MK-677
Oral growth hormone secretagogue that increases GH and IGF-1 levels
Clinical Research Score: 4/5 — Evaluated in multiple human clinical trials for growth-hormone and body-composition effects, but never gained FDA approval.
Categories: Hormonal Support, Performance & Energy, Sleep & Relaxation
What is MK-677?
MK-677 is the gateway to growth hormone optimization for people who don't want needles. It's taken orally — just a capsule — and provides sustained GH elevation around the clock. For many people, that simplicity is a game-changer.
The first thing most people notice is dramatically better sleep. Deep, restorative, wake-up-feeling-amazing sleep. The second thing is hunger — MK-677 significantly increases appetite, which is a benefit for some (those trying to gain muscle) and a challenge for others. Over weeks and months, body composition improves: lean muscle increases, skin and hair quality improve, and recovery from physical activity speeds up.
The oral convenience comes with a trade-off compared to injectable GH peptides — MK-677 also raises appetite and can affect blood sugar in some people, so monitoring is important. But for those who want sustained GH elevation without daily injections, it remains one of the most accessible and popular options in the space.
How MK-677 works
MK-677 mimics ghrelin — the body's hunger hormone — by activating the same receptor (GHSR). This triggers the pituitary gland to release growth hormone, while also increasing appetite through the same pathway. Unlike injectable GH peptides that produce brief GH pulses, MK-677's long half-life (about 24 hours) provides sustained GH and IGF-1 elevation throughout the day. It's essentially giving your body a continuous, gentle nudge to produce more growth hormone.
Scientific overview
MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is a non-peptide, orally active growth hormone secretagogue that mimics the action of ghrelin at the GHS receptor. It increases growth hormone and IGF-1 levels without significantly affecting cortisol levels. Unlike injectable GH peptides, MK-677 is effective when taken orally and has a long duration of action.
Dosing
- Starting dose: 10 mg per day
- Common dosage range: 10-25 mg per day
- Administration: Subcutaneous
- Half-life: ~24 hours
- Frequency: 1x daily