Tetracosactide is a hormone drug developed by the U.S. Food And Drug Administration and initially approved for treating Addison's disease.

Tetracosactide is used to diagnose Addison's disease, also known as primary adrenal insufficiency. Addison's disease is a condition in which the adrenal glands do not produce enough cortisol and, in some cases, aldosterone. This drug is primarily used as part of a diagnostic test called the ACTH stimulation test to assess adrenal function and confirm the diagnosis of Addison's disease.

Tetracosactide is administered as an injection. It can be given intramuscularly (into a muscle) or subcutaneously (under the skin). Your doctor will decide the injection dose and duration of the treatment based on your disease severity and other factors.

The side effects known to occur commonly during the treatment with Tetracosactide are skin irritation and swelling, menstrual problems, increased thirst, mood changes, fits, blurred vision, high bp, and breathlessness. Some serious side effects include severe allergic reactions, sudden stomach or back pain

weakness, fainting, loss of appetite, blood in stools, urine, vomit, inflammation of blood vessels, and pancreas inflammation.

Tetracosactide should be used with caution or avoided in individuals with certain conditions, such as hypersensitivity to this drug or related compounds, active infections or systemic fungal infections, peptic ulcer disease, asthma, tuberculosis, uncontrolled hypertension (high blood pressure), heart problems, or a history of liver, kidney disease, undergone recent intestinal surgery, and osteoporosis. This drug can lead to salt and water retention. Your doctor may recommend following a low-salt diet during the course of your treatment. Reducing salt intake can help mitigate potential fluid retention and related side effects.

If you experience an injury or require surgery during your treatment with Tetracosactide or within one year after treatment completion, it may be necessary to adjust the dosage or restart the treatment. This is important information to discuss with your physician in case such situations arise. If you are pregnant, suspecting, or planning for the pregnancy, it is generally recommended to consult your doctor for more advice before receiving this drug. For breastfeeding women, the use of this drug should also be used with caution.  Discuss the risks and benefits with your physician before starting or continuing treatment while breastfeeding.

Tetracosactide may cause dizziness or other side effects that can impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid such activities until you are certain about your response to the medication. This drug should not be used in premature babies and neonates less than one month old due to the presence of benzyl alcohol, which can potentially cause toxic and allergic reactions in this population.

1. Atnahs Pharma UK Ltd., Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on May 2020] [Accessed on 8th Sept 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.10823.pdf
2. Atnahs Pharma Australia Pty Ltd, [Revised on 18th Mar 2020] [Accessed on 8th Sept 2023], https://apps.medicines.org.au/files/iypsynad.pdf
3. Synacthen injection-Medsafe, [Revised on July 2020] [Accessed on 8th Sept 2023], https://www.medsafe.govt.nz/profs/datasheet/s/synactheninj.pdf

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice; it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.