MK-677 (Ibutamoren) (25mg)
MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is a non-peptidic, orally active growth hormone secretagogue (GHS) that mimics ghrelin. It increases GH and IGF-1 levels without affecting cortisol. This 25 mg vial represents one daily dose. It is taken orally or subcutaneously depending on the form.
Reviewed by the AllPeptides.eu Editorial Team·Last reviewed: 2026-06-16
Educational information. Not medical advice, and no efficacy claim is implied. Regulatory approval is not a use recommendation by AllPeptides.eu.
⚠️ For informational/educational purposes only. Not medical advice. We do not sell any products. Self-treatment carries serious risks — consult a healthcare professional. Disclaimer
Research monograph
See the full MK-677 encyclopedia page with mechanism, evidence tier, related variants and research context.
How It Works
MK-677 mimics ghrelin, binding to the GHSR (Growth Hormone Secretagogue Receptor) in the pituitary and hypothalamus. This increases the pulsatile secretion of GH, which in turn increases levels of hepatically-derived IGF-1. Unlike exogenous GH, it preserves the physiological pulsatile rhythm and does not suppress the GH axis.
Quick Start
- Reconstitution: Add 1.0 mL bacteriostatic water → 25.0 mg/mL (if in lyophilized form).
- Typical dose: 10–25 mg once daily.
- Storage: Room temperature (capsules) or 2–8 °C (reconstituted).
Typical Dosing Protocol
Route: Per os or Subcutaneous | Frequency: Once daily
| Week | Dose | Units (per injection) |
|---|---|---|
| Weeks 1–2 | 10 mg | 40 Units (0.40 mL) |
| Weeks 3–4 | 15 mg | 60 Units (0.60 mL) |
| Weeks 5+ | 25 mg | 100 Units (1.00 mL) |
Take once daily at bedtime to maximize the physiological nocturnal GH release. Cycles are 8–16 weeks; some use it long-term.
Related compounds
Reconstitution Steps
- If lyophilized: add 1.0 mL of bacteriostatic water.
- Inject slowly against the wall.
- Swirl gently.
- In capsule form: no reconstitution needed.
Protocol Overview
- Goal: Increase GH/IGF-1 for muscle mass, sleep quality, recovery.
- Form: Per os capsule or lyophilized/liquid for injection.
- Schedule: Daily dose at bedtime, 8–16 weeks.
Dosing Protocol
- Start: 10 mg/day × 2 weeks.
- Titration: 15 mg (Wks 3–4), 25 mg (Wks 5+).
- Timing: At bedtime.
- Cycle: 8–16 weeks.
- Break between cycles: After an 8–16 week cycle, a 4–8 week washout is recommended. MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is a non-peptidic ghrelin agonist — the washout period helps prevent long-term increases in insulin/glucose.
Washout & Cycle Restart
When can I restart?
After an 8–16 week cycle, a 4–8 week washout is recommended. MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is a non-peptidic ghrelin agonist — the washout period helps prevent long-term increases in insulin/glucose.
Minimum wait period: 4 weeks
Storage Instructions
- Capsules: Room temperature, dry place.
- Reconstituted: 2–8 °C.
- Protect from light.
Important Notes
- Increases appetite — this is expected and dose-dependent.
- May increase blood glucose and insulin — monitor.
- Mild water retention may occur in the first few weeks.
- Do not combine with exogenous GH without medical supervision.
Potential Benefits & Side Effects
Potential Benefits:
- Increased GH/IGF-1: ~40–60% increase in IGF-1 observed in clinical studies.
- Sleep: Improved sleep quality (increased REM & stage 4).
- Muscle Mass: Supports muscle protein synthesis.
- Bones: Increased density with long-term use.
- Recovery: Faster healing of injuries.
Potential Side Effects:
- Increased appetite: Significant, especially in the first few weeks.
- Water retention: Mild, transient.
- Blood glucose: Mild increase in fasting glucose (~5–10%).
- Numbness/Tingling: Occasionally (a sign of increased GH).
⚠️ Serious Warnings & Long-Term Risks
The following warnings are based on published literature, FDA labels, and post-marketing surveillance. They do not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional.
Chronic IGF-1 elevation
As an oral GHS, significantly increases IGF-1 on a 24-hour basis. A 2-year study in elderly showed no increase in neoplasms, but concern remains theoretical.
📄 Ann Intern Med 2008Insulin resistance
MK-677 significantly increases fasting glucose levels and may worsen type 2 diabetes. The study in diabetic patients was terminated early.
📄 J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2001References
- J Clin Endocrinol Metab (1998) — MK-677 increases GH and IGF-1 in older adults
View Source - Ann Intern Med (2008) — MK-677 in functionally limited older adults
View Source - J Clin Endocrinol Metab (1997) — Two months of treatment with MK-677
View Source - Neuroendocrinology (1996) — MK-677 and sleep quality
View Source
Recommended Supplements
L-Arginine + L-Ornithine
ZMA (Zinc + Magnesium + B6)
External Sources & Regulatory Status
Regulatory Approvals
GH deficiency / Sarcopenia
Phase II (Merck — development discontinued)
Educational information. Not medical advice, and no efficacy claim is implied. Regulatory approval is not a use recommendation by AllPeptides.eu.
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