Patient FAQs

What is H.P. Acthar® Gel?

H.P. Acthar Gel, or Acthar, is one of the first effective medications approved by the FDA for the treatment of acute exacerbations in patients with MS. Acthar is a prescription medication containing the hormone adrenocorticotropin ("a-DRE-no-cor-ti-co-tro-pin"), also known as ACTH.

How do I prepare Acthar for use?

Acthar is ready to use. There is nothing to mix. It is important, however, that you allow the gel to become warmed to body temperature (98.6°F or 37°C) and liquefied before use. To help warm the vial, roll it between the palms of your hands for a few minutes.

How should I store Acthar?

Store Acthar in the refrigerator between 36°-46°F (2°-8°C). Acthar should be warmed to room temperature before using. Caution: Do not over pressurize the vial prior to withdrawing the product.

How does Acthar work?

Acthar is a hormone and has been proven to speed recovery from MS exacerbations. It works by helping the body produce natural steroid hormones to reduce inflammation.

Who should not use Acthar?

Acthar should not be used in patients with scleroderma, osteoporosis, systemic fungal infections, ocular herpes simplex, recent surgery, history of or the presence of a peptic ulcer, congestive heart failure, hypertension, or sensitivity to proteins of porcine origin. If you have one of these conditions, be sure to speak with your doctor before beginning treatment with Acthar.

What are the possible side effects of Acthar?

Common adverse reactions associated with the use of H.P. Acthar Gel include: diarrhea, fluid retention, headache, hirsutism, increased sweating, injection site reaction, mood alteration, palpitations, skin reactions, tachycardia, and vertigo. The following potentially serious adverse reactions may also occur: abscess, anaphylaxis, congestive heart failure, convulsions, Cushingoid state, electrolyte disturbances, glucose intolerance, hypertension, impaired wound healing, increased intraocular pressure, muscle weakness, osteoporosis, pancreatitis, peptic ulcer, posterior subcapsular cataracts, psychotic state, severe allergic reaction, suppression of growth in children, and ulcerative esophagitis.

Ask your doctor about the side effects that may occur during treatment. Be sure to have a clear understanding of when to seek medical help and whom to call in case of an emergency. If at any time you have questions about any side effects from Acthar, contact your doctor.

Are there special dietary recommendations for someone receiving Acthar therapy?

Because Acthar may cause elevation of blood pressure, salt and water retention, and increased excretion of potassium and calcium, in some patients, dietary salt restriction and potassium supplementation may be necessary. Please discuss dietary adjustments with your doctor.

Are there possible drug interactions associated with Acthar therapy?

Acthar may increase the loss of electrolytes in patients treated with diuretic drugs. Other drug interactions are possible. Make sure you inform your doctor if you are being treated with diuretic drugs or any other medications.

What is the right dose?

Your doctor will need to determine the right dose and provide instructions on when and how often to inject Acthar.

If symptoms improve, can I stop therapy?

It is important to complete the full course of Acthar therapy as instructed by your doctor. Sudden withdrawal after prolonged use may lead to recurrent symptoms that make it difficult to stop therapy. Discuss any discontinuation of therapy with your doctor.

Can pregnant women receive Acthar therapy?

Acthar has not been studied in pregnant women and its effects on unborn babies are not known. If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, you should tell your doctor before using Acthar. Acthar should only be used during pregnancy if the benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Can nursing mothers receive Acthar therapy?

Since it is not known whether Acthar is excreted in nursing milk, the doctor may recommend that the nursing mother either discontinue nursing or discontinue therapy.

Can Acthar be used in children?

Acthar is used in children. However, prolonged use of Acthar in children will inhibit skeletal growth. If use is necessary, it should be given intermittently and the child carefully observed.

What are the ingredients in Acthar?

Active ingredient: adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH, corticotropin).

Inactive ingredients: 16% gelatin. Also contains 0.5% phenol, not more than 0.1% cysteine (added), sodium hydroxide and/or acetic acid to adjust pH, and water for injection, q.s.