Evidence supporting the use of: Ibutamoren
For the health condition: Convalescence

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Ibutamoren (also known as MK-677) is a selective agonist of the ghrelin receptor that stimulates the secretion of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). Its use to support convalescence—recovery from illness or injury—has some scientific basis, primarily from early clinical studies and animal research. The rationale is that increased GH and IGF-1 levels can support tissue repair, muscle mass preservation, and overall anabolic processes, which are beneficial during recovery periods.

Several studies in elderly subjects and those with GH deficiency have shown that Ibutamoren increases lean body mass and sometimes improves muscle strength. For example, a randomized controlled trial in healthy elderly subjects (Murphy et al., 2001, J Clin Endocrinol Metab) demonstrated increased GH and IGF-1 levels, along with improved fat-free mass. Other studies have explored its effects on protein metabolism and muscle wasting, such as in patients with hip fracture, but results on functional recovery are mixed and generally modest.

While these findings provide some support for the use of Ibutamoren in convalescence, the evidence is not robust enough for widespread clinical adoption. Most data come from small trials or studies with surrogate endpoints (e.g., increased muscle mass rather than improved functional recovery). Thus, while scientific rationale and preliminary evidence exist, more large-scale, well-controlled studies are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety for this indication.

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