Evidence supporting the use of: MK-677
For the health condition: Convalescence

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Synopsis

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

MK-677 (also known as Ibutamoren) is a non-peptide agonist of the ghrelin receptor and a growth hormone secretagogue, meaning it stimulates the secretion of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). There is scientific interest in MK-677 for supporting convalescence, particularly due to its potential anabolic effects on muscle and bone, which can be beneficial during recovery from illness, injury, or surgery (states of catabolism or muscle wasting). Several clinical studies have demonstrated that MK-677 increases circulating GH and IGF-1 levels in both healthy and elderly individuals, and it has been shown to increase lean body mass in older adults.

A 2008 randomized controlled trial by Chapman et al. found that daily MK-677 administration over 12 months increased lean body mass and improved transient measures of physical function in elderly subjects, though it did not significantly improve strength or functional outcomes. Other research has explored MK-677 in the context of conditions characterized by catabolism, such as hip fracture recovery and cachexia, with some positive effects on body composition but modest or inconclusive effects on functional recovery.

While MK-677 shows promise for supporting the physiological aspects of convalescence (such as muscle mass preservation), evidence for robust clinical benefits in recovery speed or functional outcomes remains limited. Adverse effects, particularly related to glucose metabolism and fluid retention, also warrant consideration. Thus, scientific evidence supports a rationale for its use in convalescence, but further studies are needed to confirm clinical benefit.

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