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MK-677 (Ibutamoren)

Last reviewed: April 18, 2026 by The Peptide Catalog Team

An oral growth hormone booster for sleep, muscle, and recovery — no injections needed. MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is an oral growth hormone secretagogue that mimics ghrelin to stimulate GH and IGF-1 release. Unlike injectable peptides, it's taken orally and has a long duration of action. Known for increasing appetite, improving sleep, and supporting muscle/recovery.

CategoryGrowth & Repair Peptides
ClassGH secretagogue
GoalMuscle GrowthSleep
Overview

Core Benefits

Key Advantages
Oral GH boost
Once-daily pill — no injections, 24-hour duration.
Sustained GH and IGF-1
Drives steady GH and IGF-1 elevation through ghrelin mimicry.
Sleep deepening
Improves slow-wave sleep within the first 1–2 weeks.
Appetite increase
Strong hunger boost — useful for bulks, awkward for cuts.
Recovery support
Speeds recovery from training over 8–12 week runs.
Convenience over injection
Oral dosing trades efficacy for compliance.

These are educational summaries of commonly discussed effects in wellness/regenerative contexts, not guarantees.

MK-677 (Ibutamoren) Results Timeline

Progression
1
Week 1–2
Physical Changes
Increased appetite, possible water retention
Performance & Recovery
Improved sleep quality and depth
Other Benefits
Vivid dreams, increased hunger (ghrelin agonist)
2
Week 3–8
Physical Changes
Visible muscle fullness, early fat mobilization
Performance & Recovery
Better recovery, improved workout capacity
Other Benefits
Sustained appetite increase, stable energy
3
Month 3–4
Physical Changes
Lean mass gains, body composition improvements
Performance & Recovery
Strength gains, enhanced recovery
Other Benefits
Skin and hair quality improvements
4
4+ Months
Physical Changes
Significant body recomposition with continued use
Performance & Recovery
Peak recovery and training capacity
Other Benefits
Oral dosing; cycles 12-16 weeks or longer with monitoring

Timeline is illustrative and non-guaranteed. Outcomes vary and are commonly discussed alongside training, nutrition, sleep, and cycling practices.

Read the full MK-677 (Ibutamoren) results timeline →

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Evidence at a glance

Two parallel grades per outcome — clinical RCT depth and real-world community adoption. See the Research Overview below for citations and detail.

OutcomeClinical EvidenceCommunity Evidence
Lean mass / body composition in older adultsStrongStrong
GH/IGF-1 elevationStrongStrong
Sleep quality (REM increase)ModerateStrong
Bone formation markers (obese males)ModerateModerate
Alzheimer's disease progressionStrongWeak
How It WorksOral GH Secretagogue — Non-Peptide Ghrelin Mimetic

Target → Signal → Effect → Outcomes

1
Target

GHS-R1a (Ghrelin Receptor) — Oral Bioavailability

MK-677 (Ibutamoren) targets the same ghrelin receptor as Ipamorelin and other GHRPs, but it's a non-peptide small moleculewith oral bioavailability. No injection needed — it's taken as a capsule or liquid.

2
Cellular Signal

Sustained Ghrelin Pathway Activation

Like injectable GHRPs, MK-677 triggers the IP3/DAG cascade at the pituitary. However, its long half-life (24+ hours) means sustained GH elevation rather than discrete pulses. This is similar to the DAC version of CJC-1295 — convenient but non-pulsatile.

3
Systemic Effect

Sustained GH/IGF-1 + Significant Appetite Increase

Consistently elevated GH and IGF-1 levels. Significant appetite increase (ghrelin effect). Potential for water retention and blood sugar changes with extended use. The sustained, non-pulsatile pattern differs from natural GH secretion.

4
What You Notice

Strong Hunger → Sleep → Body Composition (Gradual)

Significant appetite increase and improved sleep quality are the most immediate effects. Body composition changes develop over months. Water retention is common. Convenience of oral dosing is the primary advantage over injectable GHRPs.

What Makes This Peptide Different

MK-677's defining advantage is oral bioavailability — no injections required. It achieves GH/IGF-1 elevation through the same receptor as injectable GHRPs but with sustained (non-pulsatile) activation. The tradeoff is increased appetite, potential blood sugar effects, and the non-physiological sustained GH pattern. Not technically a peptide, but commonly categorized with them.

Research overview

Outcome-by-outcome look at what the evidence actually supports for MK-677 (Ibutamoren), including human vs. animal study counts and our editorial take on each.

Lean mass and body composition

Clinical:StrongCommunity:Strong

Nass 2008 randomized 65 healthy older adults to 25 mg daily oral MK-677 vs placebo for 2 years and showed sustained increases in GH and IGF-1 to young-adult levels with significant lean-mass gain (+1.1 kg vs -0.5 kg placebo) and no serious adverse events. This is the best body-composition data for any oral GH secretagogue.

4 human studies · 8 animal studies

Key findings & citations
  • Lean mass +1.1 kg vs -0.5 kg placebo over 2 years (Nass 2008).
  • GH and IGF-1 sustained to young-adult range without tachyphylaxis.
  • Modest weight gain (~1.1 kg) and increased appetite — feature, not bug, in sarcopenic populations.
  • Insulin sensitivity decreased modestly — a real consideration in pre-diabetic users.

Our take

The strongest non-injectable GH secretagogue data we have. Watch fasting glucose; the appetite increase is the hidden tax.

Sleep quality

Clinical:ModerateCommunity:Strong

Copinschi 1997 showed that prolonged oral MK-677 in older adults increased REM sleep duration by approximately 50% and reduced REM latency, with the frequency of deviations from normal sleep architecture decreasing. This is one of the more reproducible community claims for the molecule.

1 human study · 2 animal studies

Key findings & citations
  • REM sleep duration increased ~50% in older adults vs placebo.
  • REM latency reduced; sleep architecture normalized.
  • Effect plausibly mediated by ghrelin signaling on hypothalamic sleep regulation.

Our take

One of the few peptides where the sleep claim has actual sleep-stage data behind it. Take at night for this reason as much as the GH pulse.

Bone formation markers

Clinical:ModerateCommunity:Moderate

Svensson 1998 showed a 23% increase in type I procollagen and a 28% increase in procollagen III after 8 weeks in obese young males. Murphy 1999 confirmed in elderly adults. Bone resorption markers also increased — net effect on BMD over years remains under-characterized.

3 human studies · 2 animal studies

Key findings & citations
  • Type I procollagen +23%, procollagen III +28% at 2 weeks (Svensson 1998).
  • Bone resorption markers also elevated — high-turnover state.
  • Net BMD effect not definitively positive; alendronate co-administration trial showed modest BMD synergy.

Our take

Increases bone turnover, not necessarily bone mass. Pair with adequate calcium/vitamin D and don't expect osteoporosis-grade BMD gains.

Alzheimer's disease progression

Clinical:StrongCommunity:Weak

Sevigny 2008 randomized 563 patients with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's to 25 mg MK-677 vs placebo for 12 months and found no slowing of cognitive or functional decline. A clean negative result — important context when MK-677 is marketed for 'cognitive enhancement.'

1 human study · 4 animal studies

Key findings & citations
  • No difference in ADAS-Cog or ADCS-CGIC vs placebo over 12 months (n=563).
  • Despite IGF-1 elevation, no cognitive endpoint moved.
  • Argues against MK-677's nootropic positioning for AD-vulnerable populations.

Our take

The strongest cognitive trial for any GH secretagogue was negative. Don't take MK-677 for nootropic effects.

What MK-677 (Ibutamoren) doesn't do

Claims that current evidence does not support. Worth knowing before you set expectations.

Where to Buy MK-677 (Ibutamoren)

MK-677 is an oral small molecule — not an injectable peptide — so standard peptide vendors don't carry it. Capsule products are available on Amazon with third-party testing.

MK-677 (Ibutamoren) 12.5mg — 60 Capsules

Oral GH secretagogue · No reconstitution needed · View on Amazon

For format comparison and COA verification tips, see the MK-677 buying guide.

Dosing ProtocolGrowth Hormone (Oral)

Educational reference only. Individual responses vary. Consult healthcare provider before use.

Vial Size
N/A - oral
Reconstitution
N/A - oral capsule/liquid
Dose
10-25 mg
Timing
PM (before bed)
Frequency
Daily
Duration
8-12 weeks on, 4 weeks off
Protocol Notes
Oral GH secretagogue. Increases appetite significantly. Best taken before bed for GH pulse during sleep.

Why This Dosing Protocol

Why before bed? Taking MK-677 before sleep takes advantage of the natural nighttime GH window and helps manage the appetite increase (you sleep through the hunger spike).

Why daily? The 24+ hour half-life means once-daily dosing maintains consistent blood levels. No cycling within the week is needed.

Why 8-12 weeks max? Extended use can cause insulin resistance and sustained IGF-1 elevation. Cycling with off-periods helps manage these effects.
Full Dosing GuideReconstitution CalculatorCycle Cost Calculator
Molecular Structure
  • Type: Non-peptide
    (Small molecule, not an amino acid chain.)
  • Administration: Oral
    (Taken as capsule or liquid.)
  • Half-life: ~24 hours
    (Once-daily dosing sufficient.)
  • Primary Use: GH elevation
    (Increases GH and IGF-1 levels.)
Chemical class
Spiro-piperidine growth hormone secretagogue
MK-677 is a peptidomimetic — it mimics peptide function without being a peptide. This allows oral bioavailability unlike injectable GH peptides.
Key takeaway: MK-677 provides sustained GH elevation through oral dosing. It increases appetite, improves sleep, and supports muscle growth and recovery. The 24-hour duration means effects persist throughout the day and night.

FAQ

Is MK-677 a peptide?

MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is technically not a peptide but a non-peptide growth hormone secretagogue. However, it's often discussed alongside peptides because it mimics ghrelin and stimulates GH release. Its key advantage is oral bioavailability — it's taken as a pill rather than injected.

What are MK-677's main effects?

MK-677 increases GH and IGF-1 levels, promotes deeper sleep, stimulates appetite, and may support muscle growth and recovery. Effects can last 24 hours from a single dose. Common side effects include increased hunger, water retention, and potential effects on blood sugar.

How does MK-677 work?

MK-677 mimics the hormone ghrelin, binding to ghrelin receptors (GHSR) in the brain. This stimulates the pituitary gland to release growth hormone. Unlike injected GH, it works through the body's natural feedback mechanisms. It also doesn't suppress natural GH production like exogenous GH can.

What is the typical MK-677 dosage?

Common dosages range from 10-25 mg per day, taken orally. Many start at 10 mg to assess tolerance due to appetite and water retention effects. It has a long half-life (~24 hours), so once-daily dosing is sufficient. Evening dosing is popular due to its sleep-enhancing effects.

Does MK-677 affect blood sugar?

Yes, MK-677 can increase blood glucose and reduce insulin sensitivity, similar to growth hormone itself. This effect is more pronounced at higher doses and in those predisposed to insulin resistance. Monitoring blood glucose is recommended, especially for longer-term use. Some users cycle it or combine with berberine/metformin.

How long can you take MK-677?

MK-677 doesn't cause pituitary desensitization like some GHRPs, so it can theoretically be used long-term. However, due to effects on insulin sensitivity and water retention, many users cycle it (e.g., 3 months on, 1 month off). Consistent IGF-1 elevation may also warrant periodic breaks.

What are the side effects of MK-677?

Common side effects include: increased appetite (can be significant), water retention/bloating, lethargy initially, vivid dreams, and numbness/tingling in extremities. More concerning: elevated blood sugar, potential prolactin increase, and joint pain from water retention. Most side effects are dose-dependent.

Can MK-677 be stacked with peptides?

Yes, MK-677 is commonly stacked with GHRH peptides like CJC-1295 for synergistic GH release — GHRH increases GH production while MK-677 (via ghrelin mimicking) amplifies the pulse. It's less commonly stacked with other GHRPs (like Ipamorelin) since they work on the same receptor.

How long does reconstituted peptide last?

Once mixed with bacteriostatic water, peptides remain stable for up to 4 weeks when refrigerated at 2-8°C (36-46°F). Unopened powder can last 1+ year in the freezer. Get our complete Storage & Travel Guide.

Is this peptide legal to purchase?

Peptides sold "for research purposes only" are legal to purchase in the US, but are not FDA-approved for human use outside of specific medical applications. Always consult a healthcare provider before use.

New to peptides?

Take our Peptide Match tool to find the best peptide for your goals. You can also read our Complete Guide to Peptides to learn the basics.

Scientific Sources

The following peer-reviewed studies and official resources provide additional scientific context for this peptide:

MK-677 (Ibutamoren) Research Articles

guides

MK-677 Dosage Chart: 10-25mg Before Bed, Why Timing

Bedtime dosing syncs with natural GH pulses — morning dosing fights them. Covers 8-12 week cycles, appetite management, and blood sugar.

guides

Where to Buy MK-677 (Ibutamoren): Vendor Guide

Only 1 vetted MK-677 (Ibutamoren) source right now: $69.95 a vial, $7.00/mg. Codes save up to 10%. COA status and real cost per week.

results

MK-677 Results: Week-by-Week Timeline

Appetite and sleep changes hit in days — body composition takes months. Here's exactly what to expect at each stage of an MK-677 cycle.

benefits

MK-677: 50% Deeper Sleep + Oral GH Release

Most people take MK-677 for muscle — but its strongest clinical data is for sleep. 7 research-backed benefits ranked by evidence quality.

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Disclosure: we may earn affiliate commission from qualifying purchases. Educational information only — not medical advice.