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A to Z of MS ACTH (adrenocorticotrophic hormone)

ACTH (adrenocorticotrophic hormone) is a hormone that occurs naturally in the human body. It stimulates production of corticosteroids by the adrenal glands, which provides an anti-inflammatory effect and suppresses immune system activity to hasten recovery from an MS relapse.

ACTH was once the favoured steroid treatment for relapses in multiple sclerosis, but since the 1980s it has generally been replaced by synthetic steroids such as methylprednisolone.

Reference

Sibley WA.
Spotlight series: pivotal trials through today's knowledge - adrenocorticotrophic hormone.
International MS Journal 2009;16(2):42-46.
abstract

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