Differences in cortisol, aldosterone and testosterone responses to ACTH 1-17 administered at two different times of day

Chronobiologia. 1987 Jan-Mar;14(1):39-46.

Abstract

The effects of 100 micrograms, i.m. of the analog ACTH 1-17 administered at 0800 and 1800 on the secretion of cortisol, aldosterone and testosterone have been studied in normal subjects: 8 male and 8 female. The group as a whole and the males had significantly greater absolute and percent increments in plasma cortisol after administration at 1800. In the females, there was only a greater percent increment in cortisol after the evening administration. The heptadecapeptide always significantly stimulated serum aldosterone, with no difference between the two times of administration. In the females, ACTH 1-17 significantly stimulated testosterone, with a more protracted secretion after the evening administration. In the males, there was always a significant testosterone decrease after the administration of the drug, with no difference between morning and evening. In conclusion, 100 micrograms i.m. of the analog ACTH 1-17 stimulates cortisol secretion more when given during the circadian nadir of plasma cortisol, but only in men. ACTH 1-17 increases testosterone in women and decreases it in men, whereas it seems to increase aldosterone secretion in both sexes.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adrenocorticotropic Hormone / administration & dosage
  • Adrenocorticotropic Hormone / analogs & derivatives*
  • Adult
  • Aldosterone / blood*
  • Circadian Rhythm
  • Drug Administration Schedule
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hydrocortisone / blood*
  • Male
  • Peptide Fragments / administration & dosage*
  • Testosterone / blood*

Substances

  • Peptide Fragments
  • Testosterone
  • Aldosterone
  • Adrenocorticotropic Hormone
  • ACTH (1-17)
  • Hydrocortisone