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MK-677 (Ibutamoren Mesylate)
Also known as: Ibutamoren, Ibutamoren Mesylate, Oratrope, Nutrobal
Confidence
Updated 2026-03-18
MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is an orally active, non-peptide ghrelin receptor (GHSR) agonist that stimulates growth hormone release. Unlike traditional GH secretagogue peptides, it is taken orally and has a long duration of action, making it one of the most widely discussed compounds in the longevity and bodybuilding communities. It is not FDA-approved for any indication.
Class
GH Secretagogue (Ghrelin Mimetic)
Routes
Oral
Half-Life
~4–6 hours (but GH elevation persists ~24 hours)
MK-677 mimics ghrelin by binding to the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a) in the hypothalamus and pituitary. This stimulates pulsatile GH release while maintaining normal GH physiology (unlike exogenous HGH). It also increases IGF-1 levels, stimulates appetite via ghrelin pathways, and may improve sleep architecture by enhancing Stage IV sleep duration.
Half-Life
~4–6 hours (but GH elevation persists ~24 hours)
Bioavailability
Oral: ~60–70% (estimated from PK studies)
No approved indications. Research contexts: GH deficiency, sarcopenia in elderly, bone density, sleep quality, nitrogen wasting states.
Multiple human trials exist. A 2-year RCT in elderly (n=65) showed sustained IGF-1 increase but no significant body composition improvement. Studies in GH-deficient adults showed restoration of GH/IGF-1 to normal levels. MK-677 increased GH and IGF-1 in all studied populations but failed to demonstrate clinically meaningful endpoints in pivotal trials, leading to Merck abandoning development.
Human Studies
20
Animal Studies
30
Common: increased appetite, water retention, transient numbness/tingling, elevated fasting blood glucose, insulin resistance with chronic use. Concerning: may worsen pre-diabetes or insulin resistance, potential to elevate cortisol. Long-term safety unknown. Should not be used in those with active cancer due to IGF-1 elevation.
Not FDA-approved. Not a controlled substance but not legal to sell for human consumption. Classified as investigational. WADA-prohibited in sport.
Drug Interactions: May worsen glycemic control — caution with diabetes medications. May interact with corticosteroids. Monitoring: Fasting glucose, insulin, IGF-1 levels, HbA1c with chronic use. Research Gaps: No completed Phase III trials. Long-term cancer safety data absent.
Oral (research context)
Common Range
10–25 mg/day
Timing
Evening (to align with natural GH pulse and manage appetite increase)
Frequency
Once daily
Cycling
Commonly used 8–12 weeks on, 4 weeks off in research settings. Some protocols use continuous dosing.
Important Note
NOT FDA-approved. Monitor fasting glucose. Appetite increase can be significant. Research compound only.
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GHRH Analog
Sermorelin is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) consisting of the first 29 amino acids of the 44-amino acid GHRH sequence. Originally FDA-approved for diagnostic use in assessing growth hormone secretion, it has become a cornerstone of legitimate peptide therapy for growth hormone optimization due to its established safety profile and compounding eligibility.
GH Secretagogue
Ipamorelin is a selective growth hormone secretagogue that mimics ghrelin to stimulate GH release from the pituitary. It is considered one of the most selective GH secretagogues, with minimal effect on cortisol, prolactin, and other hormones — making it a preferred choice in combination protocols with CJC-1295.
GH Secretagogue
CJC-1295 is a synthetic analog of GHRH(1-29) with modifications to extend its half-life. Available in two forms: with Drug Affinity Complex (DAC) for prolonged action, and without DAC (also called Modified GRF 1-29) for shorter, more pulsatile action. Frequently combined with ipamorelin for synergistic GH release.
GH Secretagogue (GHRP)
Hexarelin is a synthetic hexapeptide growth hormone secretagogue and one of the most potent GHRPs studied. It stimulates GH release via the ghrelin receptor and has unique cardioprotective properties independent of its GH-releasing activity. Despite promising research, it was never brought to market due to tachyphylaxis (reduced response with repeated dosing).
Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or modifying any peptide therapy. PeptideSupplierMatch does not prescribe, sell, or distribute peptides.
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