MK-677 (Ibutamoren) vs Exenatide
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Growth Hormone Peptides
MK-677 (Ibutamoren)GLP-1 / Weight Loss AgonistsCognitive Enhancement
Exenatide- Summary
- 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.
- Exenatide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist derived from the Gila monster lizard peptide exendin-4, with 53% homology to human GLP-1 and natural resistance to DPP-4 degradation. Available as twice-daily (Byetta) or once-weekly (Bydureon) formulation, it is also being studied for Parkinson's disease neuroprotection.
- Half-Life
- 24 hours
- ~2.4 hours (Byetta/twice-daily); Bydureon BCISE: weekly via microsphere release
- Admin Route
- Oral
- SubQ
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 10–25 mg
- 5 mcg, titrate to 10 mcg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Twice daily
- Key Benefits
- 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
- Blood glucose control in type 2 diabetes
- Weight loss (average 2–3 kg in clinical trials)
- Once-weekly extended-release formulation available
- Reduces appetite and food intake
- Possible neuroprotective in Parkinson's disease (Phase II trials)
- Reduces systemic inflammation
- May protect pancreatic beta cells
- Cardiovascular neutral or potentially protective
- Side Effects
- Increased appetite (significant in some users)
- Water retention and puffiness
- Elevated blood glucose / insulin resistance (monitor in diabetics)
- Lethargy initially
- +2 more
- Nausea (most common, especially initially)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- +4 more
- Stacks With
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