Peptide Knowledge Base · GH-axis

MK-677 (Ibutamoren): what it is, what the evidence says, and its real status

An oral GH secretagogue people lump in with peptides, it isn't one.

Can you actually get it?

Plain-English verdict: Education only.

Regulatory status: Category 2 (interim 503A policy) · may present significant safety risks.

How does MK-677 (Ibutamoren) work?

A non-peptide ghrelin-receptor agonist taken orally that sustains elevated growth hormone and IGF-1 levels.

What it does — and what it does not do

What it does: Raises GH and IGF-1 and stimulates appetite; studied for body composition and sleep.

What it does not do: It is not a peptide, not FDA-approved, and not offered here.

How honest is the evidence?

Evidence grade C — Mixed / early human evidence.

human GH/IGF-1 data exists; long-term outcome and safety data limited

A grade measures how much human evidence exists, not whether a molecule is good, safe, or worth your interest. Read our grading methodology for what each grade means.

What we still don't know: Effects on long-term glucose metabolism and cardiac parameters need more data.

WADA status: Banned (S2).

Who should not take it

Caution with diabetes/insulin resistance and heart failure (fluid retention); WADA S2 banned.

Sources

Ibutamoren (MK-677) GH/IGF-1 clinical literature

Compounded medications are not FDA-approved. We keep two signals separate and never collapse them: whether you can get something, and what the rule currently says. See the live FDA Peptide Tracker for status.

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Last reviewed Jun 16, 2026 · Peptós.LIFE · Not medical advice.