There have been a few negative studies with ibutamoren. For example, there was interest in using ibutamoren for Alzheimer’s disease, because its ability to increase levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) may theoretically reduce brain amyloidosis and slow down disease progression. However, a large randomized controlled trial in people with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease found that taking 25 mg of ibutamoren daily for 12 months is no different than a placebo for slowing down cognitive or physical decline.[1] Additionally, there is interest in the use of ibutamoren for hypogonadism; however, ibutamoren has not been shown to increase testosterone levels.[2] Ibutamoren has also not been shown to improve bone mineral density even though it seemed to activate biomarkers signaling bone resorption (breaking down).[3]
What has ibutamoren been studied for but shown no benefit?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Ibutamoren has been studied for its potential benefits in Alzheimer's disease, hypogonadism, and bone mineral density, but it has shown no significant effects in these areas because it did not slow cognitive decline, increase testosterone levels, or improve bone mineral density compared to placebo.