a
reference to
ACTH-adrenocorticotropic
hormone-a
hormone which stimulates the growth and secretions of the adrenal glands (glands located on the upper end of each kidney). Secreted by a gland in the head
ACTH enters the bloodstream and travels to the adrenal glands, causing them to secrete
different hormones which keep various bodily functions occurring, such as
metabolism, the
body's
resistance to infection and the alleviation of the
symptoms of
allergies. A synthesized
form of
ACTH is used as a drug in treating
arthritis,
asthma and several other disorders.