Comparative Pharmacology
Head-to-head clinical analysis: ACTHAR versus CORTROPHIN ZINC.
Peer-Reviewed Evidence
Head-to-head clinical analysis: ACTHAR versus CORTROPHIN ZINC.
ACTHAR vs CORTROPHIN-ZINC
Comparing the clinical profiles, pharmacokinetic behaviors, and safety indices of these two therapeutic agents.
ACTHAR (repository corticotropin injection) is a purified adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) analogue that stimulates the adrenal cortex to release cortisol, corticosterone, and aldosterone. It also has glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid effects, and is thought to exert anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects through melanocortin receptor activation, independent of adrenal steroid production.
Corticotropin (ACTH) stimulates the adrenal cortex to release glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, and androgens. In gel formulation, zinc complex prolongs absorption, providing sustained adrenocortical stimulation.
ACTHAR (repository corticotropin injection) 80 U/mL; for acute exacerbation of multiple sclerosis: 80-120 U IM daily for 2-3 weeks. For infantile spasms: 150 U/m² IM daily divided twice daily for 2 weeks, then taper.
40-80 units subcutaneously or intramuscularly every 24-72 hours, titrated to individual patient response.
None Documented
None Documented
15-20 minutes (intravenous); clinical duration longer due to sustained adrenal stimulation.
Terminal half-life: 16-24 hours; clinical context: prolonged due to zinc complex, allows once-daily dosing
Primarily renal; <5% unchanged in urine; extensive metabolism via proteolysis.
Renal: ~90% as metabolites; biliary/fecal: ~10%
Category C
Category C
Corticotropin
Corticotropin