← Compound Library

ACTH (1-39)

Pituitary Hormone

Also known as: Corticotropin · ACTH · HP Acthar Gel

The full native 39-amino-acid adrenocorticotropic hormone from the anterior pituitary. Drives cortisol synthesis in the adrenal cortex. Available clinically as HP Acthar Gel for inflammatory & neurological conditions.

Typical Dose

40–80 units (2.4–4.8 mg) 1–2x daily (Acthar Gel); highly indication-dependent

Route

Subcutaneous or intramuscular

Cycle

Indication-dependent

Half-life

~15–20 minutes (IV); extended release from gel depot

Storage

2–8°C.

ⓘ

Insights on this page are consolidated from peer-reviewed literature and aggregated research data. They do not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before use.

Overview

ACTH(1-39) is the full native 39-amino-acid pituitary hormone responsible for stimulating the adrenal cortex to produce cortisol. Clinically, it has been largely replaced by ACTH(1-24) (cosyntropin) for diagnostic purposes. HP Acthar Gel (porcine ACTH) is approved for infantile spasms, multiple sclerosis relapses, nephrotic syndrome, & several other conditions, where its mechanism may extend beyond simple cortisol stimulation to direct melanocortin receptor effects.

Research Indications

Infantile spasms

Most Effective

FDA approved (HP Acthar Gel). First-line therapy for West syndrome.

Multiple sclerosis relapses

Effective

FDA approved for treatment of acute MS exacerbations.

Side Effects & Safety

Common

  • Hyperglycemia
  • Hypertension
  • Fluid retention
  • Immunosuppression

Uncommon

  • Cushing's syndrome (long-term)
  • Adrenal suppression on discontinuation

When to Stop

  • Active infection
  • Signs of allergic reaction
  • Adrenal crisis risk on abrupt discontinuation

How to Reconstitute

1

HP Acthar Gel comes ready to use. No reconstitution required.

Dosing math: Clinical product only.

Quality Indicators

Good — use as normal

  • Per manufacturer

Discard immediately

  • Per manufacturer

Community Insights

Self-reported. Reflects user experience, not clinical outcomes.

Verify what you have

Information on this page applies to pharmaceutical-grade peptides. Purity & identity of research-grade products vary. Certipep provides independent ESI-QTOF-MS & HPLC analysis with a signed analytical report.

Submit a sample