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Solacthyl: Full Drug Profile

Medically reviewed by Min Clinic Staff | Updated: January 2026

Solacthyl - General Information

Solacthyl (ACTH or adrenocorticotropic hormone) is a polypeptide hormone produced and secreted by the pituitary gland. It is an important player in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis.

 

Pharmacology of Solacthyl

Solacthyl acts through the stimulation of cell surface ACTH receptors, which are primarily located on the adrenocortical cells. Solacthyl stimulates the cortex of the adrenal gland and boosts the synthesis of corticosteroids, mainly glucocorticoids but also sex steroids (androgens). Solacthyl is also related to the circadian rhythm in many organisms.

 

Solacthyl for patients

 

Solacthyl Interactions

Corticotropin may accentuate the electrolyte loss associated with diuretic therapy.

 

Solacthyl Contraindications

Corticotropin is contraindicated in patients with scleroderma, osteoporosis, systemic fungal infections, ocular herpes simplex, recent surgery, history of or the presence of a peptic ulcer, congestive heart failure, hypertension, or sensitivity to proteins of porcine origin.

 

Additional information about Solacthyl

Solacthyl Indication

For use as a diagnostic agent in the screening of patients presumed to have adrenocortical insufficiency.

Mechanism Of Action
As a diagnostic aid (adrenocortical function), corticotropin combines with a specific receptor on the adrenal cell plasma membrane. In patients with normal adrenocortical function, it stimulates the initial reaction involved in the synthesis of adrenal steroids (including cortisol, cortisone, weak androgenic substances, and a limited quantity of aldosterone) from cholesterol by increasing the quantity of cholesterol within the mitochondria. Solacthyl does not significantly increase serum cortisol concentrations in patients with primary adrenocortical insufficiency (Addison's disease). The mechanism of action of corticotropin in the treatment of infantile myoclonic seizures is unknown.
Generic Name
Corticotropin
Synonyms
ACTH; Adrenocorticotropic hormone; Adrenocorticotopin; Corticotrophin; Cortrophin
Drug Category
Diagnostic Agents
Drug Type
Biotech; Approved
Other Brand Names containing Corticotropin
ACTH; Acthar; H.P.Acthar Gel; Purified cortrophin gel; Exacthin; Acethropan; Acortan; Reacthin; Solacthyl; Tubex; Isactid;
Absorption
Corticotropin is rapidly absorbed following intramuscular administration; the repository dosage form is slowly absorbed over approximately 8 to 16 hours.
Half Life
About 15 minutes following intravenous administration.
Chemical Formula
C207H308N56O58S
Organisms Affected
Humans and other mammals