- MK-677 (ibutamoren) isn’t a SARM; it mimics ghrelin to raise your own growth hormone and IGF-1.
- In a year-long study of older adults, it increased fat-free mass by about 1 kg without changing strength much.
- It raises appetite, fluid retention and blood sugar, and can worsen insulin resistance.
- It isn’t approved as a drug in Canada and isn’t listed in the CDSA.
MK-677 is sold alongside SARMs, but it works through the growth hormone system. It’s popular for sleep, appetite and body composition, and it has more human research than most products in that aisle. This guide covers what that research shows.
How it works
Ibutamoren activates the ghrelin receptor, the “hunger hormone” receptor, which signals the pituitary to release growth hormone. That raises IGF-1 for about a day per dose. Unlike injectable HGH, it’s taken by mouth.
What studies show
- In healthy older adults, a year of daily use raised GH and IGF-1 to levels typical of younger adults and increased fat-free mass by about 1 kg, without significant gains in strength or function.
- In healthy volunteers on a calorie-restricted diet, it reduced protein breakdown.
- Users often report deeper sleep, which fits its effects on GH release.
Merck never brought it to market. A trial in older adults recovering from hip fracture was reportedly stopped early after more heart failure cases in the treatment group.
Side effects
- Increased appetite, sometimes strongly
- Water retention and swelling
- Higher blood sugar and insulin resistance: a concern for anyone with diabetes risk
- Joint aches, tingling or numb hands
- Lethargy in some users
Check fasting glucose and HbA1c before and during use. Avoid it with diabetes, prediabetes, heart failure or a history of cancer.
MK-677 vs HGH
MK-677 raises your own GH in pulses, while injected HGH replaces it directly. HGH generally has larger effects and costs more. See our HGH guide.
Legal status in Canada
Ibutamoren isn’t approved as a drug in Canada and isn’t listed in the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. It’s banned in tested sport.
Buying MK-677 in Canada
We stock Zionova MK 677 and Mk-677 Genetix Pharma, both 10 mg tablets in bottles of 50. See the SARMs page for live prices and a cost-per-day calculator.
Frequently asked questions
Is MK-677 a SARM?
No. It’s a growth hormone secretagogue that mimics ghrelin.
Does MK-677 build muscle?
Studies show modest increases in fat-free mass, partly fluid, with little change in strength.
Does MK-677 raise blood sugar?
Yes. It can raise fasting glucose and worsen insulin sensitivity.
Is MK-677 legal in Canada?
It isn’t approved as a drug and isn’t listed in the CDSA.
Products mentioned in this guide
This article is general information for adults in Canada, not medical advice. Talk to a doctor or pharmacist before using any prescription drug, anabolic steroid or research compound, and get bloodwork done. If you’re in crisis, call or text 9-8-8 (Suicide Crisis Helpline) any time.
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