MK-677 (Ibutamoren)
Ibutamoren · Oratrope · MK-0677
Popular for:Oral GH secretagogue, sleep quality, muscle preservation
0
Total Studies
0
Human Studies
Phase III
Evidence Level
Not Approved
FDA Status
Overview
MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is a non-peptide, orally active growth hormone secretagogue that mimics ghrelin to stimulate GH and IGF-1 release. Unlike injectable GHRPs, MK-677 is taken orally and has a long duration of action (approximately 24 hours), allowing once-daily dosing.
Developed by Merck, MK-677 has been through Phase II clinical trials for various conditions including growth hormone deficiency, muscle wasting, and osteoporosis. It is technically not a peptide but is commonly grouped with GH secretagogues in the peptide research community.
Mechanism of Action
MK-677 is a ghrelin mimetic that binds to GHS-R1a receptors, stimulating GH release from the pituitary. Its non-peptide structure allows oral bioavailability and a long half-life (~24 hours). It elevates GH and IGF-1 levels for sustained periods, and notably increases appetite through ghrelin receptor activation in the hypothalamus.
Key Research Benefits
Clinical Evidence Summary
Research Pipeline
0
Total Studies
0
Human Studies
Not FDA-approved. Completed Phase II clinical trials (Merck). Research compound. Not scheduled by DEA.
Key Studies / PubMed References
Hepatotoxicity induced by MK-677.
ReviewCobani E, Amin MS, Hasso M, et al. · BMJ case reports · 2025
PMID: 40675653A GH Secretagogue Receptor Agonist (LUM-201) Elicits Greater GH Responses than Standard GH Secretagogues in Subjects of a Pediatric GH Deficiency Trial.
Human StudyBright GM, Thorner MO · Hormone research in paediatrics · 2022
PMID: 35354138LGD-4033 and MK-677 use impacts body composition, circulating biomarkers, and skeletal muscle androgenic hormone and receptor content: A case report.
ReviewCardaci TD, Machek SB, Wilburn DT, et al. · Experimental physiology · 2022
PMID: 36303408Characterization of growth hormone secretagogue small molecule ibutamoren (MK-0677) and its possible metabolites in thoroughbred horses for doping control.
ReviewPhilip M, Karakka Kal AK, Subhahar MB, et al. · Rapid communications in mass spectrometry : RCM · 2022
PMID: 35716382Beyond the androgen receptor: the role of growth hormone secretagogues in the modern management of body composition in hypogonadal males.
ReviewSinha DK, Balasubramanian A, Tatem AJ, et al. · Translational andrology and urology · 2020
PMID: 32257855Side Effects & Safety
Known Interactions
No curated interaction entry is live for MK-677 (Ibutamoren) yet.
Until the interaction table is fully populated, use the interaction checker and related peptides below to explore adjacent compounds and likely research pairings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Research Disclaimer
This page is for research and educational purposes only. The information presented is based on published scientific literature and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is not approved by the FDA for human therapeutic use. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. The studies referenced are linked to their original PubMed sources for verification.