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Hormones & reproductionACTH(1-24) analog

Cosyntropin

Also known as: Cortrosyn, Tetracosactide, ACTH(1–24)

By the Peptide Dossier Editorial TeamUpdated How we source

Cosyntropin is synthetic ACTH (1–24) used for an adrenal stimulation test. Its value is the measured cortisol response, not ongoing hormone treatment.

Quick Facts

Class:ACTH (1-24) analog
US product context:FDA-approved diagnostic agent for adrenocortical insufficiency.
Evidence context:Established diagnostic cortisol-stimulation use; low/standard protocol performance depends on the cause being assessed.

Diagnostic peptide identity

Cosyntropin, also called tetracosactide and marketed as Cortrosyn, reproduces the first 24amino acids of ACTH. That fragment retains the adrenal-stimulating activity of the full hormone in a standardized synthetic diagnostic product. It has longstanding FDA approval.

Cortisol response and protocol evidence

Melanocortin-2 receptor activation on the adrenal cortex stimulates cortisol release. A baseline cortisol sample is followed by a single IV or IM dose and repeat measurement at the protocol’s interval. A clear rise supports normal adrenal responsiveness; a blunted response suggests insufficiency.

A meta-analysis comparing low and standard dose protocols found greater sensitivity of the low-dose approach for chronic insufficiency caused by pituitary/hypothalamic disease. Test interpretation helps distinguish primary adrenal failure from other low-cortisol causes and depends on the controlled protocol.

Sources: [1]

Approved application

Cortrosyn is FDA-approved as a diagnostic screen for adrenocortical insufficiency. Clinicians administer a single test exposure with before/after cortisol measurements. It is not prescribed as continuing treatment to replace deficient hormones.

Sources: [2]

Adverse effects

Reported effects include bradycardia or tachycardia, hypertension, swelling of hands/feet andrash. Allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, are an important potential risk.

References and further reading

This reference draws on Superpower’s Peptide Library and the research linked below. Peptide Dossier’s editorial team adapted and integrated the material on .

  1. 10.1210/jc.2008-0710Cortisol response and protocol evidenceCited in: Cortisol response and protocol evidence
  2. accessdata.fda.govApproved applicationCited in: Approved application

Frequently Asked Questions About Cosyntropin

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Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice. The information presented is based on published research and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any peptide protocol. Some peptides discussed may not be approved for human use by the FDA or equivalent regulatory bodies.