Corticotropin – uses, health risks, and side effects at NaturalPedia.com

Wednesday, August 22, 2018 by Rhonda Johansson

Corticotropin is a prescription medicine that regulates the production of the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), an important compound in the release of cortisol, adrenaline, and noradrenaline.

It was first approved by the FDA in 1952 and is marketed as H.P. Acthar Gel by Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals. The drug is typically prescribed to treat various symptoms of different conditions including arthritis, multiple sclerosis, lupus, and bowel inflammation.

Known side effects of corticotropin

Corticotropin may mask the symptoms of other diseases. That is why it is important to inform your doctor about any other medical issue you may have. As it affects hormone production, corticotropin is not advised for patients with an underactive thyroid, diabetes, heart problems, or osteoporosis.

Corticotropin is known to reduce your body’s ability to fight off infections, especially if the drug is taken for more than a few months. Signs of an infection may include: muscle aches, rashes, chills, fever, and painful urination.

It and of itself, corticotropin may cause other unwanted side effects such as blurred vision, backache, body aches, chest pain, increased thirst, runny nose, shortness of breath, and loss of sexual desire or ability.

Body systems that may be harmed by corticotropin

Corticotropin is administered via repository injection on the upper thigh, upper arm, or stomach area. Contamination may occur if you are using a dirty needle or if the vial was exposed to toxins. Outward effects may manifest as painful rashes or severe infection. Swelling may also occur.

Once it enters the bloodstream, corticotropin may harm the adrenal glands, kidneys, or digestive system.

Corticotropin repository injections may slow down the growth and development in children and may promote osteoporosis in adults.

Food items or nutrients that may prevent corticotropin’s side effects

Stress is considered the main factor in how much our pituitary glands produce the adrenocorticotropic hormone. Corticotropin may exacerbate stress further by weakening your immune system.

Controlling stress levels through mind-body exercises and eating properly are key to preventing the drug’s side effects. ‘

That said, you may also naturally balance your hormones by:

Eating enough protein – Contrary to common knowledge, protein is needed for your body to function properly. Research suggests that eating the correct amount of protein encourages healthy hormone production.
Exercising regularly – There is a strong link between physical activity and hormonal health.
Reducing sugar intake and avoiding refined carbohydrates – Minimizing these food items greatly benefit correct hormone production.
Consuming healthy fats – Increase your intake of medium-chain triglycerides found in coconut oil and other plant oils.
Drinking green tea – Data show that compounds found in green tea can help your body produce the proper amount of hormones.

Treatments, management plans for the corticotropin’s side effects

Little information can be found on how to counter the side effects of this hormone prescription drug. It is best to speak with your medical doctor to understand what steps can be taken to limit corticotropin’s side effects.

Wellness experts, however, believe that you should look at the inherent cause of your illness. If you are suffering from an over- or underproduction of hormones, create a therapy plan involving natural solutions that will address the issue.