MK-677 (ibutamoren)

MK-677 (ibutamoren)

Evidence & Status

  • Moderate Evidence
  • Moderate

At a Glance

A non-peptide, orally active small-molecule ghrelin-receptor agonist with bounded human GH/IGF-1 biomarker and body-composition findings. It remains investigational and is not FDA-approved.

Plain English

Researchers study MK-677 as an oral small-molecule ghrelin-receptor agonist, not as a peptide. Defined-population trials report bounded biomarker and body-composition findings, but the hip-fracture trial did not establish its targeted functional benefit and the evidence does not establish a validated therapy or longevity benefit.

Overview

Ibutamoren (MK-677) is an orally active, non-peptide small-molecule ghrelin-receptor agonist; it is not a peptide. The approved clinical sources evaluate specific populations and outcomes, including growth-hormone-deficient children, older adults, hip-fracture patients, and hemodialysis patients. It is not FDA-approved.

Research Summary

The retained trials show bounded human GH/IGF-1 biomarker and body-composition findings in defined populations. The hip-fracture trial did not establish its targeted functional benefit. These results do not establish benefit for healthy-person performance, longevity, or an off-label regimen. Current sport status must be checked against the live WADA Prohibited List.

Research Areas

  • Growth hormone deficiency
  • Lean muscle mass
  • Bone mineral density
  • Sleep architecture
  • IGF-1 axis modulation
  • Sarcopenia

Safety & Risks

Serious Risks

  • Fasting-glucose increase and reduced insulin sensitivity in supported human findings.
  • Edema/fluid retention in supported human findings.

Reported Side Effects

  • Increased appetite
  • Edema/fluid retention
  • Elevated fasting glucose
  • Reduced insulin sensitivity
United States
Investigational; not FDA-approved.
United Kingdom
Investigational; not FDA-approved.
Australia
Investigational; not FDA-approved.
Canada
Investigational; not FDA-approved.

Citations & Sources