Dimitar Marinov, Ph.D.Are MK-677 capsules the best choice for increasing growth hormone secretion in research settings?
In this article, we examine the research on this growth hormone secretagogue, providing scientific insights and answering questions like:
- What is MK-677?
- What are the benefits of MK-677?
- Is MK-677 safe?
- How should MK-677 be dosed and stored?
Continue reading to learn more about the evidence-based benefits of MK-677 and discover whether it's worth incorporating it into research.
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What is MK-677?
MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is a ghrelin receptor agonist and growth hormone secretagogue (GHS) that acts on the pituitary gland to stimulate the release of GH. A key advantage of MK-677 is its high bioavailability when ingested orally. Unlike exogenous growth hormone therapy, it also does not have a significant effect on cortisol levels [1].
To understand the interest surrounding MK-677, we first need to discuss the importance of growth hormone (GH).
As humans age, GH serum concentration declines and possibly contributes to the age-related decline of muscle and bone tissue.
Administration of GH itself is known to:
- Stimulate the development of muscle tissue
- Reduce fat tissue
- Increase bone density
This raises the question of whether treatment with GH secretagogues like MK-677 could offer therapeutic benefits in reversing unfavorable body composition [2].
MK-677 Research and Development
MK-677 was initially developed by a team at Merck Research Laboratories in the 1990s that sought to create a nonpeptide mimetic of GHRP-6 with high oral bioavailability and an extended half-life [1, 3].
There is now a strong body of research investigating the properties of MK-677 in settings including growth hormone deficiency in children and adults, the promotion of bone formation, and enhancement of fat loss [3].
It has been proposed as a therapy for growth hormone deficiency but research is still in the preclinical stage, and it has yet to be approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for any indication.
It is currently classed as an Investigational New Drug but may be purchased by qualified professionals for research purposes [3].
MK-677 Benefits | Clinical Study Results
Compelling clinical data shows the positive impact of MK-677 on growth hormone levels, bone health, body composition, and sleep quality.
Continue reading to learn more about MK-677's benefits and potential.
MK-677 for Increasing Growth Hormone
Age-related GH decline in humans is well-established and is believed to play a part in negative changes in body composition and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
A University of Virginia research team conducted a pioneer study in 1996 that looked into the effects of oral MK-677 administration on GH and IGF-1 concentrations in the blood. 32 healthy adults between the ages of 64-81 received once daily 2mg, 10mg, or 25mg MK-677 or placebo [2].
After two weeks, study participants receiving 10mg or 25mg MK-677 had significantly increased levels of GH and IGF-1, highlighting the potential of GH secretagogues like MK-677 in restoring levels of GH and IGF-1 in the blood [2].
MK-677 for Bone Health
GH is an important regulator in bone remodeling and formation. In a 1999 study by Murphy et al., healthy, elderly men and women were given a dose of 10-50mg MK-677 over a 2- to 4-week treatment period. Biochemical markers for bone resorption and bone turnover were significantly increased in study participants receiving oral MK-677 compared to placebo-controlled participants [4].
MK-677 for Body Composition
Obesity has a negative impact on the release of GH, which poses the question of whether treatment with GH secretagogues can positively impact the body composition in obese individuals.
In a 1999 clinical study by Svensson et al., obese males were given 25mg MK-677 or a placebo daily for 8 weeks. Participants taking MK-677 displayed an increase in lean body mass, highlighting a favorable change in body composition. The researchers theorized that higher doses of MK-677 could result in reduction of visceral body fat [5].
MK-677 for Sleep Quality
Additionally, MK-677 has been shown to have positive effects on sleep quality. Copinschi and colleagues studied the impact of a bedtime dose of MK-677 (5mg or 25mg) or placebo in eight young subjects (18-30 years old). MK-677 administration resulted in an increased duration of stage IV sleep by approximately 50% and REM sleep by 20% [6].
MK-677 Side Effects
While MK-677 has not been approved for human use, the clinical data to date shows a largely positive safety record for the compound
In 2008, Nass et al. conducted a comprehensive study investigating the long-term benefits of MK-677 treatment on body composition in healthy older adults. This study established that long-term administration of 25mg MK-677 daily was well tolerated with minimal side effects.
Documented side effects of oral MK-677 are typically mild and transient, including [7]:
- Lower extremity edema
- Muscle pain
- Increased appetite
Metabolic side effects include:
- Increased fasting blood glucose (0.3 mmol/L (5 mg/dL)
- Increased blood cortisol levels
- Decreased low-density lipoprotein cholesterol
- Reduced insulin sensitivity
In a 2011 study by Adunsky et al., MK-677 showed an unfavorable safety profile causing an increased rate of congestive heart failure (CHF). However, it is noteworthy that the study population consisted of patients recovering from hip surgery [8].
MK-677 Dosage Guide
Given its status as a research peptide, there are no official dosing guidelines and safety protocols in place for MK-677.
A few important factors to consider when developing a novel MK-677 protocol are:
- Oral bioavailability (>60%)
- Dose-dependent effects [9]
- Half-life (4.7h) [10]
- Treatment duration [3]
- Daily administration time [2]
Studies have used various concentrations of MK-677 ranging from 2mg to 50mg, and the available data can be used to advise dosing for future studies. It takes some time to observe a significant increase in GH levels. The majority of previous studies highlight an MK-677 treatment duration of two weeks to 18 months [3].
A dose-dependent relationship between the release of GH and the MK-677 dose is well established. A daily dose of 25mg MK-677 results in higher GH serum concentration and higher IGF-1 serum concentration compared to 2.5mg or 10mg MK-677 per day [2, 9].
In addition, a morning dose appears to have superior effects on serum GH and IGF-1 concentrations [2].
Overall, a daily oral dose of 25mg MK-677 is well tolerated and can be recommended as a starting dose based on compelling evidence from randomized and controlled trials [10].
Sample MK-677 Dosing Protocol
Researchers using 12.5mg MK-677 capsules may refer to the following dosing protocol for improving body composition in test subjects:
- MK-677 Dosage: 25mg per day. Since one capsule contains 12.5mg of MK-677, subjects require two capsules daily.
- Timing: The full dose may be taken once in the morning on an empty stomach.
- Research Course Duration: 16-20 weeks.
- Notes: A 60-capsule container represents a 30-day supply at the 25mg daily dose and a 60-day supply at the 12.5mg daily dose.
MK-677 Capsules | A Comprehensive Review
In this section, we take a deeper look into MK-677 capsule characteristics, best practices for storage and administration, and how to select a reliable vendor of research molecule capsules.
MK-677 Structure and Bioavailability
The chemical formula of MK-677 is C27H36N4O5S.CH3SO3H. MK-677 is a nonpeptide compound derived using growth hormone-releasing peptide-6 (GHRP-6) and spiroindanylpip.
Spiroindanylpip was hypothesized to be a privileged structure because of its recurring structural units that contribute to receptor binding. In 1995, Patchett et al. modified a sprio compound by replacing D-Trypthophan with O-benzyl-D-serine and adding a methanesulfonamide group leading to the synthesis of MK-677 [1, 11].
A large number of clinical studies administering MK-677 orally have underlined its high bioavailability and suitability for administration in capsule form [3]. Animal research has confirmed the high oral bioavailability of MK-677 (more than 60%) and a half-life of 4.7 hours [11].
MK-677 Capsule Administration and Storage
It is recommended that researchers follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe storage and administration. MK-677 capsules are stable at room temperature, and it is important to maintain ideal conditions to avoid the risk of degradation.
To maintain the integrity and quality of MK-677 capsules, it is crucial to store them in their original container specifically designed to shield the capsules from light, moisture, high temperatures, and other detrimental factors. Researchers should store the container in a cool, dry location, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture, to preserve its shelf life.
At present, there is no standardized protocol for the administration of MK-677 capsules. Some independent researchers studied the long-term benefits of daily MK-677 administration, dosed at 25mg and taken between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. [7]. Compelling research has established that a daily, oral dose of 25mg MK-677 in the morning can be recommended [2, 10].
Selecting a Reliable Vendor for MK-677 Capsules
When incorporating MK-677 into their research, researchers should exercise caution and select a reputable vendor that offers research-grade capsules.
It is essential to choose a vendor that follows transparent sourcing practices, maintains ethical and compliant marketing standards, and provides access to laboratory test results online. Unfortunately, not all vendors adhere to these high standards, which is why researchers should carefully evaluate vendors before making a selection.
Obtaining MK-677 capsules from questionable vendors can pose safety risks and compromise the effectiveness of experiments. Research peptides from such vendors may contain harmful contaminants or impurities that can negatively impact research and increase the risk of adverse effects.
Here is a list of items to pay attention to when selecting a vendor:
- The vendor’s track record and customer reviews
- Availability of third-party laboratory results
- Shipping options and policies
- Available payment options
- Customer service quality
In addition, avoid vendors that do not support product claims with available research. MK-677 has been extensively studied and the outlined benefits are well established in the scientific literature.
Where to Buy MK-677 Capsules Online? | 2024 Edition
MK-677 administration has been shown in limited studies to positively impact GH levels, bone health, and sleep quality.
For researchers looking to implement MK-677 into their work, it is crucial to purchase MK-677 capsules from a reputable vendor.
Here are our top recommendations:
Chemyo
We recommend visiting Chemyo to obtain research-grade MK-677, and here is why:
- Lab-Tested MK-677: Chemyo utilizes third-party lab testing to uphold the highest standards of product quality and control. Each product batch is submitted for independent testing and the results are accessible online.
- Convenient Payments: This vendor accepts a variety of payment methods, including major credit cards, e-checks, and BTC.
- Fast & Reliable Shipping: Chemyo ensures reliable and prompt shipping. US-based researchers typically receive their purchases within 2-3 business days. Shipping fees are affordable, and are waived on US orders exceeding $100.
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Limitless Life
Limitless Life is another vendor that we fully endorse due to its commitments to quality and customer care.
Here’s why we hold them in such high regard:
- Assurance of Quality: Limitless Life does not skimp on their quality control. They use esteemed third-party labs to verify the purity of their peptides.
- Free Shipping: Customers that spend over $350 on their order will have their shipping fees waived.
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MK-677 Capsules | Verdict
A potent growth hormone secretagogue, MK-677 has been studied extensively and its research application potential is well-established.
A key advantage of MK-677 is its high bioavailability when ingested orally, and a daily dose of 25mg is established as well-tolerated and safe.
MK-677 capsules effectively increase growth hormone levels and can thereby improve body composition, bone health, and sleep quality in test subjects.
To source research-grade MK-677 capsules for the next experiment, check out our top-recommended vendor.
David Warmflash, M.D.