MK-677 — Vendor Pricing & Purity Guide
Research Overview
MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is a non-peptide, orally active growth hormone secretagogue that mimics the action of ghrelin at the GHS-R1a receptor. Despite frequently being sold alongside peptides, MK-677 is technically a small molecule — not a peptide — which gives it the critical advantage of oral bioavailability. It was developed by Merck and has been through multiple Phase II clinical trials.
MK-677 stimulates growth hormone release through the same ghrelin receptor pathway as peptide GHRPs (GHRP-6, GHRP-2, Ipamorelin), but because it's orally available, it doesn't require injection. A single daily oral dose produces sustained GH elevation for approximately 24 hours, with peak GH levels occurring within 1-2 hours of administration. Unlike exogenous GH, MK-677 maintains pulsatile GH release and preserves the natural feedback axis.
The compound significantly increases appetite (a direct effect of ghrelin receptor activation), elevates IGF-1 levels, and can affect insulin sensitivity with prolonged use. These properties have led to research in muscle wasting, osteoporosis, sleep quality, and age-related GH decline.
Key Research Findings
- •Increased GH and IGF-1 levels to young-adult ranges in elderly subjects over 2 years of daily oral dosing (Nass et al., 2008)
- •Improved nitrogen balance in calorie-restricted subjects, suggesting anti-catabolic effects (Murphy et al., 1998)
- •Enhanced sleep quality with 50% increase in stage IV (deep) sleep and 20% increase in REM sleep
- •Increased bone mineral density at the femoral neck in elderly adults over 12 months of treatment
- •Reversed diet-induced protein catabolism within 7 days in healthy volunteers
- •Elevated IGF-1 levels by 40-60% above baseline with sustained effect over 12 months of daily dosing
Research Dosage Protocols
MK-677 is orally active and does not require reconstitution or injection. It is typically supplied as capsules, tablets, or liquid solution for research use.
In clinical trials, the standard dose was 25 mg taken orally once daily, typically in the morning or before bed. Some research protocols used 10 mg/day as a starting dose. Effects on GH and IGF-1 are dose-dependent, with 25 mg producing near-maximal GH stimulation.
Key considerations for researchers: MK-677 increases appetite significantly due to ghrelin receptor activation. It can elevate fasting blood glucose and reduce insulin sensitivity with prolonged use. These metabolic effects should be monitored in research protocols exceeding 8 weeks.
For research reference only. Not medical advice. Not for human consumption.
Published Research (2 studies)
- [1]Effects of MK-677 on body composition and clinical outcomes in elderly adults— Nass et al., 2008PMID: 18981485
- [2]Stimulation of growth hormone secretion by MK-677, a nonpeptidyl GHS-R agonist— Chapman et al., 1996PMID: 8675586
Links go to PubMed (NIH National Library of Medicine). PeptideVerdict is not affiliated with these studies.
Price Comparison (15 products from 5 vendors)
| Vendor | Price | Stock |
|---|---|---|
| Pure Rawz | $142.96 $0.26/mg 545mg vial | In Stock |
| Pure Rawz | $78.61 $0.51/mg 155mg capsule | In Stock |
| Chemyo | $79.99 $3.20/mg 25mg liquid | In Stock |
| NextChems | $71.95 $3.60/mg 20mg liquid | In Stock |
| Swiss Chems | $69.95 $7.00/mg 10mg capsule | In Stock |
| NextChems | $69.95 $7.00/mg 10mg capsule | In Stock |
| Soma Chems | $59.99 vial | In Stock |
| Swiss Chems | $229.85 vial | In Stock |
| Swiss Chems | $215.87 vial | In Stock |
| Chemyo | $149.99 vial | In Stock |
| Chemyo | $149.99 vial | In Stock |
| Chemyo | $149.99 vial | In Stock |
| Chemyo | $59.99 vial | In Stock |
| Chemyo | $149.99 vial | In Stock |
| Chemyo | $139.99 vial | In Stock |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MK-677 a peptide?
No. MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is a non-peptide small molecule that activates the same ghrelin receptor as peptide GH secretagogues. It is orally bioavailable, meaning it can be taken by mouth — unlike injectable peptides.
What is the difference between MK-677 and Ipamorelin?
Both stimulate GH release via the ghrelin receptor, but MK-677 is an oral small molecule while Ipamorelin is an injectable peptide. MK-677 has a longer duration of action (~24 hours vs ~2 hours) but increases appetite more significantly and has greater effects on insulin sensitivity.
Does MK-677 require cycling?
In clinical trials, MK-677 was used continuously for up to 2 years. However, prolonged use can affect insulin sensitivity and blood glucose levels. Research protocols often include periodic metabolic monitoring.
Where can I buy MK-677 for research?
MK-677 is available from most research peptide/SARM vendors in capsule, tablet, or liquid form. Compare pricing in the table above.