Information
Metopirone, also known by its generic name, Metyrapone, is a medication primarily used in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders related to the adrenal glands. It works by inhibiting the enzyme 11-beta-hydroxylase, which is crucial in the final step of cortisol synthesis in the adrenal cortex. By blocking this enzyme, Metopirone reduces the production of cortisol, making it useful in testing the pituitary gland's ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) secretion capacity. This action is particularly beneficial in diagnosing conditions such as Cushing's syndrome, where the body produces too much cortisol. Additionally, Metopirone can be used in the management of Cushing's syndrome by controlling excessive cortisol production. Its diagnostic and therapeutic roles make it a valuable tool in endocrinology for managing and understanding adrenal gland disorders.