ACTH (1-24)
Pituitary Hormone FragmentAlso known as: Cosyntropin · Synacthen · Tetracosactide
The synthetic N-terminal 24-amino-acid fragment of ACTH, retaining full adrenocortical stimulating activity. FDA approved for the Synacthen (cortisol stimulation) diagnostic test.
Typical Dose
250 mcg IV or IM (standard Synacthen test); 1 mcg (low-dose test)
Route
Intravenous or intramuscular
Cycle
Single dose diagnostic
Half-life
~15 minutes
Storage
2–8°C.
Overview
ACTH(1-24), also known as cosyntropin or tetracosactide, is a synthetic peptide comprising the first 24 amino acids of adrenocorticotropic hormone. It retains the full biological activity of native ACTH(1-39) for adrenal cortisol stimulation while being easier to manufacture & having reduced immunogenicity. The Synacthen test (250 mcg IV) is the standard diagnostic for adrenal insufficiency.
Quick Start Guide
Clinical diagnostic use. 250 mcg IV or IM. Cortisol measured at 0, 30, & 60 min.
Research Indications
Adrenal insufficiency diagnosis
Most EffectiveStandard diagnostic: cortisol peak >18–20 mcg/dL at 30–60 min rules out primary adrenal insufficiency.
Inflammatory conditions (depot, Europe)
EffectiveSynacthen Depot (long-acting) used in some countries for multiple sclerosis relapses, nephrotic syndrome.
Side Effects & Safety
Common
- Flushing
- Rash at injection site
Uncommon
- Anaphylaxis (rare)
When to Stop
- Known hypersensitivity to cosyntropin
How to Reconstitute
Commercial product for diagnostic use.
Dosing math: Clinical use only.
Quality Indicators
Good — use as normal
- Per manufacturer
Discard immediately
- Per manufacturer
Community Insights
Self-reported. Reflects user experience, not clinical outcomes.
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Information on this page applies to pharmaceutical-grade peptides. Purity & identity of research-grade products vary. Certipep provides independent ESI-TOF-MS & HPLC analysis with a signed analytical report.
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