MGF (Mechano Growth Factor) vs MK-677 (Ibutamoren)
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Anabolic & IGF
MGF (Mechano Growth Factor)Growth Hormone Peptides
MK-677 (Ibutamoren)- Summary
- MGF (Mechano Growth Factor) is a splice variant of IGF-1 that is locally produced in muscle tissue in response to mechanical damage from exercise. It activates muscle satellite cells (stem cells) to proliferate and repair damaged fibers, making it specifically targeted at exercise-induced hypertrophy.
- 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
- Native MGF: minutes. PEG-MGF: ~3 days
- 24 hours
- Admin Route
- SubQ, IM
- Oral
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 200–400 mcg
- 10–25 mg
- Frequency
- 1–2 times per week
- Once daily
- Key Benefits
- Activates muscle satellite cells for repair and growth
- Accelerates recovery from muscle damage
- Synergistic with IGF-1 LR3 (different mechanisms)
- Promotes muscle hypertrophy specifically at exercised muscles
- Faster recovery between training sessions
- Potential for injury repair in connective tissue
- 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
- Muscle soreness (satellite cell activation)
- Injection site irritation
- Hypoglycemia risk (modest, less than IGF-1 LR3)
- 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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