Repository Corticotropin
Drug Name(s): Acthar Gel, Purified Cortrophin Gel
Class: Hormones
Both products are injectable medications used to treat psoriatic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, lupus and juvenile idiopathic arthritis. They are typically used as short-term, add-on treatment during disease flares, or as maintenance therapy when symptoms are not well controlled by other medications.
Purified Cortrophin Gel is also used to treat acute gout, usually as short-term add-on therapy when gout is not well controlled.
These medicines work by helping your body make hormones that reduce inflammation. Acthar Gel and Purified Cortrophin Gel contain the same active ingredient, but have some different uses, doses and potential side effects. They should not be used interchangeably.
Dosage
Form(s): Prefilled syringe for self-injection; also available in a vial with syringes
Injections are typically given every 1 to 3 days; dosages vary by patient and disease.
Patients must be evaluated for appropriate dosage before starting.
Special Instructions
For Purified Cortrophin Injection, patients must first be tested for responsiveness.
For both products, medication vials must be refrigerated. Warm before injection by rolling between hands; do not heat in microwave or stove. Inject as instructed by your healthcare professional.
Do not stop medication abruptly; dosage must be reduced gradually.
Potential Side Effects
Infection, Cushing syndrome or adrenal insufficiency, elevated blood pressure, masking of other conditions, GI bleeding, behavior/mood disturbances, vision problems, bone density loss, immune response against the drug
Be Aware
Taking this medication too often or for too long may cause serious and long-lasting side effects.
Do not take these medications if you have had recent surgery or have conditions such as scleroderma, osteoporosis, congestive heart failure, hypertension, adrenocortical insufficiency or adrenocortical hyperfunction.
Talk to your doctor if you are or may become pregnant or are breastfeeding.
Check with your doctor before receiving vaccinations while on this medication.
