Evidence supporting the use of: MK-677
For the health condition: Weight Gain
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
MK-677 (also known as Ibutamoren) is a selective agonist of the ghrelin receptor and stimulates the secretion of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). Its use to support or treat weight gain is primarily backed by scientific research, mostly in the context of clinical trials and investigational studies.
Several studies in both healthy individuals and patients with various conditions have shown that MK-677 increases appetite (by mimicking ghrelin, the "hunger hormone") and leads to an increase in lean body mass. In adults and elderly subjects, MK-677 administration resulted in sustained increases in serum GH and IGF-1, which in turn promoted an increase in fat-free mass (i.e., muscle mass), and in some studies, modest increases in appetite and body weight have been observed. For example, a 2001 study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism demonstrated increased GH and IGF-1 levels and increased fat-free mass in elderly subjects after MK-677 use. Additionally, some studies in patients with catabolic conditions (e.g., those with cancer or chronic disease) show potential for MK-677 to counteract muscle wasting and weight loss.
However, while these findings demonstrate a scientific basis for using MK-677 to support weight gain (particularly lean mass), the quality and quantity of evidence is moderate. Most studies are short-term, and long-term safety and efficacy data are limited. MK-677 is not FDA approved for this indication, and more research is needed to fully establish its therapeutic role in weight gain and cachexia.
Other ingredients used for Weight Gain
ashwagandhamaltodextrin
whey protein
17a-di methyl-bol
Arginine Creatine
Avocado
Animal protein
Beef Protein
Egg
glucose