H.P. Acthar Gel
H.P. Acthar Gel is a highly purified preparation of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) in a gelatin medium designed for prolonged release following intramuscular or subcutaneous injection. It works by stimulating the adrenal cortex to secrete cortisol and other endogenous corticoids.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosage must be highly individualized based on the patient's condition, severity, and response. For infantile spasms, the recommended regimen is 150 U/m² of body surface area (BSA) daily, divided into twice-daily intramuscular injections of 75 U/m² for 2 weeks, followed by a gradual taper to avoid adrenal insufficiency.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- BSA-based calculation (typically 75 U/m² per dose)
- Frequency
- Twice daily (intramuscularly)
- Tracking Notes
- Dosing for infantile spasms is determined strictly by Body Surface Area (BSA), not body weight. Must be prescribed and calculated by a specialist.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- BSA-based calculation (typically 75 U/m² per dose)
- Frequency
- Twice daily (intramuscularly)
- Tracking Notes
- Monitor closely for side effects including hypertension, infections, and electrolyte imbalances.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- BSA-based calculation (typically 75 U/m² per dose)
- Frequency
- Twice daily (intramuscularly)
- Tracking Notes
- Calculate exact BSA (m²) to determine correct unit dose. Do not base dose purely on weight brackets.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- BSA-based calculation (typically 75 U/m² per dose)
- Frequency
- Twice daily (intramuscularly)
- Tracking Notes
- Ensure routine blood pressure and potassium monitoring during therapy.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- BSA-based calculation (typically 75 U/m² per dose)
- Frequency
- Twice daily (intramuscularly)
- Tracking Notes
- Gradual taper is required after the standard 2-week treatment course to prevent adrenal suppression.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | BSA-based calculation (typically 75 U/m² per dose) | Twice daily (intramuscularly) | Dosing for infantile spasms is determined strictly by Body Surface Area (BSA), not body weight. Must be prescribed and calculated by a specialist. |
| 5-7 kg | BSA-based calculation (typically 75 U/m² per dose) | Twice daily (intramuscularly) | Monitor closely for side effects including hypertension, infections, and electrolyte imbalances. |
| 8-10 kg | BSA-based calculation (typically 75 U/m² per dose) | Twice daily (intramuscularly) | Calculate exact BSA (m²) to determine correct unit dose. Do not base dose purely on weight brackets. |
| 11-15 kg | BSA-based calculation (typically 75 U/m² per dose) | Twice daily (intramuscularly) | Ensure routine blood pressure and potassium monitoring during therapy. |
| 16-20 kg | BSA-based calculation (typically 75 U/m² per dose) | Twice daily (intramuscularly) | Gradual taper is required after the standard 2-week treatment course to prevent adrenal suppression. |
Formulation
Purpose
Treatment of infantile spasms in infants and children under 2 years of age, acute exacerbations of multiple sclerosis in adults, and management of various rheumatic, collagen, dermatologic, allergic, ophthalmic, and respiratory diseases.
Generic Name
Repository CorticotropinScheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.