Due to the demands of a performance-based world, many people want to ward off the effects of aging. Others like bodybuilders want to enhance their appearances for competitions and improve their self-image. Most of the substances that help achieve the desired results are not always safe. However, with the advent of the internet and restrictive laws on prescription drugs, people go to great lengths to acquire performance-enhancing substances.
Black markets and underground laboratories have emerged because of the shift from pharmacy to online procurement. Likewise, there is a rise in fake products, misinformation and risky practices. MK 677 is one of the many drugs that thrive under such conditions, making it a potential threat for users. Besides, some researchers believe that MK 677 results and effectiveness are insufficient.
Many debates surround MK 677 concerning its properties and to which categories it belongs. Specifically, some argue that it is a non-peptide growth hormone stating that it is a “hunger hormone.” Others complain that MK 677 is mistaken to be a Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator. Even researchers differ in their categorization views concerning MK 677.
MK 677 – how it works
In adult life, the growth hormone function is crucial in promoting carbohydrates and metabolism. It also maintains bone mass and lean body mass and promotes the breakdown of fats to release fatty acids using hydrolysis.
MK 677 is an orally administered growth hormone stimulator known as Ibutamoren. It enhances growth hormone levels as it mimics the properties of ghrelin. Researchers claim that ghrelin also significantly influences the endocrine pancreas and increases glucose levels but impedes insulin levels. MK 677 contains a synthetic GH secretagogues (GHS) receptor similar to the natural atom of GH secretagogues discovered in ghrelin.
Another study reveals that Ibutamoren assumes the action of ghrelin and fixes itself to one of its (GHRS) receptors in the brain. This activity on the GHRS causes the brain to release the growth hormone. At the same time, MK 677 stimulates insulin-like growth 1 levels and protein kinase. In particular, MK 677 through GHRS can interact with the brain regions that control food intake (appetite), sleep, moods, exercise, memory, cognition and body composition. These factors interact to affect growth hormone secretion.
Proponents of MK 677 argue that it only affects the appetite by increasing it, a natural outcome of ghrelin. In past studies, researchers claimed that MK 677 increases the growth hormone without affecting cortisol levels in plasma or urine. Then, MK 677 was thought safe for treating growth hormone deficiency in older adults. To date, some studies advocate for this argument.
However, recent studies highlight an increased reluctance towards the use of MK 677. Opponents declare that MK 677 is unsuitable for human consumption and that scientists do not have conclusive evidence as to the extent of its potency. MK 677 is available online and is popular amongst bodybuilders
Benefits of Ibutamoren
Increase in lean muscle mass
MK 677 is popular among bodybuilders because it quickly promotes bigger muscle growth. But this benefit is not just limited to bodybuilders as the same effect applies to all users. MK 677 is a suitable supplement to sarcopenia treatment (exercises with a focus on resistance training). It reduces growth hormone loss, fat-free mass, and increases appetite. It also reduces muscle wasting in cancer patients. Obese individuals and those with anorexic disorders reported an increase in energy intake.
Improved bone density
Studies reveal that MK 677 reduces osteoporosis and increases bone mineral density, beneficial for postmenopausal women. In the case of athletes, MK 677 significantly reduces the risk of broken bones and fractures. Strong bones enhance an athlete’s body capacity to accommodate the lean muscle gain using MK 677.
Improves sleep patterns
Growth hormone enhances high-quality sleep. Users report a positive increase in sleep within a few weeks of using MK 677.
Side effects of Ibutamoren
Interferes with the natural course of aging
Studies suggest that a decline in growth hormone secretion is a natural occurrence in aging. Indeed, they agree that with this decline comes some discomfort in body composition. However, the decline of growth hormone is a safeguard against conditions like cancer. Therefore, the use of Ibutamoren mesylate is likely to have adverse effects.
Lack of adequate information
Experts on the subject of MK 677 explain that ghrelin is an appetite stimulant. But to date, some studies indicate that researchers provide no conclusive information on Ibutamoren. For instance, there are ongoing discussions concerned with the administration of MK 677 as an effective treatment for obesity.
Consequently, the same studies highlight disagreement on the long-term effects of using ghrelin. In research studies on rodents, an increase in ghrelin secretion was observed, but no change in body weight. Yet, the intention of administering MK 677 is to improve body weight. Most of the studies highlight the need for more research on the subject.
Poor monitoring
Statistics reflect that 90% of bodybuilders who use growth hormone stimulators acquire it through the internet. In addition, they do not consult with a medical practitioner. When they experience adverse side effects which are not visual, it is hard to detect. Naturally, there is a potential risk factor regarding procurement and administration.
Water retention
Ghrelin uses hydrolysis to break down lipids. But, MK 677 mimics ghrelin to promote weight gain, storing fat, higher retention of water, giving the user a puffy complexion. Bodybuilders use Dandelion Root Tea to shed the water weight, but it does not work for every user.
Conclusion.
MK 677 positively affects lean body mass and an increase in appetite for the ailing, the older adult and the bodybuilders. However, there is substantial controversy on its adverse effects. Most users of MK677 for bodybuilding depend on online forums to make decisions. Here, the anecdotal testimonies promote misinformation and risky practices—barriers to communication between health care professionals and users of MK677 compound the situation.
Medical practitioners lack the appropriate means to administer safety monitoring of the drug due to the procurement and administration of dosage being beyond their control. However, better access to health care will improve monitoring and drug safety.