Cosyntropin (Cortrosyn)
Overview
A synthetic peptide consisting of the first 24 amino acids of the 39-amino acid adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). Cosyntropin retains full biological activity of native ACTH for stimulating adrenal cortisol production and is used as a diagnostic agent in the ACTH stimulation test to evaluate adrenal gland function.
Mechanism of Action
It binds to the MC2R receptor on adrenocortical cells, activating steroidogenesis.
Research Summary & Key Findings
FDA-approved as a diagnostic agent for adrenal insufficiency. The standard-dose (250 mcg) and low-dose (1 mcg) ACTH stimulation tests are cornerstones of adrenal function assessment. A cortisol response below 18-20 mcg/dL at 30-60 minutes post-injection indicates adrenal insufficiency. Widely used in endocrinology with an excellent safety profile.
Clinical Status
Cosyntropin (Cortrosyn) has received FDA approval and is available for clinical use under appropriate medical supervision. Consult a qualified healthcare provider for prescribing information.
Administration Routes
References
Primary literature
- PubMed — "Cosyntropin"
Peer-reviewed literature indexed by the National Library of Medicine.
- ClinicalTrials.gov — "Cosyntropin"
Registered interventional and observational studies, including status and phase.
- PubChem — "Cosyntropin"
Chemical structure, molecular properties, and bioactivity data.
Study-level citations for this compound are being verified against the primary sources before publication. The database queries above return the current indexed literature in the meantime.
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