MK-677 (Ibutamoren):
Everything You NEED To Know
What is MK-677?
MK-677, also known as Ibutamoren, is an orally available growth hormone secretagogue and a ghrelin receptor agonist. This means:
MK-677 increases the body's own production of growth hormones and IGF-1.
MK-677 activates the ghrelin receptor, which leads to increased feelings of hunger [R].
MK-677 is not a SARM and does not suppress the natural production of testosterone. It neither binds to androgen receptors nor mimics the effects of anabolic steroids.
Benefits of MK-677
- Increased growth hormone release: MK-677 stimulates the production of growth hormones and IGF-1.
- Muscle building: By boosting hormone levels, MK-677 promotes the growth of lean muscle mass.
- Increased appetite: MK-677 enhances hunger, which can be beneficial for muscle gain.
- Improved sleep quality: Studies suggest that MK-677 promotes deep sleep, enhancing recovery and performance.
- Stronger bones: MK-677 can increase bone mineral density, reducing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis.
- Increased fat loss
How does MK-677 work?
1. Effects through the ghrelin receptor
As mentioned before, MK-677 binds to the ghrelin receptor and activates it.
Ghrelin is the body's own "hunger hormone." The ghrelin hormone is produced in the stomach and normally regulates quite well when we should eat and when we should stop. With MK-677, the ghrelin receptor is stimulated much more strongly than with the body's own hormone. This leads to an increase in feelings of hunger. [R]
This property of MK-677 makes it particularly interesting for people who have trouble gaining weight. It also makes this substance a perfect combination with other anabolic compounds.
2. Effects through increased growth hormones
MK-677 is known to increase the secretion of growth hormones.
Growth hormone is secreted by the somatotrophs of the anterior pituitary gland. This happens several times a day. This growth hormone is then released into the bloodstream and works in different ways in the body.
One of these effects is that growth hormone stimulates the production of Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) in the liver. IGF-1 improves muscle growth, skin, and regeneration. It also reduces fat.
With the intake of MK-677, the pulses in which growth hormones are secreted are enhanced. During each pulse, where normally a "normal" dose of growth hormones would be released, even more is now secreted. [R]
But what benefits does increased growth hormone actually bring?
Growth hormone can promote muscle growth, better recovery, improved bone mineral density, increased libido, improved sleep quality, better heart health, and enhanced cognitive function.
Side Effects of MK-677
Common side effects:
- Water Retention
- Nausea
- Increased Blood Pressure
- Muscle and Joint Pain
- May increase insulin resistance
Water Retention & Muscle and Joint Pain
A common side effect of MK-677 is water retention. This can be caused by increased growth hormone and IGF-1 levels. Due to intracellular water retention, muscle and joint pain can also occur as this leads to higher stress on muscles and joints.
The accumulation of water can also lead to temporary formation of edema. [R]
Increased Blood Pressure
Another side effect of MK-677 is possible increased blood pressure. This is a consequence of water retention and edema [R].
Can MK-677 Cause Diabetes?
How exactly does MK-677 affect blood sugar and insulin resistance?
MK-677 works by mimicking a hormone called ghrelin. Ghrelin is known as the "hunger hormone" because it increases appetite.
When ghrelin is active, it signals to the body that it needs energy. As a result, the body begins to release glucose (sugar) and fatty acids from energy stores in the liver. This process leads to increased blood sugar levels. [R]
MK-677 additionally promotes the release of Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1). IGF-1 can stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin.
Insulin causes blood sugar levels to decrease. [R]
But this is where the problem can arise: When blood sugar is constantly elevated by ghrelin, cells in the body can become "confused" and over time become less sensitive to insulin. [R]
This is known as insulin resistance. Insulin resistance can be a precursor to Type 2 diabetes.
What are the long-term risks of MK-677 regarding diabetes?
Taking MK-677 over a long period or at too high a dose can increase the risk of insulin resistance. This also applies to people who are overweight, those who eat many carbohydrates, have little exercise, or have a genetic predisposition to diabetes.
The good news is that after discontinuing MK-677, elevated blood sugar levels can return to normal values. This suggests that the negative effects on blood sugar may be reversible as long as permanent diabetes hasn't developed. [R]
What can be done to prevent diabetes from MK-677?
If someone plans to take MK-677, it's very important to regularly monitor blood sugar. Blood sugar levels should always remain within a healthy range. If this is the case, the development of Type 2 diabetes is very unlikely.
Summary
- MK-677 can increase the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes as it affects the body's blood sugar regulation.
- It is recommended to regularly monitor blood sugar levels and ensure they remain within a healthy range. This can significantly reduce the risk of developing diabetes.
- Negative effects on blood sugar levels appear to be reversible as long as permanent diabetes hasn't developed.
Forms of MK-677
MK-677 is available in different forms. The most popular variant is the liquid solution, which can be easily taken orally with, for example, a dropper.
Additionally, MK-677 is also available in pill and powder form.
How long does MK-677 take to work?
MK-677 works relatively quickly in the body. The first effects should be noticeable after a short period. Below you'll find an overview of when you can expect the typical effects:
Note that this timeframe and effects depend on various factors, which is why results may vary from person to person.
| Timeframe | Effects |
|---|---|
| 1 - 2 days | • Increased appetite |
| 1 - 2 weeks |
• Improved sleep quality • Increased energy levels and libido |
| 2 - 4 weeks |
• Improved recovery • Water retention and fuller muscles |
| 4 - 8 weeks |
• Increased strength during training • Initial muscle gain and fat loss |
| 8 + weeks |
• Significant muscle and strength gains • Increased bone density |
The History of MK-677
MK-677 is a growth hormone peptide developed by pharmaceutical company Merck KGaA. The pharmaceutical company is based in Darmstadt, Germany. It was originally developed as a potential treatment for growth hormone deficiency, muscle wasting, and osteoporosis.
Initial studies showed promising results. As early as 1995, Beagle dogs were administered MK-677. An increase in growth hormone and IGF-1 secretion was observed. Based on these valuable findings, research continued until human studies. However, pharmaceutical company Merck KGaA discontinued its research on MK-677 [R].
Do Bodybuilders use MK-677?
MK-677 has enjoyed considerable attention among bodybuilders for quite some time. The main reason for its popularity probably lies in the fact that MK-677 can be taken orally and can be well combined with other substances (such as RAD-140, Ligandrol, Ostarine).
However, professional bodybuilders rarely choose MK-677. They prefer to use even stronger substances.
How to Store MK-677
MK-677 is relatively thermodynamically stable. When properly stored (airtight sealed, dry, and protected from excessive heat and light), MK-677 can last for several years. Some manufacturers mention up to 2 years.
For storage longer than 2 years, MK-677 should be stored cold, e.g., in the freezer. Note that with very cold storage, small parts of the solid substance might separate from the liquid. Through gentle shaking and warming, this part should dissolve again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What other names is MK-677 known by?
MK-677 is commonly known by several other names, including:
- Ibutamoren
- L-163,191
- Nutrobal
- Oratrope
What is the half-life of MK-677?
The half-life of MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is approximately 24 hours. [R]
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