Author: JJA
COMMON USES:
A hormone used to treat infantile spasms (a type of seizure)
HOW IT'S SUPPLIED:
Available as a suspension (40 units/milliliter, 80 units/milliliter) or powder (25 units, 40 units) for injection.
HOW IT WORKS:
While it may work by decreasing levels of corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) in the brain , scientists do not know exactly how ACTH works to lessen or prevent infantile spasms.
THINGS TO DISCUSS WITH YOUR DOCTOR:
? Given by injection only.
? Controls spasms in 60 to 70 percent of cases, reduces spasms in 20 percent, and has no effect in 10 percent.
? Side effects include high blood pressure, irritability, difficulty sleeping, increased appetite, reduced body defenses against infection, heart failure, and kidney and pancreatic stones.
? May also lower the body?s stores of potassium, calcium, zinc and vitamin C
? Blood pressure and blood levels of glucose, potassium, and sodium should be checked frequently while on this medication.
? Any infections that occur while on this medicine should be treated quickly.
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