Last reviewed · How we verify
COSYNTROPIN
Cosyntropin is a synthetic ACTH analog used as a diagnostic agent to screen for adrenocortical insufficiency. It stimulates the adrenal cortex to assess cortisol response, aiding in the diagnosis of primary or secondary adrenal insufficiency. Approved by the FDA, Cosyntropin is a rapid and reliable tool for endocrinologists and clinicians. Its key advantage is the ability to perform a 30-minute test with minimal patient discomfort. While not a therapeutic agent, it plays a crucial role in diagnosing adrenal disorders, which can significantly impact patient management and outcomes.
At a glance
| Generic name | COSYNTROPIN |
|---|---|
| Also known as | tetracosactide |
| Drug class | Adrenocorticotropic Hormone [EPC] |
| Target | MC2 receptor |
| Modality | Recombinant protein |
| Therapeutic area | Metabolic |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
| First approval | 1970 |
Approved indications
- Screening for adrenocortical insufficiency — diagnostic
Pipeline indications
- Post-dural puncture headache — Phase 2
- Adrenal suppression — Phase 2
- Infantile spasms — Phase 3
Common side effects
- Hypersensitivity reaction
- Bradycardia
- Tachycardia
- Hypertension
- Peripheral edema
- Rash
Drug interactions
- Diuretics
Key clinical trials
- Updated Diagnostic Cortisol Values for Adrenal Insufficiency (NA)
- Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Imaging of Cholesterol Trafficking: Clinical Evaluation of [18F]FNP-59 in Normal Human Subjects (Groups 2, 3 & 4) (EARLY_PHASE1)
- Stress and the Nervous System (NA)
- Hormonal Mechanisms of Sleep Restriction - Axis Study in Older Men and Postmenopausal Women (EARLY_PHASE1)
- Hormonal Mechanisms of Sleep Restriction - Axis Study (PHASE1)
- Evaluation of the Effectiveness and Tolerance of Tetracosactide Synacthen® in the Treatment of Post Dural Puncture Headaches (ESYBRECHE) (PHASE2)
- Subclinical Primary Aldosteronism in Diabetes At-Risk for Kidney Disease (EARLY_PHASE1)
- Defining the Mechanisms Underlying Adrenal Insufficiency in Cirrhosis
Patents
| Patent | Expiry | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Data not available |
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| FDA label | Mechanism, indications, dosing, boxed warnings, drug interactions |
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
| FDA Orange Book | Patents + exclusivity |
Competitive intelligence
For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:
- COSYNTROPIN CI brief — competitive landscape report
- COSYNTROPIN updates RSS · CI watch RSS