ADRENOCORTICOTROPIC hormone (ACTH / adrenocorticotropin / corticotropin)

Question 1

ACTH → drug name:

Answer 1

cosyntropin

Question 2

mechanism of action:

Answer 2

1. bind to receptors on surface of adrenal cortex

2. stimulate the rate-limiting step in the adrenocorticosteroid synthetic pathway (cholesterol to pregnenolone)

Question 3

indications:

Answer 3

1. diagnostic tool for differentiating between primary adrenal insufficiency (Addison) & secondary insufficiency
   (inadequate ACTH by pituitary)
2. infantile spasm (West syndrome)

Question 4

side effects:

Answer 4

SHORT-term use → well tolerated

LONG-term use:

1. hypertension
2. peripheral edema
3. hypokalemia
4. emotional disturbances
5. increased risk of infections