Drug information of corticorelin

Synthetic ovine corticotropin-releasing hormone; aids the clinician in differentiating between the causes of ACTH-dependent hypercortisolism (pituitary Vs ectopic) by measuring plasma ACTH and cortisol response to corticotropin-releasing hormone

Onset of ACTH Release: 2 min

ACTH Release Peak Plasma Time: 15-60 min

Onset of Cortisol Release: 10 min

Cortisol Release Peak Plasma Time: 60-120 min

Cushing Syndrome Differential Diagnosis

1 mcg/kg IV infused over 30-60 seconds is the lowest dose that may produce maximal cortisol response and significant (perhaps sub-maximal) ACTH responses  

None listed in the manufacturer's label

Flushing of face, neck, and upper chest

Dyspnea

Dizziness

Asystole

Seizure

Tachycardia

Xerostomia

Vomiting

>1 mcg/kg not recommended, more adverse events but no benefit

Plasma ACTH response to corticorelin injection is inhibited or blunted in normal subjects pretreated with dexamethasone; use of heparin solution to maintain IV;

 possible interaction between corticorelin and heparin associated with major hypotensive reaction reported after corticorelin administration

Draw ACTH baseline 15 minutes before dose (ie, average of 2 venous blood samples)

Draw postdose blood samples at 15, 30, and 60 minutes

Corticorelin ovine triflutate is injected into a vein through an IV. A healthcare provider will give you this injection in a hospital or clinic setting