What People Report About MK-677 (Ibutamoren) — Self-Reported Community Data
MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is a growth hormone secretagogue that stimulates the release of growth hormone and IGF-1. Based on self-reported experience logs on Narrated, it is most commonly logged for muscle growth, sleep improvement, and anti-aging. MK-677 is not FDA-approved for human use and is classified as a SARM-adjacent compound.
What is MK-677 (Ibutamoren)?
MK-677, also known as Ibutamoren, is an orally active growth hormone secretagogue. According to published pharmacological research, MK-677 is described as working by mimicking the hormone ghrelin and binding to ghrelin receptors in the brain, which stimulates the pituitary gland to release growth hormone. It is also reported in the literature to increase levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1).
MK-677 is not a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM), though it is frequently grouped with SARMs in consumer discussions. It does not directly bind androgen receptors.
What is the regulatory status of MK-677?
As of March 2026:
- United States: Not FDA-approved for human use. Available as a research chemical. Not scheduled as a controlled substance at the federal level.
- United Kingdom: Not a licensed medicine. Available as a research chemical. Not currently a controlled substance.
- WADA: Prohibited in sport under the category of growth hormone releasing factors.
- Australia: Schedule 4 (prescription only) since 2020.
What do people report when using MK-677?
Based on self-reported experience logs on Narrated:
| Most common reported goal | Muscle growth / body composition |
|---|---|
| Second most common goal | Sleep improvement |
| Third most common goal | Anti-aging / recovery |
| Commonly reported cycle length | 8-16 weeks |
The most commonly reported protocol in self-reported logs on Narrated: 10-25mg/day oral, taken before bed. Many logs describe starting at a lower dose and increasing gradually. This reflects what people reported — not a dosage recommendation.
What are the reported side effects of MK-677?
From self-reported logs on Narrated:
| Increased appetite | Most frequently reported |
|---|---|
| Water retention / bloating | Commonly reported |
| Lethargy (first 1-2 weeks) | Moderately reported |
| Numbness / tingling in hands | Occasionally reported |
| None reported | Minority of logs |
Increased appetite is the most commonly reported side effect of MK-677 in self-reported logs — which is consistent with its described mechanism as a ghrelin mimetic according to published research. Many logs describe appetite increases within the first few days.
Does MK-677 affect sleep?
Sleep improvement is one of the most frequently reported secondary observations in self-reported logs. People commonly describe deeper sleep, more vivid dreams, and feeling more rested. Published research has investigated MK-677's effects on sleep architecture, with some studies reporting changes in REM sleep duration.
What does the research say about MK-677?
MK-677 has been studied in several clinical trials for growth hormone deficiency, muscle wasting, osteoporosis, and sleep quality. Key research context:
- Multiple human clinical trials published (more than most compounds in this category)
- Studies on elderly populations reported increased IGF-1 levels and changes in body composition markers
- Some researchers have raised questions about the long-term implications of sustained IGF-1 elevation
- Long-term safety data in healthy populations remains limited
- Research depth rating on Narrated: Moderate
Is this medical advice?
No. Narrated aggregates self-reported community data. We present what people reported, the regulatory status, and the research context. We do not recommend, rank, or advise the use of any compound. Always consult a healthcare professional before making health decisions.