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Standard Dose ACTH (Cosyntropin) Stimulation Test

What is an ACTH (cosyntropin) stimulation test?

Diagram of the endocrine system

The adrenal glands lie just above the kidneys and are part of the body’s endocrine system. Hormone signals from the pituitary gland cause the adrenals to release another hormone called cortisol.

The ACTH (cosyntropin) stimulation test measures how well the body’s adrenal glands work. Doctors use this test to help diagnose a condition known as primary adrenal insufficiency. This condition may occur after partial removal of the adrenal glands or other conditions that affect them.

The adrenal glands are part of the body’s endocrine system. These glands lie just above the kidneys. The glands make hormones that:

  • Balance the levels of water and salts in the body
  • Keep blood pressure normal
  • Help the body use nutrients
  • Help the body respond to stress

The adrenal glands respond to hormone signals. Hormone signals from a gland in the brain (the pituitary) cause the adrenals to release the hormone cortisol.

In the ACTH stimulation test, the care team gives your child a medicine called cosyntropin. It makes the adrenal glands release hormones, such as cortisol, into the blood. This test shows doctors how well your child’s adrenal glands function.

How to prepare for the test

Your child can eat and drink as usual before the test. Give your child their usual medicine(s) on the morning of the test unless the care team tells you not to do so. Testing lasts about an hour.

Have your child wear comfortable clothes. Bring activities such as books, games, or tablet that they can do during the test.

Contact your clinic or health care provider if your child becomes ill before the test or if your child has taken any steroids within the last month.

What to expect during the test

You can stay with your child during the test. Before the test, the care team will place an IV in your child’s arm.

  • The team will give cosyntropin through the IV.
  • The care team will draw blood samples through the IV for testing in the lab.
  • A nurse will check your child’s vital signs during the test.
  • At the end of the test, the nurse will remove the IV.

Possible risks or side effects 

Your child should not have any side effects from the test.

After the test

Your child can return to normal activities after the test.

Key points about the ACTH stimulation test

  • A standard dose cosyntropin (ACTH) stimulation test measures how well the body’s adrenal glands work.
  • Doctors use this test to help diagnose a condition known as adrenal insufficiency.
  • In this test, your child gets medicines that cause the adrenal glands to release the hormone cortisol.
  • The nurse will take blood samples to measure the amount of hormone released over time.
  • Your child should not have any side effects from the test and should be able to return to normal activities the same day.

—
Reviewed: July 2023

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