Side-by-Side Comparison · 2026

ACTH vs ACTH (Adrenocorticotropin)

ACTH vs ACTH (Adrenocorticotropin) — mechanism, half-life, dosing, and research status compared. Which is right for your protocol?

ACTH
Pituitary Hormone

Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH, corticotropin) is a 39-amino acid polypeptide produced and secreted by corticotroph cells of the anterior pituitary gland. Released in response to CRH from the hypothalamus, ACTH is the key driver of cortisol synthesis and secretion from the adr...

Calculate ACTH dose →
ACTH (Adrenocorticotropin)
Pituitary Hormone

Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is a 39-amino acid peptide produced by the anterior pituitary gland from the precursor proopiomelanocortin (POMC). It is the master regulator of adrenal cortisol production, acting via MC2R (melanocortin-2 receptor) on adrenocortical cells....

Calculate ACTH (Adrenocorticotropin) dose →
Key Parameters
Parameter ACTH ACTH (Adrenocorticotropin)
Category Pituitary Hormone Pituitary Hormone
Research FDA Approved (limited) FDA Approved
Half-Life ~10-25 minutes IV ~10-15 min (plasma)
Typical Dose 40-80 IU/day (gel); 0.25 mg tetracosactide equivalent for testing Diagnostic: 250 ug IM/IV; Therapeutic: varies by indication
Frequency Variable (gel twice daily to every other day) Diagnostic: single dose; therapeutic: daily to weekly
Route IM, SC, IV IM, IV, SC
FDA Status Repository corticotropin injection (H.P. Acthar Gel) FDA approved for multiple sclerosis, infantile spasms, and other conditions FDA approved (cosyntropin, H.P. Acthar Gel)

Calculate doses for both

Use ASCEND's free reconstitution calculator to get exact syringe draw amounts for your vial.

Calculate ACTH Calculate ACTH (Adrenocorticotropin)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ACTH and ACTH (Adrenocorticotropin)?
ACTH: Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH, corticotropin) is a 39-amino acid polypeptide produced and secreted by corticotroph cells of the anterior pituitary gland. Released in response to CRH from the hypot... ACTH (Adrenocorticotropin): Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is a 39-amino acid peptide produced by the anterior pituitary gland from the precursor proopiomelanocortin (POMC). It is the master regulator of adrenal cortisol pro...
Which has a longer half-life, ACTH or ACTH (Adrenocorticotropin)?
ACTH half-life: ~10-25 minutes IV. ACTH (Adrenocorticotropin) half-life: ~10-15 min (plasma).
Can you stack ACTH and ACTH (Adrenocorticotropin)?
ACTH and ACTH (Adrenocorticotropin) are in the same category and used together in research protocols. Always consult relevant literature and follow appropriate guidelines.

For research use only. Not medical advice. ASCEND does not conduct or endorse any specific research protocol. Always consult relevant scientific literature and regulatory guidelines.