Growth hormone secretagogue helps seniors to gain muscle mass

Professor Michael Thorner and colleagues at the University of Virginia conducted a study of 65 healthy seniors aged between 60 and 81. Participants were randomly assigned to treatment with 25mg/day of the oral ghrelin mimetic MK-677 or a placebo for 12-months.

Results showed that treatment with MK-677 significantly increased growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-1) levels to those seen in healthy young adults without any serious adverse effects. Furthermore, participants receiving MK-677 gained muscle mass (1.1 kg), whilst muscle mass decreased (by 0.5 kg) in those given the placebo.

“Our study opens the door to the possibility of developing treatments that avert the frailty of aging,” said Professor Thorner in a news release issued by the University of Virginia. “The search for anti-frailty medications has become increasingly important because the average American is expected to live into his or her 80s, and most seniors want to stay strong enough to remain independent as they age.”

The researchers concluded: “Over 12 months, the ghrelin mimetic MK-677 enhanced pulsatile growth hormone secretion, significantly increased fat-free mass, and was generally well tolerated. Long-term functional and, ultimately, pharmacoeconomic, studies in elderly persons are indicated.”

Nass R, Pezzoli SS, Oliveri MC, Patrie JT, Harrell FE, Clasey JL, Heymsfield SB, Bach MA, Vance ML, Thorner MO. Effects of an Oral Ghrelin Mimetic on Body Composition and Clinical Outcomes in Healthy Older Adults. Ann Intern Med. 2008;149:601-611.

News release: Study Investigates Anti-Frailty Pill for Seniors. University of Virginia Health System. November 4th 2008.