tetracosactide hexacetaat

Tetracosactide hexacetaat is a synthetic polypeptide that corresponds to the first 24 amino acids of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), also known as ACTH (1–24). It is formulated as the hexaacetate salt for improved stability and pharmacokinetics. Tetracosactide stimulates the adrenal cortex by acting as an agonist at melanocortin receptors, primarily MC2R, leading to increased production and release of corticosteroids such as cortisol. Its main clinical use is in diagnostic testing for adrenal insufficiency (e.g., Short Synacthen Test) and, in some regions, short-term therapy for conditions where glucocorticoids are indicated but not tolerated or effective—such as Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, certain skin diseases responsive to corticosteroids, multiple sclerosis exacerbations, and adjunctive therapy in oncology to improve chemotherapy tolerability[2][5][6][8][9][10]. The drug is administered via intramuscular or intravenous injection.

Brand names

SynacthenCosyntropin

Other names

tetracosactrinACTH (1–24)tetracosactide acetate