Dosing & Uses
Dosage Forms & Strengths
injectable solution
- 80 units/mL
Verification of Adrenal Responsiveness
40-80 unit IM/SC q24-72hr
Acute Exacerbations of Multiple Sclerosis
80-120 unit IM qDay for 2-3 weeks may be administered
Nephrotic Syndrome
Induces diuresis or a remission of proteinuria in the nephrotic syndrome without uremia of the idiopathic type or that due to lupus erythematosus
40-80 units IM/SC q1-3days
Other Indications & Uses
Diagnostic: Testing of adrenal cortex function
Therapeutic: As corticosteroids
Edematous State: Indicated to induce diuresis or remission of proteinuria in nephrotic syndrome without uremia of the idiopathic type or that due to lupus erythematosus
Rheumatic Disorders: As adjunctive therapy for short-term administration (to tide the patient over an acute episode or exacerbation) in: psoriatic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, including juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (selected cases may require low-dose maintenance therapy), ankylosing spondylitis
Collagen Diseases: During an exacerbation or as maintenance therapy in selected cases of: systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic dermatomyositis (polymyositis)
Dermatologic Diseases: Severe erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Allergic States: Serum sickness
Ophthalmic Diseases: Severe acute and chronic allergic and inflammatory processes involving the eye and its adnexa such as: keratitis, iritis, iridocyclitis, diffuse posterior uveitis and choroiditis; optic neuritis; chorioretinitis; anterior segment inflammation
Respiratory Diseases: Symptomatic sarcoidosis
Infantile spasms (West syndrome): Indicated as monotherapy for the treatment of infantile spasms in infants and children <2 years
Dosage Forms & Strengths
injectable solution
- 80 unit/mL
Anti-Inflammatory/Immunosuppressant
0.8 unit/kg/day IM or 25 units/m²/day divided q12-24hr
Infantile Spasms (West Syndrome)
<2 years: 75 units/m² IM BID x2 weeks, THEN gradually taper over 2 weeks
Tapering schedule
- 30 units/m² IM qAM for 3 days, THEN
- 15 units/m² IM qAM for3 days, THEN
- 10 units/m² IM qAM for 3 days, THEN
- 10 units/m² every other morning for 6 days
Nephrotic Syndrome
Induces diuresis or a remission of proteinuria in the nephrotic syndrome without uremia of the idiopathic type or that due to lupus erythematosus
<2 years: Safety and efficacy not established
≥2 years: 40-80 units IM/SC q1-3days
Interactions
Interaction Checker
No Results
Contraindicated
Serious - Use Alternative
Significant - Monitor Closely
Minor
Contraindicated (0)
Serious - Use Alternative (12)
- amphotericin B deoxycholate
amphotericin B deoxycholate, corticotropin. Mechanism: unspecified interaction mechanism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Potential for hypokalemia.
- axicabtagene ciloleucel
corticotropin, axicabtagene ciloleucel. Either increases effects of the other by immunosuppressive effects; risk of infection. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Consider the use of prophylactic corticosteroid in patients after weighing the potential benefits and risks. Corticosteroids may, however, be required for treatment of cytokine release syndrome or neurologic toxicity.
- brexucabtagene autoleucel
corticotropin, brexucabtagene autoleucel. Either increases effects of the other by immunosuppressive effects; risk of infection. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Avoid prophylactic use of systemic corticosteroids as premedication before CAR-T cell therapy. Corticosteroids may, however, be required for treatment of cytokine release syndrome or neurologic toxicity.
- ciltacabtagene autoleucel
corticotropin, ciltacabtagene autoleucel. Either increases effects of the other by immunosuppressive effects; risk of infection. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Avoid prophylactic use of systemic corticosteroids as premedication before CAR-T cell therapy. Corticosteroids may, however, be required for treatment of cytokine release syndrome or neurologic toxicity.
- idecabtagene vicleucel
corticotropin, idecabtagene vicleucel. Either increases effects of the other by immunosuppressive effects; risk of infection. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Avoid prophylactic use of systemic corticosteroids as premedication before CAR-T cell therapy. Corticosteroids may, however, be required for treatment of cytokine release syndrome or neurologic toxicity.
- influenza virus vaccine quadrivalent, adjuvanted
corticotropin decreases effects of influenza virus vaccine quadrivalent, adjuvanted by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Immunosuppressive drugs may reduce the immune response to influenza vaccine.
- influenza virus vaccine trivalent, adjuvanted
corticotropin decreases effects of influenza virus vaccine trivalent, adjuvanted by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Immunosuppressive drugs may reduce the immune response to influenza vaccine.
- lisocabtagene maraleucel
corticotropin, lisocabtagene maraleucel. Either increases effects of the other by immunosuppressive effects; risk of infection. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Avoid prophylactic use of systemic corticosteroids as premedication before CAR-T cell therapy. Corticosteroids may, however, be required for treatment of cytokine release syndrome or neurologic toxicity.
- macimorelin
corticotropin, macimorelin. unspecified interaction mechanism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Drugs that directly affect the pituitary secretion of growth hormone (GH) may impact the accuracy of the macimorelin diagnostic test. Allow sufficient washout time of drugs affecting GH release before administering macimorelin. .
- testosterone intranasal
testosterone intranasal, corticotropin. Either increases effects of the other by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Coadministration increases risk for edema, particularly in patients with cardiac, renal, or hepatic disease.
- tisagenlecleucel
corticotropin, tisagenlecleucel. Either increases effects of the other by immunosuppressive effects; risk of infection. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Avoid prophylactic use of systemic corticosteroids as premedication before CAR-T cell therapy. Corticosteroids may, however, be required for treatment of cytokine release syndrome or neurologic toxicity.
- tofacitinib
corticotropin, tofacitinib. Either increases toxicity of the other by immunosuppressive effects; risk of infection. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
Monitor Closely (39)
- atracurium
atracurium, corticotropin. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Coadministration of corticosteroids and neuromuscular blockers may increase risk of developing acute myopathy.
- cholera vaccine
corticotropin decreases effects of cholera vaccine by immunosuppressive effects; risk of infection. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Immunosuppressive therapies, including irradiation, antimetabolites, alkylating agents, cytotoxic drugs and corticosteroids (used in greater than physiologic doses), may reduce the immune response to cholera vaccine.
- ciprofloxacin
corticotropin and ciprofloxacin both increase Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of quinolone antibiotics and corticosteroids may increase risk of tendon rupture.
- cisatracurium
cisatracurium, corticotropin. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Coadministration of corticosteroids and neuromuscular blockers may increase risk of developing acute myopathy.
- cyclosporine
corticotropin, cyclosporine. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Corticosteroids may increase or decrease cyclosporine concentrations. Also, cyclosporine may increase the plasma concentrations of the corticosteroids. Monitor for changes in cyclosporine concentrations and for toxicities of corticosteroids and/or cyclosporine.
- dengue vaccine
corticotropin decreases effects of dengue vaccine by immunosuppressive effects; risk of infection. Use Caution/Monitor. Immunosuppressive therapies (eg, irradiation, antimetabolites, alkylating agents, cytotoxic drugs, corticosteroids [greater than physiologic doses]) may reduce immune response to dengue vaccine.
- gemifloxacin
corticotropin and gemifloxacin both increase Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of quinolone antibiotics and corticosteroids may increase risk of tendon rupture.
- hyaluronidase
corticotropin decreases effects of hyaluronidase by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Corticotropin (ACTH), when given in large systemic doses, may render tissues partially resistant to the action of hyaluronidase. Patients may require larger amounts of hyaluronidase for equivalent dispersing effect. .
- hydrochlorothiazide
corticotropin increases toxicity of hydrochlorothiazide by increasing renal clearance. Use Caution/Monitor. May enhance hypokalemic effect of thiazide diuretics.
- influenza A (H5N1) vaccine
corticotropin decreases effects of influenza A (H5N1) vaccine by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Corticosteroids used in greater than physiologic doses may reduce immune response to H5N1 vaccine.
- influenza virus vaccine (H5N1), adjuvanted
corticotropin decreases effects of influenza virus vaccine (H5N1), adjuvanted by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Corticosteroids used in greater than physiologic doses may reduce immune response to H5N1 vaccine.
- insulin degludec
corticotropin decreases effects of insulin degludec by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Endogneous cortisol is a regulatory hormone that increases blood glucose levels; exogenous systemic corticosteroids have been associated with hyperglycemia and may cause diabetes with chronic, high dose use; dose of antidiabetic agents may need adjustment and increased frequency of glucose monitoring may be required.
- insulin degludec/insulin aspart
corticotropin decreases effects of insulin degludec/insulin aspart by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Endogneous cortisol is a regulatory hormone that increases blood glucose levels; exogenous systemic corticosteroids have been associated with hyperglycemia and may cause diabetes with chronic, high dose use; dose of antidiabetic agents may need adjustment and increased frequency of glucose monitoring may be required.
- insulin inhaled
corticotropin decreases effects of insulin inhaled by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Endogneous cortisol is a regulatory hormone that increases blood glucose levels; exogenous systemic corticosteroids have been associated with hyperglycemia and may cause diabetes with chronic, high dose use; dose of antidiabetic agents may need adjustment and increased frequency of glucose monitoring may be required.
- isavuconazonium sulfate
corticotropin and isavuconazonium sulfate both decrease immunosuppressive effects; risk of infection. Use Caution/Monitor.
- levofloxacin
corticotropin and levofloxacin both increase Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of quinolone antibiotics and corticosteroids may increase risk of tendon rupture.
- lonapegsomatropin
lonapegsomatropin decreases effects of corticotropin by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Growth hormone (GH) inhibits microsomal enzyme 11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1, which converts cortisone to its active metabolite, cortisol. Patients with untreated GH deficiency may have increases in serum cortisol, and initiation of lonapegsomatropin may result decreased serum cortisol. Patients with hypoadrenalism treated with glucocorticoids may require an increase glucocorticoid stress or maintenance doses following lonapegsomatropin initiation.
corticotropin decreases effects of lonapegsomatropin by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Glucocorticoid therapy and supraphysiologic glucocorticoid treatment may attenuate the growth promoting effects of lonapegsomatropin in children. Carefully adjust glucocorticoid replacement dosing in children receiving glucocorticoid treatments to avoid both hypoadrenalism and an inhibitory effect on growth.
corticotropin decreases effects of lonapegsomatropin by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Supraphysiologic glucocorticoid treatment may attenuate growth-promoting effects of growth hormone (GH). Microsomal enzyme 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11-beta-HSD-1) is required for conversion of cortisone to its active metabolite, cortisol, in hepatic and adipose tissue. GH inhibits 11-beta-HSD-1. Consequently, individuals with untreated GH deficiency have relative increases in 11-beta-HSD-1 and serum cortisol. Initiation of GH analogs may result in inhibition of 11-beta-HSD-1 and reduced serum cortisol concentrations. - mechlorethamine
mechlorethamine, corticotropin. immunosuppressive effects; risk of infection. Use Caution/Monitor. Caution should be taken in patients on concomitant immunosuppressants or with impaired immune systems because of increased risk for serious infections.
- metformin
corticotropin decreases effects of metformin by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- moxifloxacin
corticotropin and moxifloxacin both increase Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of quinolone antibiotics and corticosteroids may increase risk of tendon rupture.
- ocrelizumab
corticotropin and ocrelizumab both increase immunosuppressive effects; risk of infection. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of ocrelizumab with high doses of corticosteroids is expected to increase the risk of immunosuppression.
- ofatumumab SC
ofatumumab SC, corticotropin. Either increases effects of the other by immunosuppressive effects; risk of infection. Use Caution/Monitor. Consider the risk of additive immune system effects when coadministering immunosuppressive therapies with coadministration. When switching from therapies with immune effects, take into account the duration and mechanism of action of these therapies when initiating ofatumumab SC.
- ofloxacin
corticotropin and ofloxacin both increase Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of quinolone antibiotics and corticosteroids may increase risk of tendon rupture.
- olodaterol inhaled
corticotropin and olodaterol inhaled both decrease serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- ozanimod
ozanimod, corticotropin. Either increases effects of the other by immunosuppressive effects; risk of infection. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration with immunosuppressive therapies may increase the risk of additive immune effects during therapy and in the weeks following administration. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, consider the half-life and mode of action of these drugs in order to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects.
- pancuronium
pancuronium, corticotropin. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Coadministration of corticosteroids and neuromuscular blockers may increase risk of developing acute myopathy.
- ponesimod
ponesimod and corticotropin both increase immunosuppressive effects; risk of infection. Use Caution/Monitor. Caution if coadministered because of additive immunosuppressive effects during such therapy and in the weeks following administration. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, consider the half-life and mode of action of these drugs to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects.
- rocuronium
rocuronium, corticotropin. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Coadministration of corticosteroids and neuromuscular blockers may increase risk of developing acute myopathy.
- sodium picosulfate/magnesium oxide/anhydrous citric acid
corticotropin, sodium picosulfate/magnesium oxide/anhydrous citric acid. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May be associated with fluid and electrolyte imbalances such as hypokalemia.
- sodium sulfate/?magnesium sulfate/potassium chloride
sodium sulfate/?magnesium sulfate/potassium chloride increases toxicity of corticotropin by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Coadministration with medications that cause fluid and electrolyte abnormalities may increase the risk of adverse events of seizure, arrhythmias, and renal impairment.
- sodium sulfate/potassium sulfate/magnesium sulfate
sodium sulfate/potassium sulfate/magnesium sulfate increases toxicity of corticotropin by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Coadministration with medications that cause fluid and electrolyte abnormalities may increase the risk of adverse events of seizure, arrhythmias, and renal impairment.
- somapacitan
corticotropin decreases effects of somapacitan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Supraphysiologic glucocorticoid treatment may attenuate growth-promoting effects of growth hormone (GH). Microsomal enzyme 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11-beta-HSD-1) is required for conversion of cortisone to its active metabolite, cortisol, in hepatic and adipose tissue. GH inhibits 11-beta-HSD-1. Consequently, individuals with untreated GH deficiency have relative increases in 11-beta-HSD-1 and serum cortisol. Initiation of GH analogs may result in inhibition of 11-beta-HSD-1 and reduced serum cortisol concentrations.
- somatrogon
corticotropin decreases effects of somatrogon by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Supraphysiologic glucocorticoid treatment may attenuate growth-promoting effects of growth hormone (GH). Microsomal enzyme 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11-beta-HSD-1) is required for conversion of cortisone to its active metabolite, cortisol, in hepatic and adipose tissue. GH inhibits 11-beta-HSD-1. Consequently, individuals with untreated GH deficiency have relative increases in 11-beta-HSD-1 and serum cortisol. Initiation of GH analogs may result in inhibition of 11-beta-HSD-1 and reduced serum cortisol concentrations.
- somatropin
corticotropin decreases effects of somatropin by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Supraphysiologic glucocorticoid treatment may attenuate growth-promoting effects of growth hormone (GH). Microsomal enzyme 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11-beta-HSD-1) is required for conversion of cortisone to its active metabolite, cortisol, in hepatic and adipose tissue. GH inhibits 11-beta-HSD-1. Consequently, individuals with untreated GH deficiency have relative increases in 11-beta-HSD-1 and serum cortisol. Initiation of GH analogs may result in inhibition of 11-beta-HSD-1 and reduced serum cortisol concentrations.
- succinylcholine
succinylcholine, corticotropin. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Coadministration of corticosteroids and neuromuscular blockers may increase risk of developing acute myopathy.
- trastuzumab
trastuzumab, corticotropin. Either increases toxicity of the other by immunosuppressive effects; risk of infection. Use Caution/Monitor. Neutropenia or febrile neutropenia incidence were increased when trastuzumab was coadministered with myelosuppressive chemotherapy. .
- trastuzumab deruxtecan
trastuzumab deruxtecan, corticotropin. Either increases toxicity of the other by immunosuppressive effects; risk of infection. Use Caution/Monitor. Neutropenia or febrile neutropenia incidence were increased when trastuzumab was coadministered with myelosuppressive chemotherapy. .
- ublituximab
ublituximab and corticotropin both increase immunosuppressive effects; risk of infection. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Owing to potential additive immunosuppressive effects, consider duration of effect and mechanism of action of these therapies if coadministered
- vecuronium
vecuronium, corticotropin. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Coadministration of corticosteroids and neuromuscular blockers may increase risk of developing acute myopathy.
Minor (11)
- bendroflumethiazide
corticotropin, bendroflumethiazide. pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Possible enhanced electrolyte loss.
- bumetanide
corticotropin, bumetanide. pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Possible enhanced electrolyte loss.
- chlorothiazide
corticotropin, chlorothiazide. pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Possible enhanced electrolyte loss.
- chlorthalidone
corticotropin, chlorthalidone. pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Possible enhanced electrolyte loss.
- cyclopenthiazide
corticotropin, cyclopenthiazide. pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Possible enhanced electrolyte loss.
- ethacrynic acid
corticotropin, ethacrynic acid. pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Possible enhanced electrolyte loss.
- furosemide
corticotropin, furosemide. pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Possible enhanced electrolyte loss.
- indapamide
corticotropin, indapamide. pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Possible enhanced electrolyte loss.
- methyclothiazide
corticotropin, methyclothiazide. pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Possible enhanced electrolyte loss.
- metolazone
corticotropin, metolazone. pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Possible enhanced electrolyte loss.
- torsemide
corticotropin, torsemide. pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Possible enhanced electrolyte loss.
Adverse Effects
Frequency Not Defined
Common
- Edema, hypertension
- Psychotic disorder
- Disorder of skin
- Hyperglycemia
- Peptic ulcer disease
- Immune hypersensitivity reaction
- Muscle weakness
Serious
- Cardiomegaly, congestive heart failure, necrotizing arteritis
- Encephalitis due to human herpes simplex virus, relapse
- Decreased body growth, Children
- Pancreatitis
- Thromboembolic disorder
- Glaucoma
Postmarketing Reports
Injection site reactions
Decreased carbohydrate tolerance (infants only), hirsutism, and menstrual irregularities
Pancreatitis (adults only), abdominal distention, and ulcerative esophagitis
Headache (adults only), vertigo (adults only), subdural hematoma, intracranial hemorrhage (adults only), and reversible brain shrinkage (usually secondary to hypertension) (infants only)
Hypokalemic alkalosis (infants only) and fluid retention (including peripheral swelling)
Blood glucose increased
Anaphylaxis (anaphylactic shock, hypotension, respiratory compromise, urticaria, edema)
Necrotizing angitis (adults only), atrial fibrillation, and palpitations
Skin thinning (adults only), facial erythema, and increased sweating (adults only)
Facial erythema, and increased sweating (adults only)
Compression fractures (infants only)
Insomnia
Warnings
Contraindications
Sensitivity to porcine proteins
IV administration
Infants <2 years suspected of congenital infections
Coadministration of live or live-attenuated vaccines with immunosuppressive doses of corticotropin
Scleroderma
Osteoporosis
Systemic fungal infections
Ocular herpes simplex
Recent surgery
Active/history of peptic ulcer
CHF, HTN
Cautions
Increases susceptibility to new infection and risk of exacerbation, dissemination or reactivation of latent infections; signs and symptoms of infection may be masked
Adrenal insufficiency may occur after prolonged therapy; monitor for effects of hypothalamic-pituitary-axis suppression after stopping treatment
Cushing’s syndrome may occur after prolonged therapy; monitor for signs and symptoms
Elevated blood pressure, salt and water retention and hypokalemia may occur; monitor blood pressure and sodium and potassium levels
Do not administer live or live-attenuated vaccines to patients on immunosuppressive doses
May mask symptoms of other underlying disease/disorders; monitor patients for signs of other underlying disease/disorders that may be masked
Gastrointestinal perforation and bleeding may occur; there is a risk for gastric ulcers and bleeding; there is an increased risk of perforation in patients with certain GI disorders; signs and symptoms may be masked; monitor for signs of perforation and bleeding
Behavioral and mood disturbances may occur; may include euphoria, insomnia, mood swings, personality changes, severe depression, and psychosis; existing conditions may be aggravated; effects are reversible once therapy stopped
Symptoms of diabetes and myasthenia gravis may be worsened with treatment Monitor for cataracts, infections and glaucoma
In patients with hypothyroidism or liver cirrhosis, may result in an enhanced effect
Monitor pediatric patients on long term therapy for growth and physical development
Monitor for osteoporosis in patients on long term therapy
May have embryocidal effect in pregnancy; apprise women of potential harm to the fetus
Gel is immunogenic; limited available data suggest that a patient may develop antibodies to the gel after chronic administration and loss of endogenous ACTH and gel activity
Prolonged administration of the gel may increase risk of hypersensitivity reactions; cases of anaphylaxis have been reported in the postmarketing setting
Use in patients with sensitivity to porcine protein is contraindicated, and the possibility of sensitivity should be considered during the course of treatment should symptoms arise
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category: C
Lactation: excretion in milk unknown; use with caution
Pregnancy Categories
A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.
B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk. C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done. D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk. X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist. NA: Information not available.Pharmacology
Half-Life: 15 min
Mechanism of Action
Porcine ACTH, stimulates adrenocortical hormone production
Images
| BRAND | FORM. | UNIT PRICE | PILL IMAGE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acthar injection - | 80 unit/mL vial |  |
Copyright © 2010 First DataBank, Inc.
Patient Handout
corticotropin injection
CORTICOTROPIN - INJECTION
(KOR-ti-koe-TROE-pin)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Acthar
USES: This medication is used to treat a certain type of seizure in children (infantile spasms). This medication is also used to treat conditions such as multiple sclerosis, arthritis, lupus, eye conditions, skin/kidney/lung diseases, and immune system disorders. It decreases your immune system's response to various diseases to reduce symptoms such as swelling, pain, and allergic-type reactions. Corticotropin is a hormone.
HOW TO USE: If you are using this medication to treat infantile spasms, read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using corticotropin and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.This medication is usually given by injection into a muscle or under the skin, as directed by your doctor. For infantile spasms, this medication should be given by injection into a muscle. The dosage is based on your body size, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often than prescribed without consulting your doctor. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.If you are using this medication at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional. To warm the medication before use, remove the medication from the refrigerator and roll the vial in your hands for a few minutes. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.Do not stop using this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when this drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day.Tell your doctor if your condition gets worse.
SIDE EFFECTS: Vomiting, diarrhea, trouble sleeping, appetite changes, or pain/redness/swelling at the injection site may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.This medication may rarely make your blood sugar rise, which can cause or worsen diabetes. Tell your doctor right away if you have symptoms of high blood sugar, such as increased thirst/urination. If you already have diabetes, check your blood sugar regularly as directed and share the results with your doctor. Your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet.This medication may lower your ability to fight infections. This may make you more likely to get a serious (rarely fatal) infection or make any infection you have worse. Tell your doctor right away if you have any signs of infection (such as fever, chills, sore throat that doesn't go away, cough, white patches in the mouth).This medication may raise your blood pressure. Check your blood pressure regularly and tell your doctor if the results are high.Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: weakness, puffy face, unusual weight gain, slow wound healing, thinning skin, bone pain, menstrual period changes, mental/mood changes (such as mood swings, depression, agitation), easy bruising/bleeding, increased thirst/urination, vision problems, swelling ankles/feet/hands, fast/slow/irregular heartbeat.This drug may rarely cause serious (rarely fatal) bleeding from the stomach or intestines. If you notice any of the following unlikely but serious side effects, get medical help right away: stomach/abdominal pain that doesn't go away, black stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
PRECAUTIONS: Before using corticotropin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to pork products; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: adrenal gland problems, brittle bones (osteoporosis), current/ past infections (such as those caused by tuberculosis, threadworm, herpes, fungus), stomach/intestinal problems (such as diverticulitis, ulcer, ulcerative colitis), heart problems (such as congestive heart failure, recent heart attack), high blood pressure, eye diseases (such as cataracts, glaucoma, herpes infection of the eye), diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease, mental/mood conditions (such as psychosis, anxiety, depression), a certain skin/connective tissue disease (scleroderma), thyroid problems.This medicine may cause stomach bleeding. Daily use of alcohol while using this medicine may increase your risk for stomach bleeding. Limit alcoholic beverages. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.Corticotropin can make you more likely to get infections or may make current infections worse. Stay away from anyone who has an infection that may easily spread (such as chickenpox, COVID-19, measles, flu). Talk to your doctor if you have been exposed to an infection or for more details.Tell your health care professional that you are using corticotropin before having any immunizations, vaccinations, or skin tests. Avoid contact with people who have recently received live vaccines (such as flu vaccine inhaled through the nose).Using this medication for a long time can make it more difficult for your body to respond to physical stress. Before having surgery or emergency treatment, or if you get a serious illness/injury, tell your doctor or dentist that you are using this medication or have used this medication within the past 12 months. Tell your doctor right away if you develop unusual/extreme tiredness or weight loss. If you will be using this medication for a long time, carry a warning card or medical ID bracelet that identifies your use of this medication.Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially brittle bones (osteoporosis). Talk to your doctor about ways to prevent osteoporosis. See also Notes section.This medication may slow down a child's growth if used for a long time. Consult the doctor or pharmacist for more details. See the doctor regularly so your child's height and growth can be checked.During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. It may rarely harm an unborn baby. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Infants born to mothers who use this medication for a long time during pregnancy may have hormone problems. Tell your doctor right away if you notice symptoms such as nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, severe diarrhea, or weakness in your newborn.It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.
NOTES: Do not share this medication with others.Lab and/or medical tests (such as blood sugar/mineral levels, blood pressure, eye exams, bone density tests, height/weight measurements) should be done while you are using this medication. Consult your doctor for more details.Lifestyle changes that help reduce the risk of bone loss (osteoporosis) during long-term treatment include increasing weight-bearing exercise, stopping smoking, limiting alcohol, and eating well-balanced meals that contain adequate calcium and vitamin D. Consult your doctor for specific advice.
MISSED DOSE: It is important to get each dose of this medication as scheduled. If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist right away for a new dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store in the refrigerator. Keep all medications away from children and pets.Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
MEDICAL ALERT: Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information about enrolling in MedicAlert, call 1-888-633-4298 (US) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).
Information last revised March 2023. Copyright(c) 2023 First Databank, Inc.
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
Formulary
Adding plans allows you to compare formulary status to other drugs in the same class.
To view formulary information first create a list of plans. Your list will be saved and can be edited at any time.
Adding plans allows you to:
- View the formulary and any restrictions for each plan.
- Manage and view all your plans together – even plans in different states.
- Compare formulary status to other drugs in the same class.
- Access your plan list on any device – mobile or desktop.
