Ibutamoren MK-677 FAQ

Before we get into how Ibutamoren MK-677 works, let me answer some of the most common questions surrounding this substance.

What is Ibutamoren MK-677?

Ibutamoren, which also goes by the developmental code MK-677, is a compound that stimulates the release of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). By increasing levels of these hormones, MK-677 may support muscle growth and recovery from training.

This unique compound is generally categorized as a peptide hormone, which is made of small amino acid chains. In addition, MK-677 is an oral tablet, unlike the injectable version of synthetic growth hormone.

Is Ibutamoren MK-677 a steroid?

Ibutamoren MK-677 is not an anabolic steroid because it differs in the mechanism of action. Steroids are synthetic versions of hormones like testosterone, and taking them reduces your body’s natural hormone production.

Conversely, MK-677 is a growth hormone secretagogue, which signals your body to secrete more of this hormone naturally. When you stop taking it, your hormones remain elevated and gradually return to their natural level.

Is Ibutamoren MK-677 a SARM?

Ibutamoren MK-677 is not a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) because it does not work through the androgenic pathway. And that means it also doesn’t negatively impact natural testosterone levels like a SARM would.

What does Ibutamoren MK-677 do?

Ibutamoren MK-677 acts as a ghrelin receptor agonist, meaning it mimics the effect of the ghrelin hormone in your body. Ghrelin is often called the “hunger hormone” because it increases your desire to eat. However, ghrelin also stimulates the release of growth hormone.

Reported Benefits of Ibutamoren MK-677

Ibutamoren MK-677 has mainly been studied for its potential uses in the areas of hormone deficiency and muscle wasting with age. But these benefits could potentially apply to healthy young adults as well.

Here are some of the reported benefits of MK-677:

1. Increased muscle mass: MK-677 may increase muscle mass and strength in both young and older adults.
2. Enhanced fat loss: MK-677 could improve body composition by reducing body fat.
3. Improved sleep quality: MK-677 has been reported to improve sleep quality by increasing REM sleep and reducing the frequency of disturbances during sleep.
4. Improved bone density: MK-677 may improve bone density and reduce the risk of fractures in older adults.
5. Improved cognitive function: MK-677 may improve cognitive function, including memory and attention.
6. Anti-aging effects: MK-677 has been reported to have anti-aging effects, such as improved skin elasticity.

Ibutamoren MK-677 Research Studies

Next, I will review what medical studies show about MK-677 and its significant effects on endocrinology, body composition, and recovery.

Hormone Stimulation Results

I’ve already mentioned a few times how MK-677 naturally stimulates the release of vital hormones in your body. But you’re probably wondering how effective it is and how much it increase those hormones.

One notable study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology in 1996 investigated the effect of MK-677 on growth hormone secretion in healthy older men and women. The results showed that MK-677 nearly doubled GH levels compared to baseline.

Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology in 1998 investigated the effect of MK-677 on GH in healthy young men. This study reported that the average 24-hour concentration of GH increased by 570% after two weeks of MK-677 treatment and by 500% after eight weeks.

Side Effects of Ibutamoren MK-677

Overall, Ibutamoren MK-677 is described as generally well-tolerated in medical studies. And of the reported side effects, none required immediate medical intervention.

However, as with any drug or supplement, it’s essential to be aware of the possible adverse reactions. The most common side effects of MK-677 shown in studies were water retention, increased appetite, and impaired glucose tolerance.

Water Retention

Water retention is a common side effect of many drugs and medications. And while this “bloating” effect may seem cosmetic, it can have measurable health consequences.

For instance, excess body water, or edema, can lead to high blood pressure and reduced kidney function. So it’s vital to take this side effect seriously.

Related: 19 Natural Ways to Get Rid of Water Retention

One study showed that taking MK-677 increased total body water by an average of 4.6 kg (10.1 lbs) after eight weeks. However, the increase was not statistically different from the placebo group, indicating that other changes could have caused the water weight.

Another study of 65 older adults from 2008 showed that total water weight increased by an average of 1.7 kg (3.7 lbs) after 12 months on MK-677. This study also showed that some of the weight gain from MK-677 is due to intracellular water (within the cells), and some is from extracellular water (outside the cells).

And it’s important to distinguish between the two types of water weight because intracellular water increases with increases in lean muscle mass.

Ibutamoren MK-677 Dosage

Studies surrounding oral ibutamoren MK-677 use doses ranging from 2mg to 50mg per day. However, most studies used a dose of 25mg daily.

In addition, studies using multiple dosages show that at least 10mg daily is required to obtain significant increases in circulating growth hormone levels. And 25mg doses typically result in the most desirable increases in GH.

While doses higher than 25mg may further increase GH, they are also more likely to cause undesirable side effects.

The timing of the MK-677 administration also varied between studies. For example, one study found that taking MK-677 in the morning resulted in the highest 24-hour plasma growth hormone concentrations.

While another study found that taking MK-677 before bed resulted in a more significant effect on sleep quality. So the ideal time to take MK-677 likely depends on the desired outcome.

Legality & Sale of Ibutamoren MK-677

The legal status of Ibutamoren MK-677 varies by country. In the United States, MK-677 is not approved by the FDA for medical use and is not legal for sale or use as a dietary supplement.

Moreover, MK-677 is labeled “for research purposes only,” meaning it’s intended for use in laboratory or research settings. But it’s also available to the public for purchase, so nothing stops the average Joe bodybuilder from purchasing it online.

In addition, using peptide hormones with anabolic or strength-enhancing actions is prohibited under section S2.2 of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Prohibited List. So you can’t use this substance if you compete in certain sports.

Finally, compounds like MK-677 represent a gray area in the performance enhancement market. And it would be best to use caution when buying any controversial substance because regulations are spotty at best.

My Thoughts on Ibutamoren MK-677

It’s tempting to believe the hype about substances that promise rapid muscle growth, especially when YouTube sensations like Liver King and Ryan Humiston include MK-677 in their muscle-building “supplements.”

However, I am also an engineer and hesitant to take risks without reliable data. Unfortunately, the current data isn’t robust, and it’s unlikely medical journals will start putting out long-term double-blind studies on peptides for recreational bodybuilders!

So, it comes down to a general risk vs. reward assessment. On one hand, MK-677 has potentially severe side effects, although they are reversible. And it’s possible that much of the gains would be water weight.

On the other hand, the muscle growth effect could be transformative and take one’s physique to a new level. Especially when combined with dedicated training and a dialed-in diet plan.

In addition, the risk could be mitigated by having blood work done before and during treatment to measure the effect on hormones and monitor risk factors like high blood pressure or fasting glucose levels. Of course, you should also talk about it with your doctor.

Overall, I don’t believe Ibutamoren MK-677 is an effective alternative to steroids and SARMs. Also, I recommend you put in the work naturally and do your homework before even contemplating such substances.

Key Takeaways

It’s important to note that while MK-677 may benefit bodybuilders, it’s not a substitute for proper training and nutrition. Therefore, it’s crucial to prioritize a balanced and nutrient-dense diet and a well-designed training program to achieve optimal results.

Furthermore, MK-677 is not a steroid and does not have the same level of anabolic effects. But it’s also not a SARM, so it doesn’t negatively affect your natural testosterone levels.

However, the benefits and side effects of MK-677 may be amplified if combined with other performance-enhancing drugs like steroids or SARMs. So it’s critical to think about possible interactions and confounding results.

Finally, it’s essential to be aware of potential side effects associated with MK-677, including increased appetite, water retention, and impaired glucose tolerance. Therefore, it’s recommended to consult with a medical professional before considering any supplement or drug and always follow the recommended dosage guidelines.