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(6/7/05 14:09)
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ACTH Information Sheet
From: phanilah (Original Message) Sent: 3/6/2005 6:13 PM
**see terminology list at the end for definitions of bolded terms**<o ></o >
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ACTH (ADRENOCORTICOTROPIC HORMONE)<o ></o >
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ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) is a hormone that controls the synthesis and release of adrenal hormones (most notably the natural corticosteroids). ACTH is produced in the pituitary gland and then released into the bloodstream to travel to the adrenal gland where it controls the activity of the adrenal gland cortex (the location natural corticosteroid production). <o ></o >
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The rate of ACTH release is controlled by a feedback loop. When bloodstream levels of adrenal hormones are high, the rate of ACTH release is low and when bloodstream levels of adrenal hormones are low, the rate of ACTH release is high. This is a very important mechanism, since it ultimately controls the synthesis of natural corticosteroids. Although ACTH stimulates the adrenal cortex to manufacture natural corticosteroids (hormones well known for their anti-inflammatory effects), ACTH has no anti-inflammatory properties of its own. <o ></o >
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Therapeutic Use<o ></o >
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Quoted from Equine Drugs and Vaccines: A Guide for Owners and Trainers, Eleanor M. Kellon, VMD in consultation with Thomas Tobin, MVB, MRCVS, 1995.<o ></o >
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“Indications: There are no specific indications for the use of ACTH per se. The indications would be the same as for the use of corticosteroids themselves. Better effect is obtained by using one of the many corticosteroid preparations, because the level of corticosteroid release obtained when using ACTH is far less than what can be achieved by using a corticosteroid preparation. ACTH IS NOT EFFECTIVE IN REVERSING SUPPRESSION OF THE ADRENAL GLAND CAUSED BY LONG-TERM USE/BUASE OF CORTICOSTEROIDS.”<o ></o >
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Although there are no specific indications for the use of ACTH, certain veterinarians may prefer to use ACTH in some instances, instead of natural or synthetic corticosteroids.
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ACTH may also be used in horses that have developed pituitary gland tumors. Since these animals do not product ACTH in normal amounts, they can suffer from metabolism problems and electrolyte imbalances.
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In addition, ACTH may also be used as a test of normal adrenal function since a horse suffering from a defective adrenal gland will not respond to ACTH injections. <o ></o >
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Performance Enhancement<o ></o >
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Like the corticosteroids, ACTH has the potential to alter mood, dependent on how it is used. Unfortunately, ACTH use has become a reality (and a concern) in the Arabian show ring, most notably as a “calming” substance for some performance events. However, there is some controversy in the fields of research and veterinary literature regarding the use of this hormone as a performance enhancer.
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Side Effects<o ></o >
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Indiscriminate use of ACTH is not advisable, since there is the potential to wear out or adversely affect the adrenal gland. In addition, severe abuse/overuse of ACTH would result in the same potential side effects as described for corticosteroids, including: immune system suppression, laminitis, reduction/suppression of the body’s own ability to produce natural corticosteroids, weakness and loss of muscle mass, and induction of a diabetes-like symptoms of increased thirst, urination and hunger.
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TERMINOLOGY LIST<o ></o >
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ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) – a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that controls the activity of the adrenal gland cortex (most notably the synthesis and release of the natural corticosteroids).
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Adrenal gland – 2 small, bean-shaped/sized glands located in front of the kidneys.
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Adrenal gland cortex – the outer portion of the adrenal gland, responsible for synthesizing hormones including the corticosteroids; different from the adrenal gland medulla, the inner portion of the adrenal gland, responsible for secreting epinephrine and nor-epinephrine.
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Adrenal hormones – hormones produced by the adrenal gland, including the corticosteroids.
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Anti-inflammatory – action to reduce swelling.
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Corticosteroids – potent anti-inflammatory drugs; a member of the steroid group.
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Natural corticosteroids – corticosteroids naturally occurring in the body (i.e. cortisol), not synthetic versions (i.e. dexamethasone).<o ></o >
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Hormones – secretions of the endocrine tissues that alters the physiological activity of the target cells in the body. <o ></o >
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Pituitary gland – a small gland located in the brain that synthesizes and releases the hormone ACTH, as well as hormones such as human growth hormone (hGH), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).<o ></o >
MB II Arabians
Colorado
American Foundation Bred
CMK/Fadjur/Azraff-Ferzon
*****
GAHeC
Colorado Arabian Horse Club
Region 8
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