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MK-677 (Ibutamoren) vs RAD-140 (Testolone): A Detailed Comparison

MK-677 (Ibutamoren) vs RAD-140 : Detailed Comparison

Researchers and investigators are always on the hunt for research compounds that give them insight into the chemical world. They look for research substances that may hold beneficial information in a research context. The two compounds that come into the limelight for this purpose are: MK-677 and RAD-140.

In today’s blog, we will learn about the differences between these compounds. We’ll also take a look at what makes them different from each other and which compound is better!

What is MK-677 and how does it work? 

MK-677, also known by the name Ibutamoren, is a growth hormone secretagogue. A lot of people who are not familiar with MK-677 may confuse it with SARM. However, it is not a SARM! Due to its properties, such as muscle growth and increased muscle mass, the compound is often mistaken for one.

A study on MK-677 has found that it works by mimicking the ghrelin receptor. The same study has also suggested that MK-677 binds to the ghrelin receptors in the brain of research subjects. 

When this interaction takes place, it stimulates the natural release of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) [1] [2]. These hormones play a key role in muscle growth, tissue repair, and bone density in research subjects.

What is RAD-140 and how does it work? 

RAD-140, also known as Testolone, is a SARM (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator). Researchers found this compound interesting as they studied it for its potential to increase muscle mass and strength [3]. 

Rad-140 has been shown to work by selectively targeting androgen receptors in bone and muscle tissues in research settings. Researchers have found that RAD-140 activates these receptors and promotes anabolic activity without offering side effects associated with anabolic steroids. [4]

rad-140-f

MK-677 vs RAD 140: A Contrast Comparison

Till now, you may have known the difference between MK-677 and RAD-140. However, if there is still some confusion, then have a look at the following table. 

MK-677 RAD-140
A growth hormone secretagogueSelective androgen receptor modulator (SARM)
Non-peptide ghrelin receptor agonistNon-steroidal androgen receptor agonist
It has the potential to stimulate GH and IGF-1 by activating the ghrelin receptorIt may potentially bind to androgen receptors to promote anabolic activity
It may potentially act on the Endocrine (GH/IGF-1 axis)It may potentially act on the androgenic receptors in bone and muscle tissues
It is not a SARMIt is classified as a SARM
It is also known by the name Ibutamoren It is also known by the name Testolone
It may potentially offer muscle growth and enhancement by an Indirect approach (via GH/IGF-1)It may potentially offer muscle growth effects by directly targeting androgen receptor binding.
Studies have found that it does not suppress hormonesA few studies have observed that it may suppress testosterone levels in research subjects
Researchers have found its typical cycle length is from 8 – 12 weeks in various research studiesThe cycle length of RAD 140 is 6 – 10 weeks in various research studies
Researchers study this compound for its potential role in muscle wasting, aging, GH deficiency, and metabolic studiesResearchers study this compound for its potential role in muscle wasting, hormone replacement, and performance enhancement studies 
Just a research compound, not FDA approvedJust a research compound, not FDA approved 

Benefits of MK-677 and RAD-140

Both MK-677 and RAD 140 have particular benefits. A few of the benefits that researchers have so far studied are as follows: 

MK-677 | Potential Benefits 

  • Enhances skeletal muscle hypertrophy in research subjects
  • Improves musculoskeletal recovery in research subjects
  • Increases bone mineral density in research subjects
  • Promotes sleep architecture regulation in research subjects
  • Stimulates appetite via ghrelin receptor activation in research subjects
  • Attenuates muscle catabolism in research subjects
  • Modulates metabolic rate in research subjects

RAD-140 | Potential Benefits

  • Increases skeletal muscle mass via androgen receptor activation in research subjects
  • Enhances muscular strength and performance in research subjects
  • Preserves lean tissue during caloric restriction in research subjects
  • Supports bone density and structural integrity in research subjects
  • Promotes anabolic activity with minimal androgenic effects in research subjects
  • Reduces muscle wasting in catabolic conditions in research subjects
  • Improves physical endurance and output in research subjects

Side Effects of MK-677 and RAD-140

Researchers are closely observing the side effects of MK-677 and RAD-140. Though long-term research is still needed, so far, they have found the following side effects in different research settings:

MK-677 | Side Effects 

  • Induces water retention in research subjects
  • Elevates fasting blood glucose levels in research subjects
  • Increases appetite excessively in research subjects
  • Causes transient lethargy or fatigue in research subjects
  • May promote insulin resistance over time in research subjects
  • Triggers mild peripheral edema in research subjects
  • Alters lipid profile markers in research subjects

RAD-140 | Side Effects

  • Suppresses endogenous testosterone production in research subjects
  • Elevates liver enzyme levels in research subjects
  • May cause mood fluctuations in research subjects
  • Induces headaches or nausea in research subjects
  • Alters lipid profiles, including HDL reduction, in research subjects
  • Causes mild hair shedding in sensitive research subjects
  • Disrupts the hormonal balance post-cycle in research subjects

MK-677 vs RAD-140: Which Option is Best for Laboratory Research

The best option for laboratory research depends on the specific objective and goals. Researchers study MK-677 for its potential to stimulate growth hormone and IGF-1 levels. Moreover, they investigate MK-677 due to its anti-aging, bone density, and muscle preservation effects in research settings.

On the other hand, RAD-140 (Testolone) is a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM). It is primarily studied for its anabolic effects, with applications in muscle wasting, strength enhancement, and hormone replacement models. 

While MK-677 is favored for longevity and hormonal studies. RAD-140 is ideal for androgenic and muscle-related research.

Therefore, the best compound depends on whether the research is focused on hormonal/aging pathways (MK-677) or androgenic/anabolic performance (RAD-140).

Wrap Up:

MK-677 acts through the endocrine system, whereas RAD-140 functions through androgenic pathways. While many aspects of both compounds are the same, they are different from each other in terms of their working mechanism. 

Both MK-677 and RAD-140 enhance muscle growth, boost recovery, and improve bone density in different research studies. However, MK-677 is a growth hormone secretagogue that stimulates the ghrelin receptor to increase levels of growth hormone and IGF-1. 

In contrast, RAD-140 (Testolone) is a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM). It directly binds to androgen receptors in muscle and bone tissue to promote anabolic effects like increased strength, muscle mass, and fat loss. However, RAD-140 may suppress natural testosterone production.

FAQ

Which compound is better for fat loss, MK-677 or RAD 140, in research studies?

Researchers believe RAD 140 is generally more effective for fat loss due to its androgenic effects. Whereas, MK-677 primarily promotes muscle gain and recovery.

Can MK-677 increase appetite and cause water retention?

Yes, MK-677 often increases appetite and may cause mild water retention due to elevated growth hormone levels as observed in research settings. 

Are there any known drug interactions or contraindications of MK-677 and RAD-140?

Limited data exist, but combining RAD 140 with other androgenic compounds increases the risk of hormonal imbalance. 

Which one is used for anti-aging effects in research settings: RAD 140 or MK 677? 

In research settings, MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is the compound primarily studied for potential anti-aging effects. That is because it stimulates the secretion of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). In contrast, RAD-140 (Testolone) is mainly researched for its anabolic properties, particularly in muscle wasting and testosterone replacement models. 

Disclaimer:  Remember, MK-677 and RAD-140 are research compounds. These compounds are not intended for human use. Therefore, it is recommended to approach them carefully after consulting your health care specialist.

References

  1. Murphy, M. G., Plunkett, L. M., Gertz, B. J., He, W., Wittreich, J., Polvino, W. M., & Clemmons, D. R. (1998). MK-677, an orally active growth hormone secretagogue, reverses diet-induced catabolism. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, 83(2), 320–325. https://doi.org/10.1210/jcem.83.2.4551

  1. Murphy, M. G., Plunkett, L. M., Gertz, B. J., He, W., Wittreich, J., Polvino, W. M., & Clemmons, D. R. (1998). MK-677, an orally active growth hormone secretagogue, reverses diet-induced catabolism. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, 83(2), 320–325. https://doi.org/10.1210/jcem.83.2.4551
  1. Jayaraman, A., Christensen, A., Moser, V. A., Vest, R. S., Miller, C. P., Hattersley, G., & Pike, C. J. (2014). Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator RAD140 Is Neuroprotective in Cultured Neurons and Kainate-Lesioned Male Rats. Endocrinology, 155(4), 1398–1406. https://doi.org/10.1210/en.2013-1725
  1. ‌Miller, C. P., Shomali, M., Lyttle, C. R., O’Dea, L. St. L., Herendeen, H., Gallacher, K., Paquin, D., Compton, D. R., Sahoo, B., Kerrigan, S. A., Burge, M. S., Nickels, M., Green, J. L., Katzenellenbogen, J. 

A., Tchesnokov, A., & Hattersley, G. (2010). Design, Synthesis, and Preclinical Characterization of the Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator (SARM) RAD140. ACS Medicinal Chemistry Letters, 2(2), 124–129. https://doi.org/10.1021/ml1002508

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Team Purerawz provides simple and research-based information on SARMs, Peptides, Nootropics, Kratom and Stacks. Our writers and researchers make sure each article is clear, accurate, and easy to understand. We aim to help labs, students, and science enthusiasts find the right compounds for their research.

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