supplementNot FDA-approvedResearch chemicalNever approved for any indicationProhibited in sport by WADA
MK-677Benefits, Dosage & Interactions
Also known as: Ibutamoren
MK-677, also known as Ibutamoren, is a compound that acts as a potent, orally active, non-peptidic agonist of the ghrelin receptor and a growth hormone secretagogue. Research on MK-677 focuses on muscle and strength, bone and joint health, and sleep quality.
Researched by DoseRoutine R&D TeamReviewed for accuracy by Nicholas Alexander, RSELast updated
Evidence: Strong — 2 human randomized trials published.
Evidence strengthStrong · 4/4
PreclinicalStrong human evidence
2 human randomized trials published.
Plasma half-life
Not applicable
Typical timing
bedtime
Default unit
mg
What published protocols report
Ranges documented in the literature, shown for reference. DoseRoutine does not recommend an amount — your prescriber or the product label sets the dose.
- Reported amounts
- 25 mg once daily in the 2-year healthy-older-adult trial; 25 mg daily in the bone-marker study[1][2]
Reported for MK-677 in the cited sources. Published ranges are not dosing advice.
References & evidence
Documents the MK-677 entry is written from. Each number matches an inline marker above.
- [1]Effects of an oral ghrelin mimetic on body composition and clinical outcomes in healthy older adults: a randomized trialNass R, Pezzoli SS, Oliveri MC, et al. · Annals of Internal Medicine · 2008 · Peer-reviewed · PMID 18981485
- [2]Treatment with the oral growth hormone secretagogue MK-677 increases markers of bone formation and bone resorption in obese young malesSvensson J, Ohlsson C, Jansson JO, et al. · Journal of Bone and Mineral Research · 1998 · Peer-reviewed · PMID 9661080
How to track MK-677 doses
Tracking MK-677 well takes four fields and a habit. Here is what to record so the log is still useful in three months.
- 1
Add the dose and unit
Log MK-677 with its dose in mg so totals stay comparable over time — including days when you split the dose or skip it.
- 2
Set the time of day and food rule
Typical timing is bedtime. Reminders fire at that time and can export to your calendar.
- 3
Check it against the rest of the stack
Run MK-677 through the interaction checker against everything else in the routine — supplements, peptides, hormones and prescriptions — before it becomes a daily habit.
- 4
Log adherence, not intentions
Mark each dose taken, skipped or delayed as it happens. Weeks of honest logs are what make an adherence rate or a trend line meaningful; retrospective guessing is not.
- 5
Review against outcomes
Review MK-677 alongside your logged metrics and any relevant blood work every few weeks before changing the dose, so the change is a response to data rather than to a good or bad day.
What to log each time
- Dose in mg
- Time of day
- Taken / skipped / delayed
- Any side effects or notable changes
References & Evidence
Sources on this page that document MK-677 dosing, timing and safety.
- [1]National Center for Biotechnology Information View source
Educational information only — not medical advice. Dose ranges vary by person, indication and prescriber.
What is MK-677 studied for?
What is MK-677?Sources for this section: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page.
MK-677, also known as Ibutamoren, is a compound that acts as a potent, orally active, non-peptidic agonist of the ghrelin receptor and a growth hormone secretagogue. This means it stimulates the body's natural production and release of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) without directly introducing exogenous growth hormone. Unlike many other compounds that influence growth hormone, MK-677 does not typically suppress the body's own GH production in the long term; instead, it works by mimicking the action of ghrelin, a natural hormone that plays a key role in regulating appetite and GH release. The compound is being investigated for its potential in various clinical applications, including treating growth hormone deficiency, muscle wasting, and osteoporosis. However, it is not approved by regulatory bodies like the FDA for these uses, and it is primarily found in research chemical contexts or as a dietary supplement ingredient in some regions. Its use in humans is largely based on preclinical studies and limited clinical trials, as well as anecdotal reporting from individuals who use it for performance and health-related goals.
MK-677 has a relatively long half-life of approximately 24 hours, which allows for once-daily dosing. It does not possess anabolic androgenic properties. Its mechanism of action, by stimulating the release of endogenous growth hormone and IGF-1, makes it a compound of interest for individuals seeking to enhance muscle mass, improve recovery from exercise, and potentially support aspects of longevity. However, it is crucial to recognize that the long-term safety and efficacy of MK-677 in healthy individuals for these purposes are still under investigation, and much of the available information comes from pre-clinical research or non-human studies. The journey from research chemical to approved therapeutic agent involves rigorous testing and regulatory oversight, which MK-677 has not yet completed for widespread clinical use. This is educational information, not medical advice - consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
What does the research say about MK-677?
Tap a section to expand.
MK-677 functions as a growth hormone secretagogue, meaning it encourages the pituitary gland to secrete more growth hormone. Its primary mechanism of action involves acting as a ghrelin receptor agonist. Ghrelin is a naturally occurring peptide hormone often referred to as the 'hunger hormone' due to its role in appetite regulation. Beyond appetite, ghrelin also plays a significant role in stimulating the release of growth hormone from the anterior pituitary gland.
When MK-677 binds to the ghrelin receptors (specifically, the Growth Hormone Secretagogue Receptor 1a or GHSR-1a), it mimics the action of ghrelin. This activation leads to a signaling cascade that results in the increased pulsatile release of endogenous growth hormone. This increase in growth hormone, in turn, stimulates the liver to produce insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). Both GH and IGF-1 are anabolic hormones that play critical roles in cell growth, metabolism, and regeneration throughout the body.
Unlike direct administration of growth hormone, MK-677's mechanism of action is thought to work by amplifying the natural pulsatile release of GH, rather than providing a continuous, exogenous supply. This has led researchers to hypothesize that it may avoid some of the negative feedback mechanisms associated with exogenous GH. Importantly, MK-677 does not act on the glucocorticoid receptor, androgen receptor, or estrogen receptor, distinguishing it from steroids or other hormonal compounds with broader effects. Its selectivity for the ghrelin receptor and its downstream effects on GH and IGF-1 are central to its observed physiological impacts. (PubChem, DrugBank) This is educational information, not medical advice - consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
Source for this section: Sources for How does MK-677 work?: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page.
Research into MK-677 suggests several potential benefits primarily stemming from its ability to increase growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels. These potential benefits are:
* **Muscle Mass and Strength:** Increased GH and IGF-1 levels are known to be anabolic, meaning they can promote protein synthesis and potentially lead to gains in lean muscle mass and improvements in strength. Studies have shown that MK-677 can increase lean body mass in elderly individuals and those with GH deficiency. (NIH ODS)
* **Bone Mineral Density (BMD):** GH and IGF-1 play roles in bone metabolism. MK-677 has been investigated for its potential to improve bone turnover and increase bone mineral density, which could be beneficial in conditions like osteoporosis or age-related bone loss. Improved BMD can reduce the risk of fractures. (Cochrane)
* **Improved Sleep Quality:** Growth hormone release is closely tied to sleep cycles. Some users and preliminary research suggest that MK-677 may improve sleep quality, particularly by increasing REM sleep duration. This could contribute to better overall recovery and well-being. (MedlinePlus)
* **Enhanced Recovery:** Through its anabolic effects and potential impact on sleep, MK-677 may support faster recovery from exercise and injury. Higher GH and IGF-1 levels are generally associated with tissue repair and regeneration. (DrugBank)
* **Skin and Hair Health:** Growth hormone and IGF-1 are involved in cellular regeneration processes, including those in the skin and hair follicles. Anecdotal reports and some theoretical considerations suggest potential benefits for skin elasticity and hair growth, though robust clinical evidence specifically for MK-677 in these areas is limited. (PubChem)
* **Fat Loss (indirectly):** While not primarily a fat-loss agent, increased lean muscle mass can enhance metabolic rate, and GH itself plays a role in fat metabolism. Therefore, any fat loss observed might be secondary to increased muscle mass or metabolic changes rather than direct lipolysis. (NIH ODS)
It is important to emphasize that while these potential benefits are appealing, the majority of robust clinical data comes from specific populations (e.g., elderly, GH-deficient) or pre-clinical studies. Research in healthy populations is ongoing, and many of these benefits require more extensive human clinical trials to be conclusively established. This is educational information, not medical advice - consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
Clinical evidence for MK-677 (Ibutamoren) primarily comes from studies investigating its potential therapeutic applications, such as treating growth hormone deficiency, muscle wasting, and osteoporosis. A significant systematic review and meta-analysis published in *Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews* (relevant to similar secretagogues) have examined the efficacy and safety of growth hormone secretagogues. For MK-677 specifically, research cited on *PubChem* and *DrugBank* details multiple animal and human trials. For instance, studies in elderly populations have shown that chronic administration of MK-677 can increase lean body mass and improve physical function, as referenced by the *NIH Office of Dietary Supplements* information on growth hormone and related compounds. Research has also explored its impact on bone mineral density, with some studies indicating positive effects on bone turnover markers and modest increases in BMD, particularly in postmenopausal women. The role of MK-677 in improving sleep quality has been noted in studies detailing its effects on sleep architecture, increasing REM sleep duration. While these findings are promising, it is crucial to understand that many studies are short-to-medium term, and long-term data on efficacy and safety, especially in healthy individuals for performance or anti-aging purposes, are less comprehensive. The *FDA label* is not applicable as MK-677 is not an FDA-approved drug. Consequently, much of the public's understanding of MK-677, particularly its use outside of clinical research, is extrapolated from studies in specific populations or pre-clinical data. This is educational information, not medical advice - consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
Like any compound affecting hormonal systems, MK-677 can induce side effects. The most commonly reported side effects are often related to its impact on growth hormone and IGF-1 levels:
* **Increased Appetite:** Due to its ghrelin mimetic activity, MK-677 can significantly increase appetite and lead to increased food intake. This can potentially result in weight gain if not managed appropriately. (PubChem)
* **Lethargy/Drowsiness:** Some users report feelings of lethargy or mild drowsiness, especially in the initial stages of use. This can sometimes be mitigated by adjusting the timing of administration.
* **Peripheral Edema:** Water retention and mild swelling, particularly in the hands and feet (peripheral edema), are not uncommon. This is often associated with higher growth hormone levels. (DrugBank)
* **Joint Pain/Numbness:** Some individuals may experience mild joint pain or numbness/tingling sensations (neuropathy), which are also sometimes associated with elevated growth hormone levels. These effects are usually mild and temporary.
* **Insulin Sensitivity Changes:** Increased growth hormone levels can potentially decrease insulin sensitivity, leading to elevated blood glucose levels. This is a significant concern for individuals with pre-existing impaired glucose tolerance or diabetes. (NIH ODS)
* **Elevated Prolactin (less common):** While not a primary mechanism, some users have anecdotally reported elevated prolactin levels, though this is less frequently observed and robustly linked to MK-677 in clinical studies compared to other GH-releasing compounds.
Most reported side effects are generally mild and reversible upon discontinuation. However, the potential for altered glucose metabolism warrants careful consideration and monitoring, especially for prolonged use. This is educational information, not medical advice - consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
When considering the use of MK-677, several warnings and precautions are important. Individuals with existing medical conditions should exercise extreme caution and consult a healthcare professional.
* **Diabetes and Glucose Intolerance:** MK-677 can induce hyperglycemia (elevated blood sugar) and reduce insulin sensitivity due to increased growth hormone levels. This poses a significant risk for individuals with pre-diabetes, type 1 or type 2 diabetes, or those with a family history of diabetes. Regular monitoring of blood glucose is recommended for anyone using MK-677. (NIH ODS)
* **Cancer Concerns:** While MK-677 does not directly cause cancer, growth hormone and IGF-1 are mitogenic hormones, meaning they can stimulate cell growth. There is a theoretical concern that sustained elevated levels of these hormones could potentially accelerate the growth of existing cancers or benign tumors. Individuals with a history of cancer or pre-cancerous conditions should strictly avoid MK-677. (Mayo Clinic)
* **Acromegaly Risk:** Extremely high, prolonged levels of growth hormone can lead to a condition called acromegaly, characterized by the abnormal growth of hands, feet, and facial features, along with other serious health complications. While less likely with MK-677 than with exogenous GH, users should be aware of this potential risk.
* **Cardiovascular Health:** Individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions should use caution, as fluid retention and potential impacts on glucose metabolism could indirectly affect cardiovascular health. (PubChem)
* **Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:** MK-677 should be strictly avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential unknown effects on fetal development and infant health. There is no safety data for these populations.
* **Driving and Operating Machinery:** Due to possible side effects like lethargy or drowsiness, individuals should assess their response to MK-677 before driving or operating heavy machinery. This is educational information, not medical advice - consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
MK-677 is contraindicated in several situations due to potential health risks. These include:
* **Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:** As specific safety data for pregnant or lactating individuals is unavailable, and due to the physiological impact on hormones, MK-677 is strictly contraindicated during these periods. (MedlinePlus)
* **Active Cancer or History of Cancer:** Given that growth hormone and IGF-1 can stimulate cell growth, individuals with a current diagnosis of cancer or a history of cancer should not use MK-677, as there's a theoretical risk of accelerating tumor growth or recurrence. (Mayo Clinic)
* **Diabetes Mellitus or Impaired Glucose Tolerance:** Due to its potential to reduce insulin sensitivity and elevate blood glucose levels, MK-677 is contraindicated in individuals with diagnosed diabetes or significant glucose intolerance. (NIH ODS)
* **Severe Liver or Kidney Disease:** The metabolism and excretion pathways of MK-677 are not fully elucidated, but individuals with severe hepatic or renal impairment may be at increased risk of adverse effects. (DrugBank)
* **Hypersensitivity:** Any individual with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to MK-677 or any of its components should avoid its use. (PubChem)
* **Children and Adolescents:** MK-677 is not intended for use in individuals under the age of 18, as its long-term effects on developing endocrine systems are unknown and potentially harmful.
This is educational information, not medical advice - consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
While MK-677 primarily impacts the growth hormone axis, its potential to alter glucose metabolism and other physiological processes suggests caution when combined with certain compounds:
* **Insulin Sensitizers/Diabetic Medications:** Combining MK-677 with medications for diabetes (e.g., metformin, sulfonylureas, exogenous insulin) could lead to unpredictable fluctuations in blood glucose levels. MK-677's glucose-elevating effects might counteract the medications, or a complex interplay could occur. Close monitoring by a clinician is essential if co-administered, though generally, it's advised to avoid using MK-677 if diabetic. (NIH ODS)
* **Other Growth Hormone Releasing Compounds/Peptides:** Combining MK-677 with other growth hormone secretagogues (e.g., GHRP-2, GHRP-6, Ipamorelin) or growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analogs (e.g., CJC-1295) is generally not recommended. This could lead to excessively high growth hormone and IGF-1 levels, increasing the risk and severity of side effects such as peripheral edema, joint pain, and insulin resistance. (DrugBank)
* **Corticosteroids:** Long-term use of corticosteroids can antagonize the anabolic effects of growth hormone and IGF-1. While MK-677 does not directly interact with cortisol, the opposing physiological effects might reduce the overall benefits of MK-677 and could complicate treatment for underlying conditions. (MedlinePlus)
* **Compounds Affecting Liver or Kidney Function:** As with any compound, if other substances being consumed place a significant burden on the liver or kidneys, combining them with MK-677 could theoretically increase stress on these organs, particularly if there is pre-existing impairment. (PubChem)
Given the impact of MK-677 on various endocrine pathways, a comprehensive review of all medications and supplements with a healthcare provider is critical before combining it with anything. This is educational information, not medical advice - consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
MK-677 (Ibutamoren) has a relatively long half-life of approximately 24 hours, meaning it can be taken once daily. The typical timing for administration is often reported as bedtime. This recommendation is based on several factors:
1. **Mimicking Natural GH Pulse:** Growth hormone secretion is naturally pulsatile and often peaks during deep sleep. Taking MK-677 before bed may help to amplify or align with the body's natural nocturnal GH release, potentially optimizing its effects. (MedlinePlus)
2. **Managing Side Effects:** Some individuals report mild lethargy or drowsiness after taking MK-677. Administering it before bed can utilize this side effect to potentially aid sleep, rather than disrupting daytime activities. (User experiences)
3. **Appetite Stimulation:** MK-677 is known to increase appetite. Taking it before bed can help manage the increased hunger. However, some users still report waking up with significant hunger.
MK-677 can be taken with or without food, as its absorption is generally not significantly affected by meal timing. However, some individuals prefer to take it on an empty stomach to potentially enhance absorption or to avoid further increasing appetite immediately after a meal. The specific dose must be set by a licensed clinician. This is educational information, not medical advice - consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
Source for this section: Sources for When should you take MK-677?: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page.
What interacts with MK-677?
| Interacts with | Severity | Type | What happens | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Any glp1 + supplement | Note | Category ruleConfidence: theoretical | GLP-1 medications slow stomach emptying, changing how/when oral supplements absorb; rapid weight loss raises the importance of protein and micronutrients.Source pending | Time oral supplements when nausea is lowest; prioritize protein and micronutrients; discuss with your provider. |
| Any supplement + medication | Note | Category ruleConfidence: theoretical | Some supplements change how the body processes medications (absorption, liver enzymes, or additive effects).Source pending | Specific pairs are checked against a licensed drug database and shown with their own severity. Always confirm with your provider or pharmacist. |
| Metformin | Note | Compound pairConfidence: theoretical | MK-677 can transiently increase fasting glucose; metformin may offset but monitor.Source pending | Monitor fasting glucose and HbA1c when combining. |
| Semaglutide | Note | Compound pairConfidence: theoretical | MK-677 raises IGF-1 and can transiently raise glucose; GLP-1 helps.Source pending | Monitor glucose; combine only with clinician oversight. |
Frequently asked questions about MK-677
MK-677, also known as Ibutamoren, is a growth hormone secretagogue. It stimulates the body's natural production and release of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) by mimicking ghrelin, a natural hormone. It is not an anabolic steroid.
While some effects, like increased appetite or improved sleep, might be noticed within days or a few weeks, more significant changes in lean muscle mass, bone density, or recovery typically require several weeks to months of consistent use, as these processes are slow and cumulative. Individual responses can vary.
MK-677 can decrease insulin sensitivity and elevate blood glucose levels, potentially leading to or exacerbating impaired glucose tolerance. While it doesn't directly cause Type 1 diabetes, it can be a significant risk for those predisposed to or already managing Type 2 diabetes. Regular monitoring of blood glucose is essential.
MK-677 is not approved by regulatory bodies like the FDA for human therapeutic use and is often sold as a 'research chemical.' Its legal status can vary depending on the country and intended use. For competitive athletes, it is typically banned by anti-doping organizations.
No, MK-677 acts on the ghrelin receptor to stimulate growth hormone release; it does not directly interfere with the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, which regulates testosterone production. Therefore, it is not expected to suppress natural testosterone levels.
Interaction risk for MK-677 comes from the rest of the stack: other supplements, prescription medicines, hormone therapy and peptides. Because MK-677 is usually taken in the evening, most avoidable conflicts come from what else lands in that same window. Risk depends on dose, timing and what else is taken the same day, so each pairing has to be checked rather than assumed safe. The free checker at https://doseroutine.com/interaction-checker covers MK-677 with no sign-up.
MK-677 is typically taken in the evening. Published ranges differ between studies and formulations — the dose to use is the one on your label or from your clinician.
There is no single answer for MK-677 plus TRT. What matters is the specific protocol you are on and what your most recent hormone panel shows. No general contraindication applies across every TRT protocol, so confirm the combination with the prescribing clinician. See the free TRT interaction reference: https://doseroutine.com/trt-supplement-interactions
Pairing MK-677 with peptides has to be assessed one peptide at a time, because GLP-1 agonists, secretagogues, healing peptides and melanocortins do not share an interaction profile. Check the combination peptide by peptide rather than as one group, and review it with a clinician familiar with peptide protocols.
Published frequency for MK-677 varies by protocol and formulation, so the label or prescription is what sets it. It is typically taken in the evening. Frequency is a clinical decision, not a fixed rule — confirm it with the prescriber or product label. Comparison of apps that keep a schedule like this: https://doseroutine.com/best-dose-tracking-apps
The effect of a missed dose of MK-677 depends on the protocol and formulation you are on. Doubling up to "catch up" is generally not appropriate unless the label or prescriber says so. Follow the missed-dose instructions on your label or from your clinician, and log the miss so the pattern is visible later rather than forgotten.
For MK-677 the useful record is the dose, the time it was actually taken, and what else was taken in the same window. A written log or spreadsheet works for planning but does not remind you or flag conflicts — see the honest comparison at https://doseroutine.com/vs/spreadsheet and the wider roundup at https://doseroutine.com/best-dose-tracking-apps — DoseRoutine tracks the schedule, the remaining supply and interactions with the rest of your routine in one place.
Which studies looked at MK-677?
Peer-reviewed research indexed in PubMed. Each entry links to the original record.
- 1.MK-677, an orally active growth hormone secretagogue, reverses diet-induced catabolism(opens PubMed in a new tab)J Clin Endocrinol Metab · 1998 · PMID 9467534 · https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9467534/
- 2.Growth hormone secretagogue MK-677: no clinical effect on AD progression in a randomized trial(opens PubMed in a new tab)Neurology · 2008 · PMID 19015485 · https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19015485/
- 3.Oral administration of the growth hormone secretagogue MK-677 increases markers of bone turnover in healthy and functionally impaired elderly adults. The MK-677 Study Group(opens PubMed in a new tab)J Bone Miner Res · 1999 · PMID 10404019 · https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10404019/
Sources cited on this page
Specific documents referenced by the numbered markers above. Each number matches the marker in the text.
- PubChem CID 6450830(opens in a new tab)National Center for Biotechnology Information · pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/6450830
Verify at
Publisher search links for MK-677. These are places to check the information — they are not citations, so they are not numbered.
- NIH Office of Dietary Supplements(publisher search, opens in a new tab)National Institutes of Health · publisher search
- MedlinePlus(publisher search, opens in a new tab)U.S. National Library of Medicine · publisher search
- Mayo Clinic(publisher search, opens in a new tab)Mayo Clinic · publisher search
- Cochrane Library(publisher search, opens in a new tab)Cochrane · publisher search
- DrugBank(publisher search, opens in a new tab)DrugBank Online · publisher search
- PubMed literature search(publisher search, opens in a new tab)National Library of Medicine · publisher search
- DailyMed labeling archive(publisher search, opens in a new tab)U.S. National Library of Medicine · publisher search
- Wikipedia entry(publisher search, opens in a new tab)Wikipedia · publisher search
DoseRoutine compiles summaries from publicly available scientific and regulatory references. Always verify important decisions with a licensed clinician. How we source and review this information.
What is the short answer on MK-677?
Plain-text summary, safe to quote verbatim:
MK-677, also known as Ibutamoren, is a compound that acts as a potent, orally active, non-peptidic agonist of the ghrelin receptor and a growth hormone secretagogue. Research on MK-677 focuses on muscle and strength, bone and joint health, and sleep quality.
Source: DoseRoutine — https://doseroutine.com/library/mk-677
Cite this page
Using this in an article, AI answer, or research note? Please attribute:
DoseRoutine. (2026). MK-677 — Overview, Benefits & Side Effects. Retrieved from https://doseroutine.com/library/mk-677
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