Metyrapone

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Metyrapone
Systematic (IUPAC) name
2-methyl-1,2-dipyridin-3-yl-propan-1-one
Identifiers
CAS number	54-36-4
ATC code	V04CD01
PubChem	4174
DrugBank	APRD01111
Chemical data
Formula	C14H14N2O
Mol. mass	226.274 g/mol
Pharmacokinetic data
Bioavailability	?
Metabolism	?
Half life	1.9 ±0.7 hours.
Excretion	?
Therapeutic considerations
Pregnancy cat.	C US
Legal status
Routes	Oral

Metyrapone (Metopirone™) is a drug used in the diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency, and occasionally the treatment, of Cushing's syndrome (hypercortisolism). Metyrapone blocks cortisol synthesis by inhibiting 11B hydroxylase. this stimulates ACTH secretion, which in turn increases plasma 11- deoxycortisol levels. When excess ACTH secretion is the cause of hypercortisolism, the metyrapone test helps clarify if the source of the ACTH is pituitary or ectopic (non-pituitary).