Ibutamoren is a synthetic nonpeptide compound, referred to as a ghrelin mimetic, that activates L-type calcium channels, which leads to intracellular calcium increases and activation of protein kinase C (an enzyme that controls the function of various proteins). Ibutamoren interacts with growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) and stimulates the release of growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). This can increase hunger and also reduce nitrogen wasting during energy restriction. Nitrogen wasting occurs when proteins (e.g., in muscles) are broken down into amino acids for energy and then removed from the body usually via urine.[1] Reduced nitrogen wasting is thought to be how ibutamoren increases fat-free mass.
How does ibutamoren work?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Ibutamoren is a synthetic compound that mimics ghrelin; it activates calcium channels and stimulates the release of growth hormone and IGF-1, which can increase hunger and reduce nitrogen wasting. This reduction in nitrogen wasting is believed to contribute to an increase in fat-free mass.