Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) Injectable

Giving your pet an injection might feel intimidating at first, but with practice, it becomes routine. Follow these steps for safe and stress-free injections.

Get Your Supplies Ready

1. Medication vial or pre-filled syringe
2. Alcohol swabs
3. Sterile syringe & needle (if not pre-filled)
4. Sharps container for safe needle disposal

Drawing Up the Dose (if needed)

1. Clean the vial top with an alcohol swab
2. Attach needle to syringe
3. Pull in air equal to the dose
4. Insert needle into vial, push air in
5. Draw out the correct dose
6. Tap out air bubbles

Pick the Injection Site

1. Subcutaneous (under the skin): Loose skin between shoulder blades or side
2. Intramuscular (into muscle): As directed by your vet

Prep the Area

1. Pinch a fold of skin to form a “tent” (for subcutaneous). Wipe with alcohol if recommended.

Inject the Medication

1. Hold the syringe like a pencil
2. Insert the needle into the base of the skin tent at a 45° angle
3. Push the plunger slowly to inject

After the Injection

1. Remove the needle smoothly
2. Place it immediately in the sharps container (don’t recap)
3. Pat the area and give your pet praise or a treat

Safety Tips

1. Never reuse needles
2. Always dispose of used needles properly
3. Ask your vet for help if unsure

The uses and pharmacology described below reflect the FDA-approved labeling for this active ingredient; your veterinarian determines whether and how they apply to your animal's treatment plan.

Veterinarians consider the use of adrenocorticotropic hormone primarily during the diagnostic workup for adrenal disorders, such as hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing’s disease) or hypoadrenocorticism (Addison’s disease). It is also frequently discussed in equine medicine for the evaluation of pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID). By providing a standardized stimulus to the endocrine system, a veterinarian can observe how a patient’s body regulates specific hormonal outputs under controlled conditions.

At a pharmacological level, ACTH acts by binding to specific melanocortin-2 receptors located on the surface of the adrenal cortex. This binding triggers a biological cascade that results in the synthesis and secretion of cortisol and other glucocorticoids. In a diagnostic context, the medication is administered and subsequent blood samples are taken to measure the resulting cortisol levels. This mechanism allows veterinarians to determine if the adrenal glands are over-reactive, under-reactive or functioning within an expected physiological range. Your veterinarian will determine the appropriate testing protocol based on your pet’s clinical signs and health history.

Prescription only. Use only under the direction of a licensed veterinarian. This information is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, prescribing or monitoring. Compounded drugs are not approved by the FDA for safety or effectiveness.

While adrenocorticotropic hormone is generally used for short-term diagnostic procedures, commonly observed effects can include transient site irritation or mild gastrointestinal upset. In some patients, particularly those with pre-existing adrenal insufficiency, the physiological stress of testing may warrant closer observation. It is important to inform the veterinarian if your pet has recently received any steroid medications, as these can interfere with the accuracy of the diagnostic results.

This medication is typically used with caution in patients with known hypersensitivity to porcine-derived products, as many commercial formulations are derived from these sources. Additionally, veterinarians may select alternative diagnostic paths for patients with severe systemic illness or those currently experiencing significant acute stress, which can skew hormonal readings. Always follow the specific preparation instructions provided by your veterinarian, such as fasting requirements, to ensure the most accurate diagnostic outcome. Contact your veterinarian promptly if you observe any unexpected behavioral changes or physical symptoms following the administration of ACTH.