Human Growth Hormone (HGH) vs MK-677 (Ibutamoren) vs Tesamorelin
A three-way comparison to help you find the right peptide for your research goals.
Human Growth Hormone (HGH)
Human Growth Hormone (somatropin) is a 191-amino acid protein identical to naturally produced GH. FDA-approved for growth hormone deficiency, Turner syndrome, and other conditions. Widely used off-label for anti-aging and performance.
Full details →MK-677 (Ibutamoren)
MK-677, also known as Ibutamoren, is an orally active growth hormone secretagogue. Unlike peptides, it can be taken orally and has a long half-life, providing 24-hour GH elevation.
Full details →Tesamorelin
Tesamorelin is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). It is FDA-approved under the brand name Egrifta for reducing excess abdominal fat in HIV-infected patients with lipodystrophy.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Human Growth Hormone (HGH) | MK-677 (Ibutamoren) | Tesamorelin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Binds to GH receptors throughout the body, stimulating IGF-1 production in the liver. Promotes protein synthesis, fat metabolism, and cellular regeneration across multiple tissues. | Acts as a potent, selective agonist of the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a). Increases GH and IGF-1 levels without affecting cortisol. Mimics ghrelin's GH-releasing effects. | Stimulates the pituitary gland to produce and release growth hormone by binding to GHRH receptors. Increases IGF-1 levels which promotes lipolysis and reduces visceral adipose tissue. |
| Typical Dosage | Medical: 0.1-0.3mg/kg/week divided into daily doses. Anti-aging: 1-2 IU daily. Performance: 2-6 IU daily, sometimes higher. | Typical dosing: 10-25mg taken orally once daily. Often taken at night due to sleep benefits and appetite increase. | FDA-approved dose: 2mg administered subcutaneously once daily. Research protocols may use various dosing schedules. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection, preferably at night to mimic natural pulsatile release. Rotate injection sites. Store refrigerated. | Oral administration (capsule or liquid). Can be taken with or without food. Long half-life allows once-daily dosing. | Subcutaneous injection into the abdomen. Rotate injection sites. Best administered at the same time daily, preferably in the evening. |
| Side Effects | Joint pain, water retention, carpal tunnel syndrome, potential insulin resistance, and acromegaly features with long-term high doses. | Increased appetite and water retention are most common. May cause lethargy, vivid dreams, and mild numbness. Can affect blood glucose and insulin sensitivity. | Common side effects include injection site reactions (erythema, pruritus), joint pain, peripheral edema, and muscle pain. May cause elevated blood glucose. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
Human Growth Hormone (HGH), MK-677 (Ibutamoren), Tesamorelin are all commonly used for:
Key Differences
Unique to Human Growth Hormone (HGH):
Unique to MK-677 (Ibutamoren):
Detailed Analysis
Commonalities
Both Human Growth Hormone (HGH) and MK-677 (Ibutamoren) are commonly used for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss, Recovery & Healing, Sleep Quality.
Which Should You Choose?
Human Growth Hormone (HGH) has stronger evidence for Fat Loss, Recovery & Healing. MK-677 (Ibutamoren) has stronger evidence for Sleep Quality.
Commonalities
Both Human Growth Hormone (HGH) and Tesamorelin are commonly used for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss.
Which Should You Choose?
Human Growth Hormone (HGH) has stronger evidence for Muscle Growth.
Commonalities
Both MK-677 (Ibutamoren) and Tesamorelin are commonly used for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss.
Which Should You Choose?
MK-677 (Ibutamoren) has stronger evidence for Muscle Growth. Tesamorelin has stronger evidence for Fat Loss.