitary, stimulating the release of endogenous GH
- Stimulates GH Pulsatility – Enhances both the amplitude and frequency of growth hormone pulses, which leads to consistent elevation of IGF‑1
- Increases IGF‑1 Levels – IGF‑1, produced in the liver in response to GH, promotes anabolic growth, cellular regeneration, and neuroprotection
- Non-Suppressive – Unlike exogenous HGH, MK‑677 preserves the body’s natural production feedback mechanisms
- Oral Bioavailability – MK‑677 is taken once daily orally, with a long half-life (~24 hrs), making it ideal for compliance and consistent effect
Originally developed for treating GH deficiency and muscle wasting, MK‑677 has demonstrated substantial benefits in both young and elderly populations, including increased lean body mass, improved sleep architecture, enhanced tissue repair, and support for metabolic health and cognitive function. Its once-daily oral dosing, sustained hormone elevation, and non-suppressive action make it a popular choice for performance, anti-aging, and therapeutic applications.
MK‑677 is under research and is not approved for use as a pharmaceutical treatment in many countries. While human studies have demonstrated safety and efficacy in controlled doses, long-term effects require further research. Off-label use should be monitored by a knowledgeable healthcare provider.
Key Potential Benefits
- Increases GH & IGF‑1 Naturally – Sustains elevated hormone levels similar to youthful profiles without suppressing natural production.
- Builds & Preserves Lean Muscle Mass – Clinically proven to increase fat-free mass, even in calorie-restricted or elderly individuals.
- Accelerates Recovery & Joint Repair – Promotes collagen synthesis and cellular repair for faster recovery from training or injury.
- Improves Deep Sleep & Recovery Hormones – Enhances REM and slow-wave sleep phases, leading to better recovery and hormonal balance.
- Supports Fat Loss & Metabolism – GH promotes lipolysis and improved energy utilization without stimulating appetite excessively.
- Neuroprotective & Anti-Aging Support – IGF‑1 is associated with brain health, cognitive resilience, and neurogenesis in aging populations.
Research Sources
- Effects of an Oral Ghrelin Mimetic on Body Composition in Healthy Older Adults (1) (2)
- MK‑677 Reverses Diet‑Induced Nitrogen Wasting
- Stimulation of the GH–IGF‑1 Axis by Daily Oral MK‑677
- Endocrine and sleep effects of MK‑677 in young and elderly subjects
Technical Information
CAS Number: | 42464-96-0 |
PubChem CID: | 9939050 |
Formula: | C27H36N4O5S |
Synonyms: | 191487-51-1, 2-Amino-N-(3-(benzyloxy)-1-(1-(methylsulfonyl)spiro[indoline-3,4′-piperidin]-1′-yl)-1-oxopropan-2-yl)-2-methylpropanamide. MK-677, (HCl salt), MK-677;Crescendo, MK 0677;MK-0677;MK0677, SCHEMBL4927761 |