For research and educational purposes only. Not intended for human consumption.
MK-677
Well Researched- •⚠️ Dec 2025 FDA warning letter issued
- •Illegal in supplements confirmed
- •Cardiovascular damage risk noted
- •Failed Alzheimer's trial (no efficacy)
Ghrelin Receptor Agonist | Growth Hormone Secretagogue
Overview
What is MK-677?
MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is a selective ghrelin receptor agonist that stimulates growth hormone release without suppressing natural production. While it increases IGF-1 levels (40-72%) and may improve sleep quality, 2024-2025 FDA warnings and research highlight significant safety risks including cardiovascular damage and insulin resistance. No clinical trials demonstrate approval for any condition, and December 2025 FDA warning letters confirm it's illegal in supplements. Banned by WADA
Key Benefits
60.1% IGF-1 rise at 6 weeks, 72.9% at 12 months in trials. +1.1kg fat-free mass gain in elderly subjects. Improved sleep quality reported. However, no strength/function gains demonstrated in controlled trials despite body composition changes.
Mechanism of Action
MK-677 mimics endogenous ghrelin by binding to GHS-R1a receptors in the hypothalamus and pituitary, triggering pulsatile growth hormone release. Superior >60% oral bioavailability eliminates injection requirements with 24-hour half-life enabling once-daily dosing. However, chronic use may worsen insulin sensitivity.
Molecular Information
Pharmacokinetics
Research Indications
Muscle Preservation
Reverses diet-induced catabolism with +2.69g/day nitrogen retention vs -8.97g/day placebo.
Body Composition
Increases fat-free mass by 1.1-2.7kg over 8-12 months with preferential lean tissue accrual.
Bone Health
39-45% increase in bone formation markers including osteocalcin within 6-8 weeks.
Research Protocols
Disclaimer: MK-677 is often run continuously or cycled (8-12 weeks on, 4-8 weeks off). Start at 10mg for 1-2 weeks before increasing to assess tolerance. WADA prohibited substance.
| Goal | Dose | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Body composition/Anti-aging | 25mg | 1x daily | Oral (bedtime, empty stomach) |
| Sleep quality improvement | 25mg | 1x nightly | Oral (30 min before bed) |
| Conservative start | 12.5mg | 1x daily | Oral (assess tolerance first) |
| Research protocol | 25mg | 1x daily | Oral (clinical study standard) |
Timing: Take at bedtime (around 10:40 PM) on empty stomach to align with natural growth hormone patterns and minimize daytime appetite stimulation.
Peptide Interactions
How to Reconstitute
Important: Always use bacteriostatic water (BAC). Sterile technique is essential.
Take capsule 30 minutes before bedtime
Use empty stomach (2+ hours after last meal)
Swallow with full glass of water
Maintain consistent daily timing
Store capsules at room temperature in dry place
Track sleep quality and appetite changes
Dosing Calculator
Calculate your injection volume with visual dosing guide
To obtain 250 mcg from this solution:
Draw 0.10 mL=10 units
(1 mL = 100 units on any insulin syringe)
Draw to this mark for 250 mcg
This calculator is for research purposes only. Always verify calculations and consult protocols.
Quality Indicators
Pharmaceutical Grade Capsules
Professional capsules with clear labeling, batch numbers, and third-party testing certificates.
Proper Documentation
Certificate of analysis showing >98% purity and proper storage conditions.
Research Chemical Sources
Products labeled 'for research only' may have questionable quality control.
Dietary Supplement Claims
FDA prohibits MK-677 in dietary supplements. Any such product is mislabeled.
Unknown Purity/Source
Products without certificates pose significant health and legal risks.
What to Expect
- •Week 1-2: Improved sleep quality, vivid dreams, possible appetite increase
- •Week 2-4: Enhanced recovery, better sleep architecture, initial body composition changes
- •Week 4-8: Noticeable lean mass gains, continued sleep benefits
- •Week 8-12: Maximum body composition improvements, sustained GH elevation
- •Side effects: Appetite stimulation (>50%), water retention (30-40%), possible lethargy (20-30%)
Side Effects & Safety
Side Effects
- •FDA warns of 'significant safety risks due to potential for congestive heart failure'
- •Contraindicated in heart disease, diabetes, active cancer, severe cardiovascular disease
- •Decreases insulin sensitivity - monitor blood glucose closely
- •May cause 5-15mg/dL fasting glucose elevation
- •Requires baseline and ongoing monitoring: glucose, HbA1c, liver function, IGF-1
- •Not approved by FDA - investigational drug status only
When to Stop
- •Signs of heart failure
- •Significant glucose elevation
- •Severe water retention
- •Any cardiac symptoms
- •As directed by healthcare provider
References
5 StudiesFDA Warning Letter - Agebox Inc (Dec 2025)
Regulatory | FDA Enforcement | Products containing MK-677 are illegal/adulterated
December 2025 FDA warning letter confirms MK-677 is unapproved for human use. Products containing it are illegal and adulterated, regardless of 'research chemical' labeling.
Alzheimer's Disease Trial - Negative (2009)
Human | 563 patients | 12 months double-blind | 25mg/day - NO efficacy for AD progression
Failed to meet endpoints despite IGF-1 increases. No improvements on ADAS-Cog, CIBIC-plus, CDR-sob, or ADCS-ADL scales. Demonstrated target engagement without clinical benefit.
View StudyBody Composition in Older Adults (2008-2009)
Human | 65 adults 60-81 years | 25mg/day | Up to 2 years | +1.1kg fat-free mass but NO strength/function gains
Raised GH/IGF-1, preserved thigh muscle area, but WORSENED insulin sensitivity. No improvements in muscle strength or functional capacity.
View StudyQuick Start Guide
Research Disclaimer
MK-677 is sold for laboratory research purposes only and is not intended for human or animal consumption. The information provided on this page is compiled from published research, veterinary studies, and anecdotal reports for educational purposes. This content does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Any research involving MK-677 must comply with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations. BioInfinity Lab makes no claims regarding the safety or efficacy of MK-677 for any purpose. Consult qualified professionals for any research applications.