MK-677 and Cancer | What You MUST Know

Dr. Mike Jansen

Last Updated September 14, 2022

Dr. Mike Jansen

 September 14, 2022

Curious about MK-677 and cancer?

Do you want to know what the latest research says about MK-677 and cancer, including whether they are related?

Then you’ve come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we detail everything you need to know about MK-677 and cancer, including whether or not MK-677 actually increases your risk of getting cancer.

We also answer your most important questions, including:

  • Is MK-677 safe?
  • Can MK-677 be combined with other supplements?
  • Is MK-677 the same thing as human growth hormone?

…And much more!

Our team has looked through several studies and proven data which offer in-depth, science-based answers to these questions and more, so that you are able to access the most current and accurate information available.

Whether you’re looking to understand whether or not MK-677 can cause cancer, or if it can be used to alleviate certain symptoms, you’ll find all that below.

Disclaimer: The contents of Testosterone.org are for informational and educational purposes. We do not provide legal advice. Likewise, we do not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your physician prior to consuming any over-the-counter supplements, like a natural testosterone booster, and/or getting a prescription for a pharmaceutical medication. Your access to Testosterone.org is subject to our full disclaimer and terms of use.


MK-677 and Cancer

There are certain rumors circulating that MK-677 can cause or exacerbate cancer in humans. Naturally, you might be wondering – is it true that MK-677 can cause cancer?

The short answer is no, MK-677 does not cause cancer.

In fact, out of all the legitimate clinical studies involving MK-677, not a single one has shown evidence that MK-677 can cause cancer. If anything, properly dosing MK-677 can possibly alleviate certain symptoms from cancer and other ailments, like HIV [1].

However, before we explore these benefits, we need to address why this rumor even exists in the first place. Why do people think that MK-677 can cause cancer?

MK-677 And IGF-1

As will be explained more in-depth further in this article, MK-677 causes growth hormone (GH) to be released into the body, which then leads to increased levels of another important hormone called IGF-1.

Some studies have shown an increased risk of cancer growth due to elevated levels of IGF-1, since it increases cell differentiation.

This means that more cells are replicating themselves at any given time, leading to an increased risk of colorectal, breast, and prostate cancer as there is a heightened chance for mutations to occur [2].

However, to be realistic, the chances of getting cancer from MK-677 due to increased IGF-1 production are almost zero.

Cancer Research

Now, how can MK-677 actually help those suffering from cancer? We can refer to a few studies in particular.

For example, in one clinical trial, a once daily oral dose (25 mg) of MK-0677 was administered to healthy young men subjected to short-term diet-induced nitrogen wasting. After just 7 days of treatment, a sustained increase in serum concentrations of GH and IGF-I was noted, as well as reversal of nitrogen wasting.

One conclusion drawn from this study was that MK-677 might prove useful for treating wasting associated with HIV and cancer [1].

In another study, obese males were treated once daily with 25 mg MK-677 for 8 weeks.

Researchers found that MK-677 caused an increased metabolic rate in the participants, as well as increase in lean mass and reversal of nitrogen loss. Their findings also suggested that MK-677 would provide benefit to cancer cachexia patients [3].

Overall, when dosed appropriately, MK-677 does not pose a significant risk of causing cancer. On the contrary, it can help to maintain muscle mass by preventing catabolism and nitrogen wasting.


MK-677


What is MK-677?

Bodybuilders have been using a number of different substances in order to achieve their performance goals – some with minor or barely any side effects, and others which can cause more serious complications.

One of these substances is growth hormone (GH).

Although it certainly is a potent substance for muscle-building, it also has a number of drawbacks. Firstly, GH can be costly to run over an extended period of time. Also, administering GH can only be done through routine injections.

Additionally, GH must be maintained at low temperatures, or else it will spoil and be rendered unusable [4].

In light of these issues, among others, scientists sought to develop a less invasive and more tolerable method of increasing GH levels in the body.

MK-677 Origins

In 1995, MK-677 was synthesized and produced by the Pharmaceutical Company “Reverse Pharmacology” under the trade name “Nutrobol”. MK-677 is also referred to in some publications as ibutamoren and MK-0677 [5].

Although marketed as ‘legal growth hormone’, MK-677 is not exactly the same thing as GH. MK-677 is a growth hormone secretagogue and ghrelin receptor agonist, which means two things:

Firstly, MK-677 signals the pituitary gland to release higher levels of GH, as opposed to synthetic GH, which is injected directly into the bloodstream.

Just for reference, the pituitary gland is a small, pea-sized gland located at the base of your brain below your hypothalamus. It’s a part of your hormonal system, and is responsible for releasing a number of different hormones into your system, including GH.

Secondly, MK-677 is also an oral ghrelin mimetic. Ghrelin is a hormone excreted by the stomach in order to regulate your appetite. This is another reason why MK-677 has become so popular with bodybuilders, as it can ramp up your appetite and thus increase your caloric intake [5].

MK-677 And IGF-1

MK-677 not only causes GH levels to increase, but also leads to elevated levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), an essential hormone in our bodies which facilitates several metabolic effects.

When MK-677 is ingested, it causes GH to be secreted by the somatotrophe of the anterior pituitary gland through several pulses throughout the day.

GH then enters the bloodstream, causing the liver to produce IGF-1.

With elevated levels of IGF-1, cellular hyperplasia is stimulated, which basically means that cells reproduce at a faster rate – including muscle cells.

It’s important to note that MK-677 does not cause more GH pulses to happen. Instead, it stimulates a greater total 24 hour GH production rate [6].

In other words, ingesting MK-677 can strengthen and augment each GH pulsation that occurs in the body.


How to Take MK-677 | What You MUST Know

While GH can often lead to a number of unpleasant side effects, and requires routine injections in order to be effective, MK-677 is far less risky and invasive.

MK-677 can be stacked with other substances like SARMs and steroids without any conflicts in order to achieve your goals faster, such as bulking up or slimming down.

As of right now, in early 2022, MK-677 is only commercially available in the form of capsules and liquid. This means it can be conveniently taken along with a meal, or even mixed into a beverage.

According to the dosing guidelines set out above, we wouldn’t recommend exceeding more than two cycles of MK-677 per year.

While you’ll still feel its benefits, you can be sure to avoid any possible side effects by being cautious with the amount taken. The optimal daily dose of MK-677 usually lies between 10 and 25mg/ml. It can be taken once per day, or split up into two doses – one in the morning, and one in the evening [3].


MK-677


Best MK-677 Supplement | 2022 Edition

In an effort to discover which MK-677 supplements offer the best value at the most reasonable price point, our team has looked into which online vendors have the best MK-677 supplements available.

These sources have been evaluated according to strict criteria:

  • Are the products reasonably priced?
  • Do the products have lab reports or certificates of analysis available?
  • Do they offer fast shipping available worldwide?
  • Do they already have a number of satisfied customers who have posted positive reviews of their experience using MK-677?

We came to the conclusion that one of the most reputable vendors of MK-677 is Chemyo. Here’s why:

  • Positive reviews. At the time this article was written, in early 2022, Chemyo MK-677already has over 45 positive reviews from verified customers posted on their site.
  • Fast shipping. Your order can qualify for free shipping on domestic orders in the United States over $100, and free international shipping on orders exceeding $275.
  • Transparent lab reports. With Chemyo, you can view a number of up-to-date lab reports certifying the purity of Chemyo’s products, such as Chemyo MK-677. They provide full documentation for each product and batch, including IR, GC-MS, LC-MS and HLPC, as opposed to other companies that only provide a certificate of authenticity.
  • Superior quality. Chemyo’s products are all produced in accordance with high standards of quality in an FDA-approved facility in the United States.

We strongly suggest purchasing two bottles of Chemyo MK-677, so that you’ll have enough to run a proper 3 month cycle.

You can visit them here to learn more and purchase Chemyo MK-677:

Order MK-677 from our top-rated USA vendor...


MK-677 Benefits

You might be asking – what are the benefits of MK-677?

Before we jump into all the powerful effects that MK-677 can have on your physique and overall well-being, we need to be aware of the benefits one can derive just from increased levels of GH and IGF-1, which come as a result of using MK-677.

Healthy GH and IGF-1 levels are essential to the body developing properly, to the extent that GH is often referred to as the “fountain of youth.”

This is because the natural secretion of GH in the body decreases over time, especially after the age of 40, which also causes serum IGF-1 levels in the body to drop.

The result is pronounced lean muscle catabolism and increased mortality [6].

GH promotes and increases protein synthesis, which allows more muscle to be built.

Higher GH levels also cause higher rates of fat metabolization, which lowers bodyfat levels. It can also produce an improvement in one’s complexion by tightening up loose skin, accelerate hair growth, allow for deeper and uninterrupted sleep, and increase bone density, which can prevent fractures [7].

As briefly mentioned earlier, one of the key benefits of higher IGF-1 levels in the body is that it supports cellular division (hyperplasia). This is extremely unique in that IGF-1 is the only hormone with the ability to induce brand new muscle cell growth via muscular cell division.

MK-677 Benefits Research

As far as benefits gained specifically from MK-677, numerous studies have uncovered the following:

Because of its anti-catabolic properties, MK-677 can increase nitrogen retention even when the body is experiencing a calorie deficit. MK-677 can also reverse nitrogen wasting, which provides help for not only bodybuilders that want to maintain their muscle on a cut, but also for those suffering from chronic disease and muscle wasting [8].

Another powerful benefit from MK-677 that would particularly interest bodybuilders who consume highly androgenic substances is hair loss prevention. This is because IGF-1 has been shown to affect the sprouting of hair from the scalp and the entire the hair growth cycle.

Anecdotally, several users of synthetic GH injections and Ibutamoren have reported a faster growth rate of their hair, as well as improved overall hair density.

To further expand on the benefits to sleep gained from MK-677 and GH, we can refer to a study with eight participants between 18 and 30, as well as six elderly subjects.

After going through two 1-day treatment periods, researchers concluded that MK-677 consumption could boost REM sleep by as much as 50% [9].

Of course, since MK-677 increases GH and IGF-1 levels in the body, increases in muscular size and strength tend to be observed in individuals who are already exercising regularly and consuming a proper diet.

Gains of 5-10 pounds of fat-free mass within the first few weeks of MK-677 use are commonly reported – an effect similar to the weight gain commonly seen with the oral steroid, Dianabol.


MK-677 Side Effects

MK-677 has been proven to be safer than anabolic steroids, SARMs, and even exogenous GH.

The main reason for this is because MK-677 doesn’t bind to androgen receptors in the same way that steroids do, which is the main cause for adverse side effects in steroid users. Therefore, adverse side effects from steroid usage, such as changes in appetite, mood, libido, hair growth, skin health or sleep, and even enlargement of internal organs, can be avoided entirely [10].

This is because MK-677 does not impact endocrine function in any way, since it does not cause suppression of testosterone [11].

Nearly all studies conducted on MK-677 have not revealed any serious adverse effects from the consumption of this growth hormone secretagogue. However, there are a few side effects you should be aware of before using this powerful compound.

One of the most commonly reported side effects from MK-677 is lethargy.

Any substance that increases GH and IGF-1 levels will often lead to this. However, if MK-677 is taken before bed instead of at the beginning of the day, this lethargy can be mitigated.

Another common side effect from MK-677, and higher levels of GH and IGF-1 in general, is water retention. Some muscle pain may also come about as an indirect side effect caused by intracellular water retention, which increases pressure on the joints and muscles.

One of the most serious potential side effects from increased levels of GH and IGF-1 in general is elevated blood sugar.

GH causes blood sugar levels to go up, which then causes the pancreas release insulin in order to restore blood sugar levels back to normal.

However, overall, several trials with MK-677 have shown almost no serious side effects in participants, both young and elderly. In general, MK-677 is safe to take as long as it is dosed in accordance with the guidelines.

We would suggest starting with a low dose to evaluate how your body reacts to it, and then ramp up from there [12].

To corroborate the claim that MK-677 has little to no side effects, a study conducted in 2020 followed the administration of MK-677 for 6 months in 161 elderly patients recovering from hip fracture.

No adverse effects were observed in any of the participants [13].

Overall, MK-677 doesn’t cause the side effects normally seen with anabolic steroid use, nor are the side effects seen from GH use likely to be encountered with MK-677.


MK-677


MK-677 and Cancer | Overall

In conclusion…

The short answer is no, MK-677 does not cause cancer.

While extremely elevated levels of GH and IGF-1 can possibly lead to increased cancer risk, the amount of increased GH and IGF-1 due to MK-677 is nowhere near enough to worry about this issue.

Of course, it’s not recommended that the optimal MK-677 dosage of 25mg/ml per day be exceeded, as per official data from human trials regarding MK-677.

In addition, while MK-677 is mostly known for its muscle-building properties, a number of studies have also shown that this growth hormone secretagogue can actually beneficial in helping those suffering from cancer to avoid muscular and skeletal catabolism.

Ideally, those looking to conduct research on MK-677 should start at a low dose in order to evaluate tolerance, and then gradually increase the dose while keeping an eye out for any anomalies.

If you are ready to get started with MK-677, then we strongly recommend the brand Chemyo.

Chemyo manufactures their MK-677 product in regulated facilities, and puts all of their products through rigorous 3rd-party testing. With Chemyo, you know you are getting a superior product for your money.

So what are you waiting for?

Get a bottle of Chemyo MK-677 today and take your physique to the next level!


References

  1. Smith, R. G. (2005, May 1). Development of growth hormone secretagogues. OUP Academic. Retrieved May 3, 2022, from https://academic.oup.com/edrv/article/26/3/346/2355231?login=true
  2. Ishida, J., Saitoh, M., Ebner, N., Springer, J., Anker, S. D., and von Haehling, S. (2020) Growth hormone secretagogues: history, mechanism of action, and clinical development. JCSM Rapid Communications, 3: 25– 37. https://doi.org/10.1002/rco2.9.
  3. Svensson, J., Lönn, L., Jansson, J.-O., Murphy, G., Wyss, D., Krupa, D., Cerchio, K., Polvino, W., Gertz, B., Boseaus, I., Sjöström, L., & Bengtsson, B.-A. (1998, February 1). Two-month treatment of obese subjects with the oral growth hormone (GH) secretagogue mk-677 increases GH secretion, fat-free mass, and Energy Expenditure1. OUP Academic. Retrieved May 3, 2022, from https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/83/2/362/2865156?login=true
  4. Cronkleton, E. (2019, March 29). HGH: Side effects in men and women. Healthline. Retrieved May 5, 2022, from https://www.healthline.com/health/hgh-side-effects#side-effects
  5. M. G. Murphy, L. M. Plunkett, B. J. Gertz, W. He, J. Wittreich, W. M. Polvino, D. R. Clemmons, MK-677, an Orally Active Growth Hormone Secretagogue, Reverses Diet-Induced Catabolism, The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, Volume 83, Issue 2, 1 February 1998, Pages 320–325, https://doi.org/10.1210/jcem.83.2.4551
  6. Nass R, Pezzoli SS, Oliveri MC, et al. Effects of an oral ghrelin mimetic on body composition and clinical outcomes in healthy older adults: a randomized trial. Ann Intern Med. 2008;149(9):601-611. doi:10.7326/0003-4819-149-9-200811040-00003
  7. Smith RG;Sun Y;Jiang H;Albarran-Zeckler R;Timchenko N; (n.d.). Ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1A) agonists show potential as interventive agents during aging. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences. Retrieved May 9, 2022, from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18056963/
  8. Palta M, LeCaire T, Sadek-Badawi M, Herrera V, Danielson KK. The trajectory of IGF-1 across age and duration of type 1 diabetes. Diabetes/metabolism research and reviews. 2014;30(8):777-783. doi:10.1002/dmrr.2554.
  9. Copinschi, G., Leproult, R., Onderbergen, A. V., Caufriez, A., Cole, K. Y., Schilling, L. M., Mendel, C. M., Lepeleire, I. D., Bolognese, J. A., & Cauter, E. V. (2008, April 9). Prolonged oral treatment with MK-677, a novel growth hormone secretagogue, improves sleep quality in man. Neuroendocrinology. Retrieved May 5, 2022, from https://www.karger.com/Article/Abstract/127249
  10. Anabolic steroids. (n.d.). Retrieved May 11, 2022, from https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/pubs/brochures/steroids/public/
  11. Ian M. Chapman, Ora H. Pescovitz, Gail Murphy, Theresa Treep, Kristine A. Cerchio, David Krupa, Barry Gertz, William J. Polvino, Emily H. Skiles, Suzan S. Pezzoli, Michael O. Thorner, Oral Administration of Growth Hormone (GH) Releasing Peptide-Mimetic MK-677 Stimulates the GH/Insulin-Like Growth Factor-I Axis in Selected GH-Deficient Adults, The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, Volume 82, Issue 10, 1 October 1997, Pages 3455–3463, https://doi.org/10.1210/jcem.82.10.4297
  12. Patchett AA, Nargund RP, Tata JR, et al. Design and biological activities of L-163,191 (MK-0677): a potent, orally active growth hormone secretagogue. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 1995;92(15):7001-7005. doi:10.1073/pnas.92.15.7001 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC41459/
  13. Dr. Idiberto Jose Zotarelli Filho, M. S. (2020, May 23). Major approaches the use of GH secretagogue (MK-677) for muscle mass gain in elderly: A brief systematic review. Authorea. Retrieved May 3, 2022, from https://www.authorea.com/doi/full/10.22541/au.159050681.10910720
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