List of dynamic tests
Purpose
Investigation of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal system.
Product
Metopirone®, 250 mg capsules.
Dose
Adults: 3 capsules (750 mg) every 4 hours for 24 hours (18 in all)
Protocol
- Take two blood samples at 8 a.m. on d0 (one dry tube and one EDTA tube).
- Administer the correct dose of Metopirone®: 750 mg every 4 hours for 24 hours (last dose at 4 a.m. on d1).
- Take two more blood samples at 8 a.m. on d1 (one dry tube and one EDTA tube).
Samples
Immediately cold-centrifuge both blood samples. Draw off the plasmas. Store the serum at 4°C for assaying 11- deoxycortisol (Compound S) and possibly cortisol. Freeze the EDTA plasma for the ACTH assay at -20°C as soon as possible.
Assays
ACTH, 11-deoxycortisol (Compound S) and possibly cortisol.
Side effects
This test has to be carried out in a hospital setting with close medical supervision because of the haemotoxicity of Metopirone® and the risk of acute adrenal failure. Check blood pressure every four hours.