Tricosactide

Detailed article on Tricosactide for medical students

Tricosactide, also known as tetracosactide or ACTH(1-24), is a synthetic polypeptide that mimics the action of the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). It is primarily used in the diagnostic assessment of adrenal gland function and in the treatment of certain medical conditions such as multiple sclerosis and infantile spasms.

Pharmacology

Tricosactide is a synthetic analogue of the naturally occurring ACTH, which is a peptide hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland. It consists of the first 24 amino acids of the full-length ACTH molecule, which are sufficient to retain the biological activity of the hormone.

Mechanism of Action

Tricosactide stimulates the adrenal cortex to secrete glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, and androgens. It binds to the melanocortin receptor 2 (MC2R) on the surface of adrenal cortical cells, leading to increased production of cyclic AMP (cAMP) and subsequent activation of steroidogenesis.

Pharmacokinetics

Tricosactide is administered via intramuscular or subcutaneous injection. It has a rapid onset of action, with effects typically observed within 30 minutes. The half-life of tricosactide is approximately 15 minutes, and it is metabolized by the liver and excreted by the kidneys.

Clinical Uses

Diagnostic Use

Tricosactide is used in the ACTH stimulation test to assess adrenal gland function. This test helps diagnose conditions such as Addison's disease and adrenal insufficiency.

Therapeutic Use

Tricosactide is used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis and infantile spasms. It is also used in certain cases of congenital adrenal hyperplasia and other conditions where stimulation of adrenal steroid production is desired.

Side Effects

Common side effects of tricosactide include:

• Local reactions at the injection site
• Flushing
• Hypertension
• Hyperglycemia

Serious side effects may include:

• Allergic reactions
• Cushing's syndrome with prolonged use

Contraindications

Tricosactide is contraindicated in patients with:

• Hypersensitivity to ACTH or its analogues
• Peptic ulcer disease
• Severe hypertension
• Systemic fungal infections

Also see

• Adrenocorticotropic hormone
• Adrenal gland
• Steroidogenesis
• Multiple sclerosis
• Infantile spasms

External links

• DrugBank: Tricosactide
• PubMed: Tricosactide