Muscle growth

MK-677

Also known as Ibutamoren, Nutrobal

Written by Matt Ward — I run these protocols myself and built Optim to track them.

An orally active, non-peptide growth hormone secretagogue that mimics ghrelin to stimulate sustained GH and IGF-1 release. MK-677 is popular for muscle building, recovery, and improved sleep quality. Not a true peptide but frequently categorized alongside them.

Typical dose10-25 mg
FrequencyOnce daily (oral)
Half-life~24 hours
Cycle length8-16 weeks (some use longer)
Research levelextensive
Prescription requiredNo

Mechanism of action

Binds the ghrelin/GHS-R1a receptor to stimulate GH release from the pituitary in a pulsatile manner. Increases IGF-1 levels sustained over 24 hours, promotes nitrogen retention, and enhances deep sleep architecture.

What this means in practice

MK-677 is orally active, which sets it apart from nearly everything else in this library — no reconstitution, no injections. That convenience is also why it's frequently misused: the long half-life means it's taken daily, and the appetite increase is pronounced and sustained rather than transient. It's a growth hormone secretagogue rather than a peptide in the strict sense. Water retention and elevated fasting glucose are the effects most commonly reported, and both are dose-dependent.

Reported side effects

Commonly stacked with

CJC-1295 · Longevity & anti-agingIpamorelin · Longevity & anti-agingIGF-1 LR3

Track MK-677 properly

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This page is informational and summarises publicly available research. It is not medical advice, not a prescription, and not a recommendation to use any compound. Most compounds described here are not approved by the FDA for human use. Legal status varies by jurisdiction and is yours to determine. Talk to a qualified clinician before starting, stopping, or changing any protocol. For adults 18+. Optim does not sell, source, or recommend suppliers.