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ACTH

ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland, located below the brain. ACTH activates glands on the kidneys (adrenal glands) to make cortisol, a substance that helps the body deal with stress.

When cortisol levels in the blood rise, the ACTH levels in a healthy person normally fall in response. When cortisol levels decrease, ACTH levels normally rise.

Author Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer Caroline S. Rhoads, MD
- Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer David C.W. Lau, MD, PhD, FRCPC
- Endocrinology & Metabolism
Last Updated August 3, 2006

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: August 03, 2006
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