What is MK-677 (Ibutamoren)?
MK-677, also known as Ibutamoren, is not a SARM but a growth hormone secretagogue. That means it stimulates your body’s natural growth hormone (GH) and IGF-1 production — two key hormones responsible for muscle growth, recovery, fat metabolism, and sleep quality.
Unlike anabolic steroids, MK-677 doesn’t suppress testosterone or cause androgenic side effects. Instead, it mimics ghrelin (the hunger hormone) and signals the pituitary gland to release more GH, making it a favorite among bodybuilders and athletes who want growth hormone effects without injections. SARMs vs Peptides: Best Choice for Muscle Retention
How MK-677 (Ibutamoren) Works
MK-677 binds to the ghrelin receptor (GHSR) in the brain. Once activated, it triggers:
- Growth Hormone (GH) release → boosts muscle recovery and growth
- IGF-1 production → supports muscle cell repair and strength
- Improved sleep & REM quality → better recovery and hormonal balance
- Increased appetite → helps hard gainers eat more calories
In short: MK-677 tells your body to act like you’re injecting HGH — but without needles.
Top Benefits of MK-677 (Ibutamoren)
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Muscle Growth | Increases lean mass by elevating GH and IGF-1 levels. |
| Faster Recovery | Speeds up muscle repair after intense training. |
| Better Sleep | Improves REM cycles and deep sleep quality. |
| Joint & Skin Health | GH supports collagen production, helping with joints and skin texture. |
| Fat Loss Support | GH helps improve metabolism and fat oxidation. |
| No Testosterone Suppression | Safe to stack with SARMs without lowering natural test. |
MK-677 (Ibutamoren) Dosage and Cycle
MK-677 can be used solo or stacked. The standard cycle runs from 8 to 24 weeks, depending on goals.
| Goal | Daily Dosage | Cycle Length | Best Time to Take |
| Muscle Gain / Bulking | 20–25 mg | 16–24 weeks | Before bed |
| Recomposition / Recovery | 10–15 mg | 12–16 weeks | Before bed |
| Anti-Aging / GH Support | 10 mg | Long-term (6+ months) | Before bed |
Pro Tip: Always take MK-677 at night because it can make you sleepy and hungry. Taking it before bed also syncs with natural GH release. MK-677 Benefits – Muscle Growth, Fat Loss & Sleep Guide 2025
Best MK-677 (Ibutamoren) SARM Stacks
1. Bulking Stack: MK-677 + RAD-140 + LGD-4033
| Compound | Dosage | Duration |
| MK-677 | 20 mg/day | 16–20 weeks |
| RAD-140 (Testolone) | 10 mg/day | 8–12 weeks |
| LGD-4033 (Ligandrol) | 10 mg/day | 8–12 weeks |
Why it works:
MK-677 enhances GH and IGF-1, while RAD-140 and LGD-4033 boost muscle protein synthesis. Expect solid lean gains, insane recovery, and fuller muscles. RAD 140 vs LGD 4033: Which SARM Is Better for Mass?
Cycle Tip:
- Continue MK-677 beyond the SARM cycle for recovery.
- PCT is required only for SARMs (not MK-677).
2. Lean Recomp Stack: MK-677 + Ostarine (MK-2866)
| Compound | Dosage | Duration |
| MK-677 | 15 mg/day | 12–16 weeks |
| Ostarine (MK-2866) | 20 mg/day | 8–12 weeks |
Why it works:
This stack helps you lose fat and gain lean mass simultaneously. MK-677 boosts recovery and sleep while Ostarine promotes lean retention in a calorie deficit.
3. Strength Stack: MK-677 + RAD-140 + YK-11
| Compound | Dosage | Duration |
| MK-677 | 20 mg/day | 20 weeks |
| RAD-140 | 15 mg/day | 8–10 weeks |
| YK-11 | 10 mg/day | 6–8 weeks |
Why it works:
This combo is for advanced users who want explosive strength and dense muscle fibers. MK-677 keeps GH elevated to recover from heavy lifts, while YK-11 boosts myostatin inhibition for rapid growth.
MK-677 Stack Chart Summary
| Goal | Cycle Length | Compounds | Expected Results |
| Bulking | 16–20 weeks | MK-677 + RAD-140 + LGD-4033 | 5–8 kg lean mass gain |
| Recomp | 12–16 weeks | MK-677 + Ostarine | 3–5 kg lean gain, fat loss |
| Strength | 16–20 weeks | MK-677 + RAD-140 + YK-11 | Power, muscle density, recovery |
Custom MK-677 Cycle Graphic Chart
Cycle Progress Overview (Example: Bulking Stack)
| Week | MK-677 | RAD-140 | LGD-4033 | Notes |
| 1–4 | 20 mg/day | 10 mg/day | 10 mg/day | Strength and appetite increase begin |
| 5–8 | 20 mg/day | 10 mg/day | 10 mg/day | Noticeable fullness, GH effects start |
| 9–12 | 20 mg/day | 10 mg/day | 10 mg/day | Recovery and size gains accelerate |
| 13–16 | 20 mg/day | Off | Off | MK-677 continues recovery and GH boost |
| 17–20 | 20 mg/day | Off | Off | Maintain muscle and support sleep/recovery |
Possible Side Effects of MK-677
MK-677 is generally safe, but some users may experience mild side effects — mostly dose-dependent.
| Side Effect | Cause / Explanation |
| Increased Hunger | Due to ghrelin activation (great for bulking). |
| Water Retention | Temporary GH-related bloat, usually mild. |
| Insulin Sensitivity Drop | Prolonged use can affect glucose tolerance. |
| Tingling / Numbness | GH-induced nerve pressure (rare, dose-related). |
| Lethargy / Sleepiness | Strong GH release makes you feel drowsy. |
Tips to Minimize Side Effects:
- Start with 10 mg/day for the first 1–2 weeks.
- Stay hydrated and manage carb intake.
- Monitor blood sugar if running long cycles.
MK-677 PCT (Post-Cycle Therapy)
Since MK-677 does not suppress testosterone, PCT is not required.
However, if stacked with SARMs like RAD-140 or YK-11, run a mild PCT (e.g., Nolvadex or Clomid) for 3–4 weeks after your SARM cycle ends.
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
You’ll typically start noticing:
- Better sleep → within 1 week
- Increased appetite → within 3–5 days
- Muscle fullness & recovery → 3–4 weeks
- Visible physique changes → 6–8 weeks
- Noticeable muscle size → 10–12 weeks and beyond
MK-677 is a slow burner — its true magic shows after consistent long-term use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is MK-677 (Ibutamoren) a SARM or steroid?
A: No, it’s a growth hormone secretagogue that boosts natural GH and IGF-1 levels.
Q2: Can I take MK-677 year-round?
A: Yes, it’s safe for long-term use (6–12 months) if glucose and water retention are managed.
Q3: Do I need a PCT after MK-677 (Ibutamoren)?
A: Not for MK-677 alone, but required if you stacked it with suppressive SARMs.
Q4: Is MK-677 (Ibutamoren) good for fat loss?
A: Indirectly, yes — by improving metabolism and preserving muscle mass.
Q5: Can women use MK-677?
A: Yes, at lower doses (5–10 mg daily). It’s non-androgenic and safe for females.
Final Thoughts on MK-677 (Ibutamoren)
MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is one of the most powerful non-hormonal tools for muscle growth, recovery, and sleep enhancement.
When combined with SARMs like RAD-140 or LGD-4033, it becomes a muscle-building powerhouse without testosterone shutdown.
Whether you’re bulking, cutting, or recomping — MK-677 can elevate your results, naturally amplifying growth hormone and recovery to new heights. Best SARMs for Muscle Growth in 2025 (Dosage, Cycle & Results)
