MK-677(Ibutamoren) - How does it work? How and when to use it?

Firstly, it is essential to explain that MK-677 is not a SARM (Selective Androgen Receptors Modulator), as it does not directly affect androgen receptors.

MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is a potent anabolic and anticatabolic product. As a selective, non-peptide ghrelin agonist, Ibutamoren acts through the stimulation of the ghrelin receptors (GHS-R1a). Ghrelin is a hormone produced by the epithelial cell that appears to be a stimulant for appetite and feeding but is also a potent stimulant of growth hormone secretion from the anterior pituitary through the activation of the entire GH-IGF-1 axis. 

To simplify, ibutamoren will mimic ghrelin activity lead to accelerated release of growth hormone, and will firmly increase the level of IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor).

Ibutamoren is often mockingly called "a cheap version of injectable growth hormone." However, its benefits may induce many additional benefits that injectable GH can not.

Positive effects of MK-677:

- Increased GH and IGF-1 levels (may even increase them much over optimal laboratory ranges, but not as much as injectable GH could)

- accelerated gains in muscle mass

- improved regeneration process

- improved sleep quality (if used correctly)

- firmly increased appetite (useful for hard-gainers)

- reduced catabolism

- improved skin condition

- increased bone density

- neutral for liver, intestines, and stomach

- will not block HPTA (PCT is not necessary)

- may freely be stacked along with AAS (but shouldn't be stacked with most of peptides)

Adverse effects of MK-677:

- reduced insulin sensitivity

- if used improperly may lead to diabetes (especially in high dosages. That's why it is essential to examine insulin and glucose level regularly)

- may induce lethargy (especially if taken in the morning)

- high water retention

- may induce pain of joints and muscles

- increased hunger (it is not the best good compound to use while cutting)

- is risky to use If there's any cancer history of your first-degree relatives

Dosing:

Dosage of 10mg daily should not induce any water retention but may successfully reduce catabolism. However, the dosage is too small to induce significant changes in muscle mass.

20-30mg daily will be an optimal dosage to obtain all of the positive effects and avoid most side effects. Thanks to its half-life (up to 24hours), it can (and should) be taken once daily (before sleep).

There are only a few clinical examinations of MK-677. However, many amateur athletes have tested this compound, and blood tests have proved that over one month of 30mg daily intake may increase both GH and IGF-1 levels high above the standard laboratory range.