ACTH is an abbreviation of the chemical substance adrenocorticotropic hormone. This hormone is produced, stored, and released into the blood by the pituitary gland, a pea-sized organ that lies at the base of the brain. ACTH is necessary for the normal growth and function of the adrenal glands, two organs located on top of the kidneys. ACTH stimulates the adrenal glands to secrete various hormones, including a group called glucocorticoids. Glucocorticoids regulate the use of digested food and help the body adjust to stress.
Normally, the pituitary releases high levels of ACTH in the morning and low levels at night. Physical or mental stress or disruption of one’s normal sleeping habits can change this pattern. Disturbances in the production or release of ACTH can cause severe illness.
Physicians use ACTH in the treatment of certain illnesses and of inflammation. ACTH used for medical purposes is obtained either synthetically or from the pituitary glands of animals.
