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.