MK-677
Ibutamoren — Oral GH Secretagogue
01
Overview
MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is a non-peptide, orally active growth hormone secretagogue and selective agonist of the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a). It was originally developed by Merck & Co. for potential indications in muscle wasting, obesity, and GH deficiency. It produces sustained elevations in GH and IGF-1 levels while mimicking the natural pulsatile pattern.
02
Mechanism of Action
MK-677 mimics ghrelin's activation of GHS-R1a, stimulating GH release from the pituitary while also blocking somatostatin inhibition. Unlike GHRH analogues, it maintains the pulsatile GH secretory pattern. Its oral bioavailability (>60%) and 24-hour half-life allow convenient once-daily dosing.
03
Research Highlights
Phase II trial in elderly hip fracture patients shows improved walking speed and muscle strength
Sleep studies demonstrate significant increase in REM sleep and GH nocturnal secretion
Pediatric GH deficiency trials confirm dose-dependent IGF-1 elevation without adverse effects on glucose
04
Dosage
Administration & Timing
Oral administration (capsule or solution), once daily. Research protocols administer in the morning or before sleep; food does not significantly affect absorption.
Dosage Guidelines
Cycle Length
6–12 months in published clinical research; cycles of 8–16 weeks common in research.
05
Reconstitution
Solvent
Not applicable — orally dosed capsule or solution
Volume
N/A
Concentration
10–25 mg per unit dose
Storage
Store powder at room temperature (15–25 °C); protect from moisture and light.
Notes
MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is a non-peptide GHSR agonist with oral bioavailability. No reconstitution required. Monitor IGF-1 and fasting glucose.
Research Reference Only
Dosage and reconstitution values reflect commonly cited ranges from published research literature and are presented for educational and research reference only. This is not medical advice or a dosing recommendation. HEXAGEN does not endorse human use of any compound. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Research Disclaimer
MK-677 is for educational and research purposes only. Not intended as medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.
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MK-677 — Common Research Questions
What is MK-677?
MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is a non-peptide, orally active growth hormone secretagogue and selective agonist of the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a). It was originally developed by Merck & Co. for potential indica... MK-677 belongs to the Non-Peptide Research research category and is studied for its ibutamoren — oral gh secretagogue.
How does MK-677 work?
MK-677 mimics ghrelin's activation of GHS-R1a, stimulating GH release from the pituitary while also blocking somatostatin inhibition. Unlike GHRH analogues, it maintains the pulsatile GH secretory pattern. Its oral bioavailability (>60%) and 24-hour half-life allow convenient once-daily dosing.
What are the key research benefits of MK-677?
Oral bioavailability — no injection required. Sustained GH and IGF-1 elevation. Lean muscle mass preservation and growth. Bone mineral density improvement. Deep sleep and REM enhancement. Recovery and anti-catabolic effects.
What is the molecular structure of MK-677?
MK-677 is a research compound in the Non-Peptide Research category. Detailed molecular structure data is being compiled. Refer to primary literature for structural analysis.
What does the research say about MK-677?
Phase II trial in elderly hip fracture patients shows improved walking speed and muscle strength Sleep studies demonstrate significant increase in REM sleep and GH nocturnal secretion Pediatric GH deficiency trials confirm dose-dependent IGF-1 elevation without adverse effects on glucose These findings are based on preclinical and clinical research. MK-677 is a research compound and these studies do not constitute medical advice.
Is MK-677 FDA approved?
No. MK-677 is not FDA-approved for any indication. It is a research chemical studied in preclinical and early clinical research. These compounds are not approved for human therapeutic use and should only be studied in appropriate research settings.
What category does MK-677 belong to?
MK-677 belongs to the Non-Peptide Research category, which focuses on selective androgen receptor modulators and other novel research compounds studied for their unique pharmacological profiles. You can explore more compounds in this category on the Non-Peptide Research pillar page.
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Scientific References
Nass et al. — "MK-677: oral GH secretagogue" (Ann Intern Med, 2008)
Sleep studies: REM and GH nocturnal secretion enhancement
Phase II trial in elderly hip fracture patients shows improved walking speed and muscle strength
Sleep studies demonstrate significant increase in REM sleep and GH nocturnal secretion
Pediatric GH deficiency trials confirm dose-dependent IGF-1 elevation without adverse effects on glucose