Natural ACTH (39 amino acids) that stimulates adrenal cortex to produce cortisol, corticosterone, and aldosterone. Repository gel formulation provides sustained ACTH release. Used diagnostically (ACTH stimulation test) and therapeutically.
At a glance
Class
Adrenocorticotropic Hormone
Storage
Refrigerate 2–8°C; do not freeze
Dosing
ACTH gel largely replaced by cosyntropin for diagnostic testing (more standardiz
Frequency
Once (diagnostic); q24–48h (therapeutic)
Cosyntropin strongly preferred over ACTH gel for diagnostic testing in cats
Frequency
Once (diagnostic)
Safety
Pre and post cortisol levels (diagnostic)ElectrolytesBlood glucose
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Corticotropin (ACTH)?
Corticotropin (ACTH) is a adrenocorticotropic hormone used in pets. Natural ACTH (39 amino acids) that stimulates adrenal cortex to produce cortisol, corticosterone, and aldosterone. Repository gel formulation provides sustained ACTH release. Used diagnostically (ACTH stimulation test) and therapeutically.
›What is Corticotropin (ACTH) used for in pets?
Corticotropin (ACTH) is used in veterinary medicine for: ACTH gel largely replaced by cosyntropin for diagnostic testing (more standardiz; Cosyntropin strongly preferred over ACTH gel for diagnostic testing in cats.
›What is the Corticotropin (ACTH) dose for dogs?
For dogs, Corticotropin (ACTH) is typically dosed as follows — ACTH gel largely replaced by cosyntropin for diagnostic testing (more standardiz: undefined undefined IM Once (diagnostic); q24–48h (therapeutic). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Corticotropin (ACTH) dose for cats?
For cats, Corticotropin (ACTH) is typically dosed as follows — Cosyntropin strongly preferred over ACTH gel for diagnostic testing in cats: 2.2 IU/kg IM Once (diagnostic). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Corticotropin (ACTH) need a prescription?
Yes. Corticotropin (ACTH) is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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