Protocol Overview
Dosing Protocol
Standard
100 mcg 2x/day
12.5 mg at night
12-16 weeks
Advanced
25 mg at night
Alternating
25 mg (non-inj. days)
Key principle: CJC/Ipa should be taken fasted (AM + pre-bed). MK-677 at bedtime leverages the natural nocturnal GH surge. The "alternating" approach reduces insulin resistance risk by not stacking all three GH stimuli daily. Monitor glucose closely with the advanced protocol.
Expected Timeline
Side Effects & Monitoring
Common Side Effects
Increased appetite (MK-677 ghrelin activity)
Water retention / bloating (weeks 1-3)
Numbness/tingling in extremities
Vivid dreams / deeper sleep
Mild lethargy if glucose elevated
Critical Precautions
Monitor fasting glucose and HbA1c closely
MK-677 can reduce insulin sensitivity significantly
Contraindicated with diabetes or pre-diabetes
Avoid with active cancer (GH/IGF-1 proliferative)
Check thyroid function (GH can increase T4-to-T3 conversion)
Blood Work Recommendations
GH / IGF-1
IGF-1, IGFBP-3
Baseline, Week 6, Week 12
Metabolic
Fasting glucose, insulin, HbA1c, HOMA-IR
Baseline, Week 4, Week 8, Week 12
Thyroid
TSH, fT3, fT4
Baseline, Week 8
Liver/Kidney
CMP, ALT, AST
Baseline, Week 12
Body Composition
DEXA scan
Related Tools & Resources
Related Resources