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MK-677

Natty
growth hormonemuscle gainsleepbone densityanti-agingoral

What It Does

Increases lean muscle mass, bone density, and deep sleep quality. Enhances recovery and tissue healing. Risk of blood sugar issues.

Natty Status Classification

This peptide is generally considered within the natty realm by some in the fitness community, particularly when used for therapeutic healing purposes. However, opinions vary, and competitive natural bodybuilding organizations may have different stances. Always check your federation's specific rules if you compete.

Description

Oral ghrelin receptor agonist boosting GH/IGF-1 and sleep quality. Causes insulin resistance and glucose issues. Not FDA-approved, development discontinued.

Full Description

Ibutamoren (MK-677) is a potent, long-acting, orally-active, selective non-peptide agonist of the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) and growth hormone secretagogue.

It mimics ghrelin's action by binding to receptors in the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, increasing growth hormone secretion by 50-97% and significantly elevating IGF-1 levels while preserving natural pulsatile GH secretion patterns.

Clinical trials in elderly populations demonstrated significant increases in lean body mass (1.1 kg gain vs 0.5 kg loss with placebo over 12 months), improved bone mineral density, and enhanced markers of bone formation.

Notable for dramatically improving sleep quality with 20-50% increases in REM sleep and 50% increases in slow-wave sleep.

However, ibutamoren consistently impairs glucose metabolism, causing fasting blood glucose elevation, decreased insulin sensitivity, and increased HbA1c in multiple trials, leading to dose reductions or discontinuation.

One clinical trial was terminated due to serious adverse events including cardiovascular concerns and congestive heart failure cases in elderly patients.

Not FDA-approved and development appears discontinued due to safety concerns, particularly cardiovascular risks and metabolic effects.

Common side effects include increased appetite, water retention, insulin resistance, and potential increased cancer risk from elevated IGF-1.

Recommended 8-12 week cycles at 10-25mg daily, typically taken before bed for sleep benefits.

What is Lyophilized Powder?

Lyophilized powder is a sterile, freeze-dried medication that must be reconstituted (mixed with a liquid solvent, like sterile water) before it can be injected. This process extends the drug's shelf life and stability, making it ideal for temperature-sensitive products. The lyophilization process removes water from the peptide in a frozen state through sublimation, which preserves the physical and chemical properties until it is needed.

Application Methods

  • Oral

Product Names

  • Ibutamoren Mesylate
  • MK-677

Benefits

  • GH secretion increased 50-97% above baseline
  • Significant IGF-1 elevation with preserved pulsatile secretion
  • Lean body mass increase (1.1 kg over 12 months in elderly)
  • Improved bone mineral density and bone formation markers
  • Dramatic sleep improvement (20-50% increase in REM sleep)
  • 50% increase in slow-wave sleep in young subjects
  • Enhanced recovery and tissue healing
  • Improved skin, hair, and nail quality
  • Increased appetite (can be beneficial or adverse)
  • Oral administration (no injections required)

Dosage Levels

  • Low dose: 10-15mg daily (ideal for sleep, longevity, first-time users)
  • Moderate dose: 20-25mg daily (clinical trial standard, body recomposition)
  • High dose: 30mg+ daily (advanced users, not recommended due to side effects)
  • Timing - Before bed: Maximizes sleep benefits, reduces daytime hunger
  • Timing - Morning: Increases appetite throughout day (useful for bulking)
  • Cycle duration: 8-12 weeks recommended, up to 16 weeks for intermediate
  • Half-life: 24 hours (once daily dosing sufficient)
  • Monitor fasting glucose and insulin sensitivity during use

Research

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Last Updated: 10/19/2025