AHK-Cu vs MK-677
Well Studied vs Well Studied
synergistic Mechanism-based · 47% AHK-Cu and MK-677 work through complementary pathways. Growth hormone signaling supports tissue repair processes. A well-established combination in recovery protocols.
Molecular Data
AHK-Cu MK-677
Weight 416.9 Da 624.77 Da
Half-life Not established ~24 hours
Chain 3 amino acids —
Type Copper tripeptide complex Non-peptide ghrelin receptor agonist
Key Benefits
AHK-Cu
01 Hair follicle elongation stimulation
02 Dermal papilla cell proliferation
03 VEGF upregulation for improved scalp circulation
04 TGF-β1 reduction (counters DHT effects)
05 Anti-apoptotic protection for follicles
06 Collagen synthesis support
07 Convenient topical application
08 Fibroblast activation for skin regeneration
MK-677
01 97% increase in 24-hour growth hormone secretion
02 40-72% elevation in IGF-1 levels
03 Enhanced sleep quality with improved REM patterns
04 Preferential lean tissue gains of 1.1-2.7kg over 8-12 months
05 15% basal metabolic rate increase within 2 weeks
06 Oral administration (no injections required)
Dosing Protocols
AHK-Cu
0.5-1% topical solution/serum / Once or twice daily application
Mesotherapy - Scalp (Practitioner) 0.1-0.5 mg per injection site Weekly sessions
Research Protocol 1-5 mg 2-3 times weekly
MK-677
Start 12.5mg daily, increase to 25mg based on tolerance / Once daily, preferably at bedtime on empty stomach
Side Effects
AHK-Cu
Generally well-tolerated with excellent safety profile in topical applications
Rare scalp irritation (patch test recommended)
Potential for mild redness on sensitive skin
MK-677
Appetite stimulation (>50% of users)
Water retention (30-40%)
Lethargy (20-30%)
Fasting glucose elevation (5-15mg/dL)
Note on testosterone suppression: at doses up to 20 mg daily, MK-677 is unlikely to cause significant testosterone suppression on its own. Above 20 mg daily, the likelihood of suppression and other side effects (insulin resistance, water retention, lethargy) increases. The case report documenting 85.7% testosterone suppression involved co-administration with LGD-4033, a SARM known to be profoundly suppressive, making the SARM the likely primary driver of that suppression.
Contraindications
Not for use on broken or infected skin
Avoid eye area - may cause irritation
Do not use if allergic to copper or peptides
Not recommended during acute skin infections
Heart disease or congestive heart failure
Diabetes or pre-diabetes
Active cancer
Severe cardiovascular disease
Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Research Evidence
AHK-Cu MK-677
Status Well Studied Well Studied
References 4 studies 7 studies
Latest March 2025 July 2024
FDA Approved No No
This comparison is for educational and research purposes only. Consult a healthcare professional before use.