Information about Corticotropin

Generic Name : Corticotropin
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Corticotropin are provided here.

Pronunciation : core-tih-koe-TROE-pin

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Corticotropin, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.

You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.

ICD Code : Y57.6 Therapeutic Classification : Diagnostic Agents

Trade Names/Brand Names of Corticotropin

India :

Acton Prolongatum

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International :

HP Acthar

Why is Corticotropin Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is used mainly to diagnose problems with adrenocortical function. It may be used to treat certain conditions caused by allergies, breathing, blood, or endocrine problems; arthritis; skin or eye problems; bowel inflammation; multiple sclerosis; or certain cancers instead or corticosteroids, but corticosteroids are usually preferred since they are less expensive and easy to use.

When should Corticotropin not be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients allergic to the drug, those with severe infections such as systemic fungal infections and herpes simplex of the eyes, heart failure, high blood pressure, recent surgery and peptic ulcer.

What is the dosage of Corticotropin?

The usual dose is 40 to 80 units given intramuscularly or subcutaneously every 24 – 72 hours. In the treatment of Acute Exacerbations of Multiple Sclerosis is 80 – 120 units for 2 – 3 weeks may be administered. For the purpose of diagnosis, a dose of up to 80 units may be administered.

How should Corticotropin be taken?

It comes as a solution for injection, administered by the doctor or hospital staff.

What are the warnings and precautions for Corticotropin?

•Long-term use of this medication may cause eye problems, such as cataracts, glaucoma, and optic nerve damage. Do not use it for longer than prescribed.

The drug should not be stopped suddenly but should be tapered gradually.

It may affect blood sugar, monitor blood sugar regularly.

It may lower your body's ability to fight infection or illnesses, especially if you use it for an extended period of time.

Caution should be exercised in children, pregnant women.

What are the side effects of Corticotropin?

Fluid and Electrolyte Disturbances- Sodium retention, fluid retention, potassium loss, calcium loss.
Musculoskeletal- Muscle weakness, loss of muscle mass, pathologic fracture of long bones.
Gastrointestinal- Inflammation of pancreas, ulcer in esophagus, abdominal distention, peptic ulcer.
Skin- Impaired wound healing, lesions, increased sweating, pigmentation, thin, fragile skin, facial redness, acne.
Heart- High blood pressure, heart failure, inflammation of blood vessels.
Central Nervous System- Convulsions, vertigo, headache; increased intracranial pressure with papilledema (optic disc swelling).
Eye and ENT- Glare and decreased visual acuity especially during bright sunlight, increased eye pressure, glaucoma with possible eye nerve damage; protruding eyeball.
Metabolic and Hormonal- Negative nitrogen balance, increase in blood sugar, menstrual irregularities, suppression of growth, Cushingoid state.
Miscellaneous- Abscess, prolonged use of ACTH may result in antibodies to it and resulting loss of stimulatory effect, thinning of skin.