cosyntropin

A synthetically-derived subunit of the endogenous peptide pituitary hormone adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). Consisting of the first 24 amino acids from the amino terminal of ACTH, Cortrosyn is usually prepared for injection and intended for diagnostic and not therapeutic use. Similar to endogenous ACTH, this agent stimulates the adrenal secretion of specific adrenal steroids that can be measured in the plasma.