Liraglutide vs MK-677 (Ibutamoren)
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
GLP-1 / Weight Loss AgonistsFat Loss & Metabolic
LiraglutideGrowth Hormone Peptides
MK-677 (Ibutamoren)- Summary
- Liraglutide is a long-acting GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for type 2 diabetes (Victoza) and chronic weight management (Saxenda). It reduces appetite, slows gastric emptying, improves insulin secretion, and promotes weight loss of 5–10% in clinical trials.
- MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is an orally active, non-peptide ghrelin receptor agonist that increases growth hormone and IGF-1 levels. Unlike injectable GHRPs, it can be taken orally and has a 24-hour half-life, making it convenient for sustained GH optimization.
- Half-Life
- ~13 hours (once-daily dosing)
- 24 hours
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- Oral
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- Start 0.6 mg, titrate to 3 mg
- 10–25 mg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Once daily
- Key Benefits
- Promotes weight loss (5–10% average)
- Reduces appetite and caloric intake
- Improves blood glucose control (HbA1c reduction)
- Reduces cardiovascular events in T2DM (LEADER trial)
- Slows gastric emptying
- FDA-approved for T2DM and chronic weight management
- Cardioprotective effects shown in clinical trials
- May improve fatty liver (NAFLD/NASH)
- Increases lean muscle mass
- Enhances bone density
- Improves sleep quality and REM sleep
- Accelerates recovery from training
- Increases appetite
- May improve skin elasticity and appearance
- Supports fat loss while maintaining muscle
- Oral administration — no injections required
- 24-hour half-life allows once-daily dosing
- Side Effects
- Nausea (very common, especially initially)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Decreased appetite
- +5 more
- Increased appetite (significant in some users)
- Water retention and puffiness
- Elevated blood glucose / insulin resistance (monitor in diabetics)
- Lethargy initially
- +2 more
- Stacks With
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