Synthetic peptide consisting of the first 24 amino acids of natural ACTH (corticotropin), which is the biologically active portion. Stimulates adrenal cortisol production — used diagnostically in the ACTH stimulation test to evaluate adrenal function.
At a glance
Class
Synthetic ACTH (Diagnostic Agent)
Storage
Refrigerate powder 2–8°C; reconstituted use within 12h at room temperature; unused portions can be frozen in aliquots
Dosing
Gold standard for diagnosing hypoadrenocorticism (Addison's) and monitoring tril
Frequency
Single diagnostic dose
Used for feline hyperadrenocorticism and hypoadrenocorticism diagnosis
Frequency
Single diagnostic dose
Safety
Pre-ACTH and post-ACTH cortisol levelsNormal post-ACTH cortisol: 6–17 mcg/dL (dogs)Addison's: both pre and post <2 mcg/dLCushing's on treatment: post-ACTH 1.5–5 mcg/dL (target)
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Cosyntropin?
Cosyntropin is a synthetic acth (diagnostic agent) used in pets. Synthetic peptide consisting of the first 24 amino acids of natural ACTH (corticotropin), which is the biologically active portion. Stimulates adrenal cortisol production — used diagnostically in the ACTH stimulation test to evaluate adrenal function.
›What is Cosyntropin used for in pets?
Cosyntropin is used in veterinary medicine for: Gold standard for diagnosing hypoadrenocorticism (Addison's) and monitoring tril; Used for feline hyperadrenocorticism and hypoadrenocorticism diagnosis.
›What is the Cosyntropin dose for dogs?
For dogs, Cosyntropin is typically dosed as follows — Gold standard for diagnosing hypoadrenocorticism (Addison's) and monitoring tril: undefined undefined IV/IM Single diagnostic dose. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Cosyntropin dose for cats?
For cats, Cosyntropin is typically dosed as follows — Used for feline hyperadrenocorticism and hypoadrenocorticism diagnosis: 5 mcg/kg IV/IM Single diagnostic dose. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Cosyntropin need a prescription?
Yes. Cosyntropin 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.
Find a vet near you →