MK-677 or Ibutamoren… What is it and Do I Need it in My Life?
By Dr. Melissa Loseke
October 27, 2021
Ibutamoren, or MK-677, named so because it is an investigational new drug that is undergoing clinical trials currently. However, it has been widely used and touted in the fitness and bodybuilding community. It is a potent and selective agonist of Ghrelin, and it mimics the growth hormone stimulating action of endogenous ghrelin. It increases the release of growth hormone and IGF-1 in the body, all without negatively affecting cortisol… So what the heck does that mean?
When taken it can lead to an increase in lean body mass with potential positive effects on LDL cholesterol. This increase in muscle mass can improve bone mineral density, which is why it has been studied in fraility of elderly and preventing wasting associated with aging. Some of the other benefits of Ibutamoren include enhanced recovery and regeneration through out the body, and at the cellular level. Adding MK-677, can also improve REM sleep by up to 50%.
Before getting too excited and scheduling your consultation to learn more, know that it is not without potential side effects. Ibutamoren is an oral, once-daily neuropeptide that crosses the blood brain barrier and has a long half life, meaning the time it takes to eliminate from your body is extended. The concern is that this 24 hour half life can overstimulate the ghrelin receptors in the brain. Leading to side effects including but not limited to increase in hunger, lethargy, edema or water retention, increase in joint or muscle pain, decrease in insulin sensitivity and increase in prolactin levels. That potent stimulation in growth can occur in all tissues, including abnormal cells such as cancer cells. MK-677 should be avoided in anyone with active cancer or known pituitary dysfunction.
Ibutamoren is conveniently taken once daily with standard dosing ranging from 10-30 mg, however obtained from a trusted compounding pharmacy in 12.5 mg or 25 mg capsules. It is at those doses that it is most effective at increasing growth hormone and IGF-1 levels. MK-677 can be combined with other growth hormone agonists such as Sermorelin or testosterone replacement therapy for enhanced benefit. Because of its potent effects is it not recommended to take longer than 3 months. Schedule your appointment with one of Blokes’ trained provider to learn more or determine if you are a candidate for Ibutamoren.
Dr. Melissa Loseke, DO/PhD
If you are wondering more about Ibutamoren, or other peptides, contact us today or schedule a consultation.