MK-677, also known as ibutamoren, is an oral ghrelin receptor agonist that stimulates the growth hormone (GH) axis. By activating the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) in the hypothalamus and pituitary, it increases the body's natural secretion of growth hormone and IGF-1.
Unlike many other GH-related compounds, MK-677 is taken orally rather than by injection. In addition, compared to GHRH analogs more bulking is appreciated.
MK-677 is not FDA-approved for medical use.
It has been investigated in clinical trials for:
MK-677 mimics the hormone ghrelin, often called the "hunger hormone."
Activation of the ghrelin receptor leads to:
This randomized trial examined MK-677 in healthy older adults, showing increases in GH and IGF-1 levels and modest increases in fat-free mass.
Researchers evaluated MK-677 as a growth hormone secretagogue, demonstrating sustained increases in GH and IGF-1.
Study results suggested increased bone turnover markers and lean body mass, with elevated IGF-1 levels during treatment.
Investigators reported improvements in deep sleep stages (slow-wave sleep) associated with GH stimulation.
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Disclaimer: The information on this page was generated with the assistance of artificial intelligence and compiled from publicly available sources. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, information may be incomplete, outdated, or incorrect and should not be relied upon as medical advice.
R2 Medical Clinic uses medications sourced from compounding pharmacies. Compounded drugs have not been approved by the FDA; have not been reviewed by the FDA for safety, efficacy, or quality; and have not been demonstrated to the FDA to be safe or effective for their intended use. The processes by which the compounded drugs are manufactured have not been reviewed by the FDA. FDA approved products containing semaglutide and tirzepatide are available.